KatherineKei on DeviantArthttps://www.deviantart.com/katherinekei/art/The-Whale-Named-Stumpy-570423905KatherineKei

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The Whale Named Stumpy

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Commission for A-Rusty-Trekkie / stumpyx163.tumblr.com

I got a chance to honor one of the most "special" killer whales - Stumpy (X163). Stumpy has an injury to the dorsal fin and what is either an injury or possibly a structural spinal deformity, in the caudal peduncle area. Regardless of the origin of the spinal deformity, Stumpy appears to be physically impaired and does not perform the exact same swimming activity as the accompanying and healthy orcas. Stumpy is now 17 years old. Given that this animal has not yet ‘sprouted’ a larger dorsal fin, it is probable that it is a female.

Despite its physical spinal deformity this orca has managed to survive. Although it can clearly keep up with the group to some degree, it also has limitations. From underwater images of Stumpy, one can clearly see that she requires two tail strokes, compared to a healthy orca’s single tail stroke, when swimming. Stumpy is also required to stabilise her body movements by the use of her pectoral flippers. Stenerson & Similä (2004) stated that Stumpy had been in the company of, and provisioned by, no less than five different groups. In 2005 she was observed participating in the search of and catching of fish but she was seen often close to a big male, who may have been provisioning her or providing her with protection. 

As for the work itself, it was interesting and very challening as we have not so many images of Stumpy and the markings are an important part of the drawing. This has taken 9 hours to be done.

I hope you like it :) (Smile)


Please, take in mind, that everything in this gallery (photos, drawings) are not stock images! Please, don't use, change or distribute the image without my permission!
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