Scientists in Canada say the government should give the Mowachaht-Muchalaht First Nation a greater role in the future of an orca that tribal members believe is the spiritual embodiment of a late tribal chief.

Tribal members want to lead the orca, named Tsux'iit, back to his family's pod via their own boats. The government had rejected the proposal as too risky but scientists say it should be considered.

The government instead chose to capture the killer whale, whom they call Luna. Tribal members responded by blocking the capture. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans gave up last week and says it is working with the First Nation to work out an agreement.

Get the Story:
Luna's rescue turns into a tug of war (The Seattle Post-Intelligencer 7/1)

Relevant Links:
Mowachaht Muchalaht First Nation - http://www.yuquot.ca
Reunite Luna, pro-move campaign - http://www.reuniteluna.com

Related Stories:
First Nation wants official fired over orca move (6/25)
First Nation boaters prevent capture of killer whale (6/24)
First Nation boaters try again to stop capture of whale (6/23)
Scientists delay capture of orca for First Nation (6/21)
First Nation continues to sing to killer whale (6/18)
British Columbia First Nations thwart move of orca (6/17)