Chapter 1: How to Capture a Whale

De: Bonnie Swift

Narrado por: Bonnie Swift

Tokitae’s capture in 1970 was one of the most infamous orca round-ups in history. Seven calves were taken, and five whales drowned. The public outcry following this capture helped put an end to the capture era in Washington State. Of those seven calves who were taken, Tokitae is the last survivor.©2021 Bonnie Swift Productions, LLC (P)2021 Audible Originals, LLC

Wow

I grew up in south Florida and have seen Lolita as well as all the orcas at Seaworld Orlando many times. I now have lived in Alaska for the past 3 years (took a job transfer cause it was always my dream to see orcas in the wild) and now that I have seen lots of orcas in the wild my opinion on captivity is forever changed. I appreciate the aquariums for igniting that love in my childhood heart, but hearing how it all started back in the 60s and 70s is so heartbreaking, I was in tears many times listening to this.

Heart wrenching truth to fight for

I desperately hope she can be freed soon. Everyone needs to hear her story.

Excellent interesting podcast

Bonnie Swift introduces a part of the world that is new to me while presenting the heartbreaking threat to the lives of the “killer” whale. She uses a mix of interviews and narration that places the listener at the scene as trappers separate baby whales from their mothers as the mothers try desperately to hold onto their babes. I very much look forward to hearing all episodes of the podcast and recommend it to anyone interested in issues related to saving our natural resources and beauty.

So so beautiful!

Hooked from the first word, I can’t wait for the whole series. Such a beautiful story, expertly told, about a subject so dear to my heart. Thank you!

Enthralling, mystical tale brings me to tears

I don't think I can fully put into words how moved I am listening to the story of Tokitae, a story so beautifully written and presented, with the right music and pace--I will revisit it many times. And weaving all the strands together are the voices of the witnesses to her capture, the scientist studying the current whales that visit the inlet, and the words of the Lummi tribe's chief, "What happens to her, happens to all of us." Tokitae comes to him in dreams, asking to be brought home to her pod after fifty-one non-stop years of performing in Florida in a small tank. This very touching true story makes me want to keep listening to all the chapters. It is a heartfelt reminder that we are connected to the natural world.