Bare Facts: Male ~ Born est.1970 ~ Mother Tsitika ~ Father Unknown ~ Children Unknown ~ ID Very curved fin; thin fin; white, curved saddle

Blackney was born around 1970, most likely to Tsitika. When the study started in 1973, he was a small calf tucked in next to Tsitika, so we're reasonably certain that's who his mom is, and how old he is. He's easily recognizable because his fin has inherited the deep curve of the family. Even though males don't usually have curved fins, his bends back slightly. As he grows older, he has recently developed a wave in his fin which gets more pronounced every year. Also, like the other males in the family, he has a solid saddle patch.

For five years, Blackney spent most of his time playing with his brother Strider. Then Tsitika gave birth to another male, Pointer, and the three brothers played together. 1984 and 1989 brought two sisters.
In 1993, Tsitika had a calf that may have been born still-born, or died minutes after its birth. After the death, Blackney suddenly broke away from the group and pushed his face against a cliff face. When he returned, the whole family disappeared. Alexandra Morton, the scientist who witnessed the whole thing, suspected Blackney may have 'buried' the calf in the cliff.

In 1999, Blackney gained a niece/nephew, and lost his oldest brother, Strider. When Strider died, Blackney took up his role at Tsitika's side. While the boys always share duty with Tsitika, Blackney is now hardly ever separated from his mother.

Blackney's now 35, and healthy and happy.