Springer finds 'kindred spirit'

Springer, the orphaned killer whale, may have found a friend among adult orcas off northern Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Aquarium's Lance Barrett-Lennard says Springer has been spending time with about 70 whales of ``A'' pod, the same group scientists believe Springer belonged to before her mother died.

He says Springer was spotted swimming side by side with a 16-year-old female, who was also orphaned.

Barrett-Lennard says the two would make good companions.

Springer was released off Vancouver Island last Sunday after being moved from a holding pen the Seattle area. She was captured in June when marine biologists became concerned about her health.