Whale Watching Report

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Going the Extra 20 Miles!

Tightly Grouped
Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes

Waking Up Spyhop
Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes
AM: "Today we went the extra 20 miles to find Orcas, which lead us deep into the Canadian Gulf Islands. The journey to the whales produced numerous Bald Eagles, Harbor Seals, Harbor Porpoise and various sea birds. We found members of all three pods just waking up as they neared Active Pass. Our timing couldn't have been more perfect as they began taillobing, spyhopping and breaching after sleeping for the previous hour!"

Down the Hatch! (Harbor Seal eating a Salmon)
Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes


Egg Yoke Jelly
Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes


Alexis (L12) Draped in Bull Kelp
Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes

Skana (L79) Making Mist
Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes

PM: "Awaiting us at the dock were some very patient and understanding passengers awaiting their turn at experiencing Orcas in the San Juans. During our return to the dock on the morning trip we got word that a group of Orcas were moving east from the Pacific Ocean back into the San Juans. Apparently not all members of L pod were present up at Active Pass for we found Alexis (L12), Skana (L79), Solstice (L89) and Spirit (L22) near False Bay! Spread out the four whales moved near the shoreline and then began moving off shore. After making a few surfacing the whales disappeared for a longer downtime. Not knowing where they may show up we cut the engines - then without warning the two ladies, Spirit & Alexis made a surprise visit right next to the boat! Alexis even had Bull Kelp draped across her back as she gracefully reentered the water. The sound of their exhalations caused many to jump as their location shocked us all. We also got great looks at Spirit's oldest son, Skana. Allowing a size comparison between males & females." - Naturalist Kate Janes

posted by Island Adventures Whale Report @ 11:08 PM   0 Comments

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