What a wonderful day to be out cruising on the water where even the cooling effect of the ocean was no match for today’s heat-wave. We headed out this morning passing near to the islands viewing Harbour Seals: mothers and their pup’s hauled out, some Stellar Sea Lions were fishing in the kelp and small groups of Dall’s Porpoises could be seen intent on feeding.
A large blow was sighted in the distance near to Flower Island in Blackfish Sound and as we drew closer it was identified as BCZ0004 or ‘Stripe’ as it is commonly called. The orcas who have been in the area: A12, A37, A46 and including A11, A56 and A73 who came into Johnstone Strait yesterday were all reported to the far east this morning. Other species seen today: Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, White-winged and Surf Scoters, Belted Kingfishers and Bald Eagles ++ including an Eaglet in the nest. It was magical cruising home through the island waterways observing sparkling kelp forests dancing in the current as we went by them. The colourful scenery today was absolutely exquisite and a joy to behold.