Magnificent Wildlife on a Mission

After a steaming hot day yesterday, we were not surprised to hear the morning BC Ferries fog horn sound just as it pulled away from the terminal at 640am this morning. It was thick fog, the kind that you can hardly see your outstretched hand in front of you. We decided to delay our departure to give some time for the fog to burn off. Although we set off in patchy fog, we soon found clear areas where the sun had successfully warmed the cool, misty air giving us a clear horizon to begin our search for wildlife.

Today was filled with nature’s wonders. For thirty minutes we observed a large group of Pacific White-sided dolphins which literally dashed through the water, leaping forward at high speed obviously trying to get somewhere. They continued into a narrow passage creating a scene of white water as they galloped on.

This dolphin parade led us to an area where at least five Humpbacks foraged. With the engine switched off, and the remains of wispy fog still lingered in the air, the large whale blows seemed louder and their raised broad flukes appeared larger. It was breathtaking to suddenly be in absolute silence, now that all the whales had synchronized their deep dive, leaving the surface of the sea empty.

A Stellar Sea lion stole the show when, like the dolphins, leaped through the air in forward motion in pursuit of a salmon. We watched in awe as this magnificent animal chased down its prey only to lose it at the last minute. It was entertaining for us, perhaps frustrating for the animal who just lost its lunch.

Bald Eagles were dotted along the shore, perched high up on their cedar branch stands. They seem to sternly watch over the ocean as though it is their kingdom, when they to are simply searching for food.

It was a dynamic day aboard Seasmoke.