A Day of the Eagle

Every day is different when you embark on a journey in search of whales and wildlife, and the gems we discovered during our afternoon tour did not disappoint.

Shortly after we left the dock this afternoon, it was reported that the orcas who had been in the vicinity had travelled east and into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. This is the one area where we simply have to let the whales be as it is protected. Even kayakers can not enter because it is where the whales gather in their family groups to rub on the smooth pebbled stones that make up this watershed. Since they were out of reach we decided to head into Blackfish Sound in search of Humpback whales.

At least four Humpbacks were sighted, one in particular was easy to identify. Usually we look at the markings on the underside of the fluke, but this individual has part of its dorsal fin missing.

Numerous times the Humbpacks dove deep so the arch of its back made it easy to view. The whales are foraging for food and their favourite in our area is juvenile herring.

Meandering through the narrow passageways created opportunities to see the wonders of this region. It was the day of the eagle as numerous eagles were seen soaring above and keeping guard of their forest haven. One individual perched in its kingdom of trees, had their wings outstretched in order to dry them, perhaps dampened after hunting for salmon.

A black-tailed deer displayed its balance and agility as it maneuvered on rocks, having just nibbled on the salty seaweed at the waters edge. Harbour seals followed us discreetly and Stellar seal lions added to our adventure.

With a full afternoon and our camera cards ‘chocker’ it was time to head back home for a tranquil evening in Northern Vancouver Island.