Sights and Sounds of Orca

The images our skipper Jon took on the tour this afternoon reflected the perfection of the adventure that was experienced by our visitors. The calm bluish grey ocean and sky made for an impressive backdrop to the stunning colouration of our black and white northern resident local whales.

How grateful we are that these families have chosen this area as their summer feeding, foraging and socializing ground. The Orca’s were once again close to home which made for a generous few hours where we were blessed by their company. Within their matrillineal pods they were spread right across Johnstone Strait where they traveled and foraged, often side by side their relations. The pods were vocal this afternoon. With the underway microphone we were able to listen to them literally talking to each other. Their high-pitched calls gave us goosebumps as we were witness to their in depth social complexity this specie is known for.

Each pod had at least one individual that had a dorsal fin with a unique notch/scar which gave us the chance to identify the pods. They were the same family groups that were sighted yesterday which makes us believe that there is enough salmon to keep them here. At one stage another dolphin specie joined in the fun as Pacific White-sided dolphins were seen swimming among the Orca. At times these much smaller dolphins can behave around the whales, in a way that appears rather pesky.

Our gentle giant Humpbacks also foraged near by, their deep dives giving our guests a remarkable opportunity to witness their fluke rising high out of the sea and the ocean that cascaded from the ascended tail.

Bait balls were seen throughout the afternoon where Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres and various Gulls took part in a feeding frenzy. All our sightings gave the impression that food is abundant at this present time. It is a relief to know that all our creatures both small and big are filling their stomachs this summer.

As we drift into a new month, a favourite of locals, we can’t help but get excited about what September will bring. Last evening right from our office window a pod of Orca’s passed closely by. How lucky we are to have such a visit from a magnificent animal.