Today, the Birds Have It!

Setting out under overcast skies, the MV Seasmoke passengers enjoyed a light breeze and barely ruffled waters that by early afternoon were sparkling in the sun.

What a day for sighting bird life! Rhinoceros Auklet, Pigeon Guillemot, Rock Sandpiper, Common Murre were swimming, diving and fishing in their natural habitat in the Stephanson group of islands, and on the Vancouver Island shore, a lone Bald Eagle was surveying his kingdom from high up in a tree. A brand new Eagle’s nest was spotted near Orca Lab at Hanson Island, with about six to eight eagles nearby.

Also in the vicinity, to the delight of passengers, a lone Humpback, a frequent visitor identified as Stripe was seen cruising in the water, shallow diving, then taking that final plunge and waving at onlookers with his magnificent fluke.

Dall’s Porpoises, ever playful and swift swimming, bobbed in and out of the waves in Weynton Passage and in the waters near Orca Lab. In this same place, large, golden brown Stellar sea lions were viewed swimming along.

Adorable seal pups are still sighted with the adult Harbour seals in the Stephanson group of islands, being looked after until it’s time for them to fend for themselves.

Adults and children alike enjoyed their trip out into Blackfish Sound and the sheltered passages nearby that harbour so much wildlife, from waterfowl, to sandpipers, to seals, sea lions, whales, porpoises and more!