Pacific White Sided Dolphins and Whale Updates

May 25:
Hi.  I am not sure how to report a sighting.
I saw a group of 6 to 8 dolphins in front of Beach Gardens at 6:05 pm today.  They were slowly heading south along the mainland coast.  They were swimming in various directions as if they were feeding.
Bob

May 25:

4:45 pm around 12 Pacific White Sided Dolphins were very playful as they worked their way North-West in Discovery Passage, by Separation Head.

From Garry, Aboriginal Journeys

May 24:

2 pm approximately 30 Pacific White Sided Dolphins in Frederick Arm playing and doing some high speed foraging. The small herring were flying out of the water as the Dolphins picked them off.

From Jack, Campbell River Whale Watching

May 24:

Some early morning unconfirmed reports of Pacific White Sided Dolphins by Cape Mudge Southbound and by Jimmy Judd Island Northbound as well as some Dalls Porpoises in Bute Inlet.

It was interesting that there were Tufted Puffins in Haro Strait, WA on May 20th. I'm not sure if that is something unusual, I'm used to them being up around the Queen Charlotte Islands. Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

The following four submissions are from Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network in the US:

May 23

May 23 around  10:00am, a single gray whale was heading north, leisurely feeding just off Tulalip Shores. Then about 5:00 pm the whale seemed to return, heading south, again leisurely feeding along the shore.  Picnic at Spee-be-dah?

 Jim and Vicki Mattson, Tulalip Shores, WA

 May 22

At 12:52 pm Victoria Clipper III just left 4 transients, 2 mom and calf pairs, heading west-ish at Middle Bank, Haro Strait. 

Stephanie Raymond, Victoria Clipper

May 22   

On the late afternoon trip on Maya's Westside Charters we encountered T10, T10B, T10C, T26 and T26A as they traveled south in Haro Strait.  We left them west of Kelp Reef traveling southwest. 

Jeanne Hyde, San Juan Island, WA 

May 20

May 20th, the 12.15pm Ocean Magic out of Victoria was able to locate two elusive Minke Whales at Hein Bank (Haro Strait) around 1.30pm. They were creating fun for the surface feeding gulls and Alcids. Certainly they were taking long dives and surfacing in different directions all the time. Quite the challenge, but it was nice to see possibly a mother and a youngster.Wonderful to see the sun for a change in these parts and enjoy the wildlife once again.

Marie, Orca-Magic. 'Prince of Whales'. Victoria BC
The above four reports submitted by Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network

Transient Orca Report, Photos and Porpoises

May 23: 
10 am The 8 to 10 Transient Orca were slowly working their way between Powell River and Texada Island - still on a slow roll Southward. So, headed out with neighbour Steve G. to locate them. They did a number of long dives and continued their slow travel Southward in a zig zag pattern. We stayed with them until we were almost across from Smuggler Cove, just above Secret Cove - a long way down from Powell River, and even longer for Jen from Campbell River Whale Watching who arrived on scene with a tour around 2:30 pm. Jen left them around 3:45 pm spread out and still working their way towards the Southern end of Texada.
Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Three Photos below are courtesy Steve Grover May 23, 2011

May 23:
On getting back into the harbour in Powell River, a local who had been out fishing told me he had seen a couple of Porpoises around 2 pm that looked black, so the assumption is Dalls Porpoises, by Grant's Reef on the South end of Savary Island. Susan MacKay

May 23:
9 am 6 Pacific White Sided Dolphins were in the Yuculta Rapids area by Jimmy Judd Island.
Relayed over the radio from Aaron (Eagle Master)

May 23:
8:15 am Around 10 Orca spotted by Harwood Island across from Powell River travelling in a Southerly, then Westerly direction.
From Steve G.

May 22:
9 pm 2 Orca were seen in the Surge Narrows area (Beazely Pass). No direction.
Passed on from Jack, Campbell River Whale Watching

Transient Orca and Dolphins Update

All day long, the same group of Transient Orca which included T019B T018 and T023 were almost down to Powell River. Although I scanned during the day, not a blow, splash or dorsal was spotted off Powell Rive. The closest they got was around Grant's Reef, just South of Sentry Shoal. This morning the Whale Watching boats caught up with them just inside Discovery Channel by Cape Mudge. So they didn't go very far. They did take a couple of Sea Lions close to Mittlenatch Island.
Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC


May 22:
7 am first report of around 10 Orca by Sentry Shoal thought to be headed Southward.

9 am Discovery Channel by Duncan Bay 5 Orca were reported.
7 Orca reported Southbound close to Cape Mudge around the same time.
These reports from Jack, Campbell River Whale Watching, Jeff "FogHorn" (I believe he's in one of the Oak Bay Hurricane boats), and Garry, Aboriginal Journeys

Jeff picked 5 of them up by the can buoy off Mudge at 9:30 am slowly heading towards Mittlenatch Island down the Strait.
By the time Aaron got out, they were closer to Hernando Island at 11:30 am where they were splashing and being quite active. They continued their very slow movement Southward.
2:20 pm the count was 6 Transients between Mittlenatch and Sentry Shoal slowly aiming towards Rebecca Rocks, just off Powell River. They seemed to stay in that general area with tail lobs, breaches and general splashes after another kill. Garry's was the last whale watching boat to leave them there.

May 21:
The approximately 80 Pacific White Sided Dolphins were reported in Bute Inlet around 7:30 to 8 pm.
From Nick T.

Photos of Whales and Dolphins plus Updates May 21

Today was incredibly quiet after yesterday's excitement of Transient Orcas and Pacific White Sided Dolphins within minutes of each other. It was certainly not through lack of looking by all the whale watching boats out there. There was an unconfirmed report that the Orca went into Desolation Sound last night, and the Dolphins were headed up Johnstone Strait.

May 21:
There was one report of briefly seeing 4 to 6 Dalls Porpoises around 4 pm in Calm Channel just outside Hole in the Wall. The report was relayed over the radio from someone operating the tour boat "Tenacious 3" through AJ who was running a tour boat today rather than water taxi. Sorry - don't have the links for these tour companies for you today. Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

May 21: 
Hi Susan, I especially like the Blog today! (20th report) Probably because I saw the Orca and Dolphins too!  I was down to the beach below us this afternoon and only saw 1 harbour seal.  The tide was especially low and I was photographing the pitted First Nations rocks and canoe runs still visible.  A man told me that about 12 dolphins passed by headed north at about 3:00pm.  Maybe trying to catch-up with yesterday's group.  We do indeed live in a beautiful part of the world!  Have a great weekend. Steve
 

Photos below of the Pacific White Sided Dolphins really show just how close they ran to the motor with my boat. I need to mention to everyone that one quick movement, and these animals would have been hurt. I am always very careful around any whales or dolphins.

If you have them wake or bow ride, please be careful not to make any sudden movements or quick changes is speed or direction. These dolphins rode with me for around twenty minutes and I believe they did know the boat and that I was not making any sudden movements.

The three photos below are courtesy of John and Joan Treen who came out on the boat with me:

These Dolphins were playing tag with the skiff - I swear they were touching it at times. At one point there were around 20 of them wake riding from tight to the boat and back.
Susan MacKay - Whales and Dolphins BC

From Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network farther South:
J pod was in Active Pass just outside Victoria, BC on May 19th. and  in Friday Harbour today heading NW.
Bigger news is:

May 21

Marie at Washington State Ferries called at 3:36 to say a ferry captain reported he was surrounded by orcas about a mile east of Turn Island. (I'm assuming this Turn Island is the one just in Johnstone Strait by Chatham Point on the Ferry route up coast - Susan)

I hope to resolve the issue with my photos of the Orca before this goes out tonight - for whatever reason, this computer won't allow me to save them small enough so the blog won't reject sending them out. Susan

Killer Whales - Dolphins and Porpoises May 20

This report is not last to first but covers today. It's in time sequence, so do read on:

What a perfect day to be on the water! Flat calm and sunny....and whales and dolphins and porpoises to boot!

9 am I heard a report of a "couple" of Dalls Porpoises at the bottom of Cape Mudge, Quadra Island - heard over the radio from the other Aaron - sorry, not sure of a link to his web site. No direction or numbers.

At 11 am I received a call from John and Joan T. that we had around 5 Orca out in front of Powell River. Funny, I had just put the binoculars down and never saw a thing! Quickly grabbing cameras and gear, I was off with them to find the whales. Great to get out on the water!

11:30 am Found the approximately 10 Transient (meat eating) Orca between Powell River and Harwood Island. They were doing long dives, anywhere from 5 to 8 minutes, heading Northward in a somewhat zig zag pattern. Dropped the hydrophone, but there were no vocals. Suddenly it appeared that there were between 12 to 16 whales in a couple of groups between Harwood and just south of Atrevida Reef.

12:54 pm One lone Porpoise, which I thought may have been a Dalls Porpoise was very rapidly heading South by Harwood Island. The whales at this point were still heading Northward and were by Atrevida Reef.
As we continued up, another Porpoise, believed to be a Harbour Porpoise, was Southbound also trying to get out of these Transients' way.

1:33 pm Received a call from another regular contributor and neighbour, Steve G. of approximately 12 Pacific White Sided Dolphins at Westview, Powell River, also heading Northward.
A short time later, I received another call from Steve that actually the numbers were more in the neighborhood of 60 Dolphins! This is the first time, in a long time that we've had these numbers around...wonderful, but what about the Transients who eat them?

3 pm The Orca had made their way to Lund and stayed split up into 3 or 4 groups. Some were by the Savary Island dock area, some by Keefer Rock just off Hernando Island, and the main group of 8 to 10 Transient Orca were by Lund aiming towards Major Rock and Baker Pass. I left them shortly after with Jen, Campbell River Whale Watching, and Garry from Aboriginal Journeys to head back towards Powell River, hoping to locate the Dolphins.

320 pm Found the Pacific White Sided Dolphins just arriving at Dinner Rock still heading Northward to Lund. There were closer to 80 of them, slightly spread out, but leaping and wake riding. Since they were heading Northward, I did too. They wake rode all the way back to the line between the Iron Mines and Savary Island when they suddenly broke off. Did they hear the Transients, who by this time were somewhere up closer to Baker Pass and Twin Islands? Jen and Garry both came back to see the Dolphins and I again headed back towards Powell River leaving the animals with them around 4 pm. What a great day...must remember more sunscreen.

I was hoping to include some photos, with some ID's and if I get a chance later tonight, before this goes out to subscribers, I will. But, I will have some tomorrow if I don't make the cut off time tonight.
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

Transient Vocals and Other Reports to May 19

Here's a link to some awesome Transient Orca vocalization and video provided by Jen from Campbell River Whale Watching that was recorded on Tuesday, May 17 evening when the whales were just behind Harwood Island, close to Sentry Shoal. Well worth the watch and listen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxnJhUOuAQ4

The water was like glass today and around 7 pm I believe I saw some splashes and blows closer to the Vancouver Island side than Powell River. The distance is too great to see any dorsals. I'm hoping someone over there will be able to confirm that it was the whales as they headed Northward. From my vantage point, they disappeared behind Harwood Island.
Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

May 18:
Around 2:15 pm 8 Pacific White Sided Dolphins were spotted Southbound from Cape Mudge, Quadra Island. From Gary, Aboriginal Journeys

The balance of the reports that follow are from our friends farther South, submitted by Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network

May 18: Southern Resident Orca - J Pod was around the Whidbey Island area. Around 8 Transient Orca were seen in the San Juan Islands.
May 17: J Pod again:

J pod and BC Ferry, Tswwassen, B.C. May 17, 2011

Photo by Susan Berta, Orca Network

It's been a long drought for whale sightings for us which finally ended today. From our deck in Tsawwassen around 12:45 we saw a small pod of orcas slowly heading north. They were very spread out.

Cheers,

Karoline Cullen, Tsawwassen, B.C.

 

Humpback Reports in Southern BC:

May 16     

My neighbour across Sansum Narrows on Vancouver Island phoned me at 8PM to say he'd been following 2 Humpback Whales out of Maple Bay and into Burgoyne Bay. They were heading south in Sansum Narrows. Very exciting. This is the first report of the big whales here, although they probably were here before the whaling wiped them out of these waters. Has anyone else reported these 2 whales in BC?

Cheers,

Tamar Griggs, Bold Bluff, Saltspring Island, BC

May 16

Yesterday we followed 2 Humpback Whales from Maple Bay on Vancouver Island to Burgoyne Bay on Saltspring Island, and down Sansum Narrows past Burial Island. They were diving and spouting close together and it looked like there was a smaller one with a bigger one - Mum and baby? Does anyone know? They were moving pretty fast and went all the way into Burgoyne Bay where the Government wharf is and all the "live-aboards" in boats. This is the first sighting of these baleen whales EVER in Sansum Narrows - anyway since I have been here. (Whales may be sneaking by all the time when my neighbours and I are not watching). Are these whales exploring old territory? Are they lost? I believe Sansum Narrows had lots of Humpback Whales long ago before we hunted them to extinction in these waters. I'd love to hear if anyone has any ideas about these magnificent whales. We followed them for about 2 hours - from noon to 2 PM.
Best Wishes,
Tamar Griggs, Bold Bluff, Saltspring Island, B.C.

May 14  I would like to report 2 Beautiful Humpbacks my son and I witnessed on May 14, 2011 at 0945.  They were in Stuart Channel (near Crofton, BC) Chart 3442.  We joined them at Erskine Point (Salt Spring Island) and watched them cross to Grave pt and follow the shore to Sherard pt.  They continued towards the direction of Porlier Pass.  They were calm and serene each time taking 2 -3 breaths then a deep dive with tail fluke rising gracefully before descending.  They appeared to be approximately the same size (adult).  There is no mistake these were Humpback whales.  I've seen thousands of different whales including whale watching guide.  I didn't take pictures as I was video taping them.
Hope this helps,
Sandy Shaw

Transient Orca Super Pod Returns

The large Super Pod of Transient Killer Whales didn't stay very long at the top of Johnstone Strait! All 30 + Orca returned early this morning and stayed all day. Keep your eyes on the look out - they are around. I kept looking today, but they never came as far as Powell River....but almost. Read below:

Susan MacKay - Whales and Dolphins BC 

 

May 17:

5 pm The Orca had spread out a bit withing a triangle from Savary Island, Hernando and Mittlenatch Islands.

 

4 pm the Whales had made it about two miles South of Sentry Shoal where they let a lone Dalls porpoise get out of their way. They had been zig zagging towards Powell River then towards Miracle Beach on Vancouver Island. The Orca then grouped up with lots of vocalization. Ahh, calm weather, sunshine, whales and listening to them talking too! They slowly started to work their way back towards Mittlenatch.

En route to find the Orca, between the red can buoy and Mittlenatch, 3 Harbour Porpoises were spotted Northbound. Guess the Sea Lions were filling since the whales let them go.

The above three reports from Jack - Campbell River Whale Watching

May 17:

12:30 pm the Orca were spread out in smaller groups from the South end of Quadra Island to Vancouver Island slowly working their way South. By 2:45 pm they had made their way to Mittlenatch Island. The count was back up to the 30 + whales.

from Gary - Aboriginal Journeys

 

May 17:

Good morning Susan

10 Orca heading south at Seymour narrows at 7:30 am this morning.

Talk to you soon

Jack - Campbell River Whale Watching

Orca Sightings May 16

For us along the Sunshine Coast, things were certainly quiet today, especially after all the excitement of the huge numbers in the Transient Super Pod.

May 16:
All 30 + Transient Orca were up at Robson Bight around 9 am. They continued in a Westerly direction then around 3 pm they turned East again heading towards Alert Bay, but still up at the top end of Johnstone Strait. These Orca were doing around 15 knots (close to 30 km per hour!) what Aaron had reported the other day.
These reports were noted by Leah and Marie on Orca Live and from Donna of MacKay Whale Watching in Port McNeill

Orca Live had distant calls which could mean they're headed either out the top end of Vancouver Island or, based on their previous movements, probably in a big circle and maybe as far down the Strait as our area.
Susan MacKay - Whales and Dolphins BC

Transient Orca Superpods May 15

Another day with even more Transient (meat eating) Killer Whales grouping up. Today's finally tally was Over 30 whales together. Absolutely Amazing! There are still large groups of Transients in Washington State too.

Then there's the debate of the identified whales T20 and T23 that were in two places at once! Many nicks look very similar, but the photos of T23 below show just how difficult getting the correct ID can be.

In other sad news - the rescued Harbour Porpoise at Vancouver Aquarium died today.
Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

May 15:
20+ Orca were spotted just above Discovery Passage in Johnstone Strait by Chatham Point at 12:15 pm. By 1:45 pm the count had reached just over 30 Whales that had gone in behind Turn Island and then slowly worked their way up Nodales Channel.
From various radio calls from Whale Watching Tour boats.

May 15:
Last report was a call from Aaron, Campbell River Whale Watching who was with the over 30 Transients as they headed up Frederick Arm. T20 and T21 were two of the whales he identified.

May 14:
Jack and Aaron left with the 20 to 25 Orca by Sonora Island around 7:30 pm.

Following three Photos by Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching 

May 14 by Marina Island around 1 pm

Unidentified whales - possibly T68A or T72

T20

T23 and Friends

Close up of T23 from Jack's photo above.

The next photo is of T23 taken May 12 from Jeanne Hyde in Washington State. 

Jeanne has other great Orca photos on her blog.

These photos were taken a couple of days apart, but reports had them around Friday Harbour, US at 3 pm on the same day (no photo) that they were by Campbell River at 4 pm. Susan MacKay

Another Day of Transient Orca - Lots of Them

htWow! The Transient (meat eating) Killer Whales are everywhere - and in large numbers. From the large group cruising the outskirts of Desolation Sound to the one that were in Vancouver's Burrard Inlet the other day making an appearance in the Washington State San Juan Islands. Not many reports of anything else though.
Susan MacKay - Whales and Dolphins BC

May 14:
11 am a tug boat Captain spotted some Orca off in the distance when one breached and made a large splash. By 11:15 am the call was out one the radio that there were around 20 Whales by Marina Island, just off Cortez Island. The reports from various Whale Watching groups out on the water today were constant. It didn't take too long and then, by 2pm the reports were that the Orca, including T10 T10B and T20 (based on reports from farther South it's doubtful that T20 is in two places at once - wonder who's right or did they move that far so quickly?) were zig zagging in three to four distinct groups within a triangle from Marina, Quadra and Read Islands. There were some on a kill by Viner oint at the tip of Read Island. They stayed, spread out in that area until around 4 pm when they headed towards Whale Channel. At this point there was a count of around 25 Orca! By the end of the day, the Campbell River Whale Watching crew left them at 5 pm entering Calm Channel by Rendezvous Islands. What a day - breaching, tail slapping and just lots of whale activity!.

To add to this great day, the seas settled and gave everyone a great whale encounter. I do suspect that these whales are flitting about the inside waters - so keep your eyes open....I've mad it easier on the Sightings Blog to submit a sighting report by email for you.

News from Farther South:

J pod was still in Puget Sound today but rather elusive, and heard and seen heading out of Admiralty tonight.

Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network

May 13 

The Ocean Magic vessel out of Victoria met up with a number of Transients (looked like 7-8)  who appeared to be in a traveling group much of the time, Friday afternoon, May 13th (see photo below). We located them south west of Hein Bank close to 1:15pm. They did zigzag in different directions at times but didn't appear to be hunting. The research vessel out of the Centre for Whale Research kept company with these magnificent Orca. A pair of Tufted Puffins floating on the calm water helped make this a very special day.

Marie, 'Orca-Magic ', Prince of Whales, Victoria BC. Submitted by Orca Network

May 12

5-12-2011 on Maya's Westside Charters in the afternoon, after receiving a call, we headed north and west to the north side of Galiano Island, B.C. where we encountered T20 and T21 heading east at 3:00.  Farther east another boat came across T137, T137A and T137B.  T137C was not present.  Another boat was about 3 miles northwest of our location, returning to Vancouver, and came across several other whales.  We did not see those whales and left the scene at 3:40.  We made a return trip and at 5:35 encountered the same whales.  However, this time many more whales approached from the west and joined the others.  There was quite a lot of above water vocalizing and extraordinary surface action.  The whales present included some of the same whales that were photographed at Lions Gate Bridge, Vancouver, B.C. Wednesday.  The whales ID'd  on the late encounter were:  T20, T21, T137, T137A, T137B, T100, T100B, T100B1, T100C, T100E, T101, T101A, T101B, T102, T18, T19, T19B, T19C, T23, T23D, T26 and T26A. There was a total of 22 whales identified and possibly one or two more.

Jeanne Hyde , San Juan Island - Submitted by Orca Network

May 12

Today was one of those whales everywhere days. We left dock with no rumours, or even hints as to where to start. We soon got word of a humpback near Porlier Pass, and located it in Trincomali Channel, just south of the pass. This humpback was not exhibiting usual behaviour though. It was surfacing fast, and milling erratically, with just 1 breath per surface sequence and no long, lazy blow. Perhaps it knew what we were about to find out - transient orcas were in the Georgia Strait, and some were near. We headed out of the pass, and slightly south in Georgia Strait for an encounter with T20 and T21. These two individuals are sighted frequently in the area, and just continued on their way south, in typical transient fashion, during our encounter with them. Heading home across the strait, we encountered another 4 individuals - the T101's and T102. This group was also headed south in Georgia Strait. Watching them, we noted how tall T101A's fin is becoming, although still juvenile compared to T102  (see photo below).  As we left them to head for dock at approximately 15:20, we heard that there were yet more transients in Active Pass. Seals,  watch out!   

Joan Lopez, Naturalist, Vancouver Whale Watch - Submitted by Orca Network

Transients and Sea Lion Update May 13

Down in South Harbour, I don't have as good radio reception, especially at low tide behind the high rock breakwater, so couldn't hear if any of the boats found the Orca noted below. I did take the skiff out for a short while to drop the hydrophone and scan the waters - just in case. I never heard or saw anything by Powell River. The whales are still somewhere in the area so keep looking!

Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

May 13:

Between 12 and 1 pm around 3 Orca by Savary Island - Al Wood - Lund Water Taxi

May 13:

Hello Susan.  I just received a text from Lund that states that a pod of orcas is heading south from there towards Powell River.  09:30 a.m. Friday.
William D.

May 13:

9 am 3 to 5 Orca just off of Lund. - Lund Water Taxi Office

May 12: from the US:

More J pod reports from the San Juan Islands and again  in Admiralty Inlet and Puget Sound today! Transients in BC, Orcas in Prince William Sound, AK, Gray whales in WA & CA, and porpoise and sea lions.
Also, Saturday May 14th is the Penn Cove Water Festival in Coupeville on Whidbey Island, WA. This year we celebrate our 20th year with a fabulous Orca Wheel design by artist Roger Purdue. The whale wheel was designed by Roger, and six local carvers carved the orcas. The whale wheel is to help us remember the history of the orca captures in Penn Cove, and the threats the orcas face today, and to encourage us to take better care of them.

Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network

May 12: Sea Lion Information:

HI Susan -
Re: sea lion brands - we have a table on our stranding network webpage http://www.orcanetwork.org/marinemammals/sealionsightings.html from NOAA that enables you to look up the brand numbers & find out when/where the sea lion was branded - it also gives some info. about the program -
Susan - Orca Network

The link above does not include the "C" branded California Sealions which we had a photo of the other day. This Sea Lion was one of 1000 that were captured at Astoria in the Columbia River between 1997 and 2006. Of the captured pups, they branded 621 of them. The one on Major Rock off Lund was branded C435. Based on the numbers and years of branding, this animal is around 7 to 8 years old. Sea Lions usually live around 20 years, but there are some, usually female that can live longer.

Susan MacKay - Whales and Dolphins BC

May 12:

I asked if anyone had an update on the 20 -25 Transient Orca from the May 10. Responses below:

May 12:

Hey Susan,

As far as I know, no body was out on the water yesterday. The trailing group of Orca were making way South when I left them at about 5pm – Race Point mid- channel. Upon consulting with Aaron and AJ we really think that T20, T10 and T10B were in the mix, they were moving so quickly that it was difficult to get an ID, but you were correct, had to be transient, even by the dorsals – and couldn’t see any distinctive open saddle patch. Fantastic!!! Just wonder where they went. 

I saw the photos of the Orca under the Lions Gate this website has some decent photos.

http://www.vancouversun.com/technology/Transient+killer+whales+make+rare+appearance+Vancouver+Stanley+Park/4767298/story.html?tab=PHOTO

I think that we are out sometime tomorrow and on Saturday – will be in touch. Thanks for all of your work Susan, it is much appreciated.

 Take care, Jen - Campbell River Whale Watching

May 12:

Morning,
I was reading the Vancouver Sun this morning and the T's made the front page. On page A3 a short story on them IDed one male as T102 and there was a new born calf (still with its orangish hue) with them... Now we know which ones they were.
I also noticed the photo on page A3 the female (immature male?)  has a notch 1/3 of the way down the back of its dorsal.
B Sue

Transient Photos and Update May 11

Yesterday's report didn't get out to everyone - I'm afraid it may have been my late posting in hopes of having the photos to include with it. Today you should receive both yesterday's and today's postings including AJ's photos, at once. I do apologize for the confusion and the very long subscription report. If you checked the Blog itself, the posting is shown separately.

May 11:
Hi just had a tweet from news1130 radio (around 10ish) that said some orca had made it to Brockton Pt and may have gone into English bay. I don't have any other info thought you might be able to glean a little more.
from Sue B.
(I later found out that they were also Transient Orca - Susan)

Late report from Jamie S. about some Dolphins or Porpoises Northbound by Atrevida Reef last week. No numbers, exact date, or time.

May 10:
J Pod (Southern Resident Orcas) were still in Washington State by the San Juan Islands - from Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network

Photos By and Courtesy Andrew Jennings (AJ):

 

Lots of Transient Orca Acrivity May 10

What a busy day! Unfortunately I never got out there, but the Whale watching and Nature tours had a great show in the rain and lumpy Georgia Strait all day today. Read on:
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

May 10:
7:30 am Coming out of Frederick Arm (just above Desolation Sound) 20 to 25 Orca moving very rapidly Westward. Aaron with Campbell River Whale Watching was out on the water and said he was running at 15 knots to try to keep up with them. Full porpoising out of the water - spectacular sight.

Other whale watching vessels, Foghorn, Eagle Master and Tenacious 3 joined in the whale watching from their locations to be able to track these whales. By 9:30 am the Orca were into Nodales Channel still in a Westerly direction.

I received further updates from Jack during the day, heard bits from Lady Hawk (Jen) and others on the marine radio, as well as AJ later in the day. The Orca split up and spread out. Some zig zagging, some heading Southward toward Seymour Narrows and some staying above the Narrows.

By 11 am some had entered the Narrows and although the debate was "Who are these whales?" the most likely is that they were Transient Orca - but I'm known to be mistaken (too frequently to admit). There was thought of T10 or was it C10? Bottom line nothing definitive other than they weren't the A's or the J's (see other sighting reports).

By 5:15 pm there were 8 to 10 Orca by Maude - basically thay stayed in a small area for a long period of time.

May 10:
Hey Susan,
I sent too many pics to you! It's taking a long time!!! Here are the reports... pics to come I guess...

May 9 1215
Seymour Narrows, South Bound, 5-7 animals

May 9 1530(ish)
Francisco Pt (South end of Quadra Is)
Milling around 500m from the point, 10-12 animals

May 10 1740
Race Pt (Seymour Narrows), South bound, 10ish animals
AJ
In other news:
There's a California Sea Lion with a brand (C435) that's been spotted on Major Rock, off of Lund, for the past few days - I am looking into where the brand came from since there are a number of Sea Lions that were branded quite a while ago to monitor their travels. Photo and report from Gordie Coles:

The Harbour Porpoise that Vancouver Aquarium Rehab received a couple of weeks ago is still hanging in there, but hastn't been swimming on it's own yet without the support of the makeshift cradle....will keep you posted.

Today's Report from Orca Network:
J pod reports from Neah Bay yesterday and the San Juan Islands today, some amazing reports and photos of orcas in (Hotham Sound May 1st) BC, likely Transients, Orcas reported off Bainbridge Island tonight, and porpoise and a HUGE radar under tow.

Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network

Please Note: Neither Whales and Dolphins BC nor I personally am affiliated with Campbell River Whale Watching, Orca Network or any other group I might mention from time to time. I just feel that if these people and businesses are taking the time to make sure we have a central sightings forum, they should get credit. They, like anyone who contributes, should be patted on the back for participating.
Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC
Click to Contact Me by Email for Sightings, Comments, or just to say hello.

Transient Orca and Dalls Porpoises to May 9

The weather here was absolutely perfect for spotting whales, calm and sunny, but there wasn't a single blow seen from my vantage point. The only item from the immediate Powell River area was hearing the California Sea Lions barking when a tug got too close to their haul-out on the hulks breakwater. My location is approximately 5 KM or 3 Miles away from the Mill, so it's been a surprise to hear them a couple of times recently.
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

May 9: 
7 Transient (meat eating) Orca were spotted by AJ at Francisco Point by Cape Mudge the South end of Quadra Island at 2:45 pm. He took photos of them "partying" that I hope to be able to post in tomorrow's update.

May 9:
Transient Orca, unconfirmed numbers, spotted in Seymour Narrows around 12 pm. No direction given.

May 9:

Email received this morning:

I am at Bliss Landing. John B has told me about you and sent me your recent postings. We have been watching a pod of five Orcas for the last few weeks. They showed up the Saturday before Easter and have been around every few days since then. The seals in the area are very afraid and come into our docks when they are near. We shot some video of the pod a few days ago which I will try to send today.

Please keep me posted an sightings and I will do the same for you.

Regards Mac

May 8:
May Sea Lions, both California and Stellers on Mittlenatch Island. Apparently putting on a great show. Overheard comments on the marine radio - I believe from Jeff.

May 8:
Around 11 am there were around 6 - 8 Dalls Porposies out close to Cortez Island by Whaletown, where the Cortez to Quadra Island ferry runs. Report from AJ who's keen eye and water taxi runs helps in the spotting of many animals.

And From Farther North-West:
Reports of some Transient at the top end of Johnstone Strait, and from just above Princess Royal Island, some Northern Resident Orca including Springer (A73). Guess they're staying away from all these Transients we have down here.

Dalls Porpoise and Transient Orca May 7

Happy Mother's Day to all mothers out there!

May 7:
At 6:15 pm I received a call from John and Joan T. asking if I could see the Orca. Well, I had just set the binoculars back down, because although I thought I saw something, I couldn't find anything. After the call I did locate them. This is why it's so important to have all your eyes out there. There were around 8 or more Orca - assumed to be Transients doing their longer dives heading Southward relatively quickly in front of Westview, Powell River. Some split off towards Texada, but continuing Southward. The other group were closer to the Mainland side and appeared to be on a kill when I lost them behind some trees just before 7 pm that are in my vantage point view. 
Susan MacKay - Whales and Dolphins BC

May 7:
AJ was on the water again today and came across 4 to 6 Dalls Porpoise zipping back and forth foraging in Calm Channel around 10 am. He also saw an additional 10 to 12 Dall's Porpoise around 10:30 once he entered into Bute Inlet. They too were speeding around and did wake ride for a short time.


After speaking to some of the loggers he was water taxiing up Bute Inlet, he learned that they had seen some Orca "a couple of weeks ago" up at the head of the inlet by Orford River chasing Dall's Porpoises....very interesting.

Lots of Sea Lions and birds on Mittlenatch Island, a nature sanctuary in Georgia Strait. One Elephant Seal in Blackney Pass - noted on Orca Live by Leah.

And from our US friends:
Reports from the Salish Sea have been a bit slow the past few days, but we have a few Gray whale reports, Transient and Offshore orca reports from the California and Oregon coasts.
Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network 

Transient Orca and More Transient Orca May 6

Today there were more sightings of Transient (meat eating Killer Whales. Seems like the Transients are working their way around the islands from Desolation Sound down to the US border. Today's reports were forwarded through Aaron of Campbell River Whale Watching below.
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

May 6:
Orca (no numbers I'm afraid) by Sonora Lodge, Stuart Island around 10 am. They were heading North-West.

May 6:
Around 12 pm there were 2-4 Orca Southbound by Campbell River.

May 5 Update:
The ones by Chatham Point were confirmed as Transients from Aaron of Campbell River Whale Watching and not G-Pod as I surmised they might be. I'm forever hopeful of Resident (fish eating) Orca coming around our area. Aaron was with these 12 Transients which he believed included T21 and T22 for around 2 1/2 hours as they played with a seal.

Orcas and Contest - May 5

What a great day! Orcas, some possibly from G-Pod and Transients as well. As for something different, I have included information on a contest that could win someone a great cruise. Look for it below the Sightings Reports.

Please note that for some unknown reason, my yesterday's post did not go out to subscribers. It contained the report about the Northern Resident G-Pod farther south than usual - and Harbour Porpoises. Click here to view yesterday's report.

May 5:
Radio call came in from a commercial boat at 9 am about 10 or more Killer Whales by Copper Bluffs near Campbell River. The whales were moving quite quickly heading for Seymour Narrows in a north-west direction.

May 5:
One of the Campbell River Whale Watching boats was out and managed to find the 12 Orca by Chatham Point, just at the lower start of Johnstone Strait around 12 pm, where they stayed and foraged for about an hour. I had hoped to get an update as to whether or not the whales actually were from G-Pod or if they were Transients, but I never did hear from him. Instead, I received a heads up about...read on:


May 5:
Thanks to Elizabeth, who gave me a call around 2:30 pm about a pod of Orca by Beach Gardens, just below Grief Point, Powell River heading North. I quickly managed to get out in the skiff with my daughter and found the Transient (meat eating) Orca close by the mill. This is a favorite spot for Transients to find Sea Lions and Seals. There were between 9 and 12 Whales split into to groups. A group of four headed towards Harwood Island while the rest had a late lunch closer to the mill. They stayed in the area till around 5:00 pm and we left them by Atrevida Reef, heading towards Savary Island and Lund. I have not had a chance to look at any of the photos I took.
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

May 5:
At 7:49 pm:
Hi Susan
Just saw 4or5 Orcas right in front of our house at Bliss. Looked like there was a small one. Very exciting.
John H B

Bliss Landing is across from the Copeland Island, just North of Lund and just before Sarah Point and the entrance to Desolation Sound.


CONTEST:

The Way I Sea It is a blogging contest by Living Oceans Society where contestants share an experience that inspired them to make a difference, in 300 words or less. The contest will be launched on May 3, and will run until June 5. After writing a story about an inspiring experience, the contestants will then try to get as many people as possible to vote for their entry. Our panel of judges will select the winning entry from the five contestants that generate the most votes. The panel consists of Jennifer Lash from Living Oceans Society, Maureen Gordon from Maple Leaf Adventures, and Colleen Kimmett from The Tyee. Living Oceans Society will announce the winner on June 8, World Oceans Day.

The lucky winner’s prize is six-day adventure cruise by sail from Maple Leaf Adventures along British Columbia’s coast and the opportunity to write a few guest posts for Water Blogged, Living Oceans Society’s blog. This trip of a lifetime on the 95-ton schooner Maple Leaf with her gourmet chef and welcoming crew, features personal guides, whale watching, sailing, and hiking in the 200+ rainforest islands of B.C.’s Broughton Archipelago. The trip is the Whales and Totems Tour of the Great Bear Rainforest from August 28 to September 3, 2011.

This contest is geared toward Canadians who are engaged in civil society and who love to travel, especially along B.C.’s beautiful coast. Our target audience is people between 20 and 65 years old who enjoy outdoor recreation and eco-tourism, are social-media savvy, and are somewhat concerned about environmental issues. Canadian citizens, excluding Quebec residents, will be eligible to enter the contest, and anyone can vote for participants.

The contest website is www.livingoceans.org/thewayiseait.

About us: Living Oceans Society has been a leader in the effort to protect Canada’s Pacific coast since we formed in 1998. We are based in Sointula, a small fishing village on the Central Coast of British Columbia, but our influence is national. We are the largest organization in Canada focusing exclusively on marine conservation. We advocate for oceans that are managed for the common good, according to science-based policies that consider ecosystems in their entirety. Our contributions are helping to reduce harmful human impacts on the ocean.

Legal Information: No purchase necessary. Residents of Canada excluding Quebec are eligible to enter. The one prize is a trip for one from Vancouver to Port McNeil with Maple Leaf Adventures and worth approximately $3,875, and the opportunity to write two to five blog posts for the Living Oceans Society. To enter, contestants must clearly write a short story and be one of the five contestants to get the most votes. Judges will choose one contest winner from the five contestants with the most votes. The contest closes on June 5, 2011.

Ashley Knapp
Oceans Adventure Contest Coordinator
Living Oceans Society

Northern Resident Orcas and Porpoises to May 4

I received a huge surprise this morning when I heard about a Northern Resident Pod of Orca known as "G Pod" reported in Washington State May 1st. The report may be off by a couple of days, but my first thought was "What were they doing down there!" This is something quite unusual, but it was confirmed by Graeme Ellis of DFO out of Nanaimo from photos submitted that one of the whales was G39 with a damaged dorsal fin. Unfortunately the permissions for use of any photos on any blogs are not available yet. I will let you know when the photos are posted on Orca Network's site when they get permission.

May 4:
The only other report I received today was from AJ about 2 Harbour Porpoises he spotted closer to Rebecca Spit, Quadra Island as he headed into Sutil Channel around 9:30 am

In other areas:
The Gray Whales have not been spotted much over the past few days down south. Maybe most have made it up the coast.
And farther north-west there have been some Transient (meat eating) Killer Whales in Fife Sound, bottom of Queen Charlotte Strait.

Otherwise:
I keep seeing what I believe to be blows out in front and around the Powell River area when I get a chance to scan the waters, but these blows seem to disappear till I spot another a few hours later. I can't watch the water long enough in one stretch to be able to confirm if what I see (usually before grabbing binoculars) is a whale or not. Please keep your eyes open and let me know - locally, give me a call: 604-485-9138 or email me at susan@whalesanddolphinsbc.com I'd love to hear from you. Our network is growing and that gives us the chance to learn and understand more about these wonderful animals.
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

Killer Whales - Dolphins - Humpback to May 2

May 2:
My scanning the waters has been intermittent and brief. I thought I saw some blows and movement a couple of times, but not having the time to watch for too long, could not confirm what animals, if any. Even a call to a neighbour to look from a different vantage point did not produce any confirmation.

I did, however hear a broken transmission over the marine radio of some Pacific White Sided Dolphins this morning by Shoal Bay, near Campbell River this morning.
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

May 1:
We have spotted a family of Orcas about 1 km away from Savary directly between Savary and WestView.

There are 6 or more.  They were swimming in the same spot for 20 mins since we first saw them.  They seemed to be moving slowly west.

One had a large dosal fin and looked large in the body.  There were two medium sized orcas and 3 small ones that we could see.  There were 6 that we could count but there could have been a couple more than that.
Ron J

May 1:
Heard of some Transient Orca west bound at the top end of Johnstone Strait and a Humpback Whale eastbound.

The Humpback is not likely to come back down the Strait since they tend to stay in the Queen Charlotte Strait area or continue north-west along the Inside Passage in search of good feeding grounds. Most frequently Humpbacks arrive to our upper coast via the outside waters - open Pacific - taking a more direct route to feeding grounds. They have started to arrive back from their long journey from the calving grounds, and so do travel the inner waters between Vancouver Island and the Mainland, so watch for blows, backs, and tail flukes.

No reports from our friends farther south.

Humpback Porpoises and Sea Lions

April 30:
A few blows and a back of what appeared to be a Humpback Whale slowly moving in a Northerly / North-West direction in mid strait between Sliammon (just north of Powell River) and Harwood. I watched between 10 and 10:30 am then spotted it again, a short distance North, close to Atrevida Reef around 11 am still continuing towards Lund / Savary.

While in my back yard around 4:30 pm I could hear Sea Lions barking - probably from the Powell River Mill. It's odd to hear them from that distance.  After getting binoculars, I couldn't tell what disturbed them, but certainly did not see any big Orca dorsals. Being the weekend, they may have been disturbed by a boat fishing that got a bit too close.

 At around 5:30 pm out in front of Powell River heading Northward, I also spotted around 5 to 6 animals porpoising with the distinctive splashes of Dalls Porpoises. While watching, I did see a couple of small dorsals and then they disappeared to re-appear at quite a distance off. Lost sight of them close by Harwood Island.

No other local reports of sightings today. Maybe they are all watching hockey too!!
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

And from farther South:  

Transient orcas, Orcas off Newport, OR, a Minke whale, Gray whales and Risso's Dolphins, Porpoise and sea lions.
Below submitted by: Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network

Note: Risso's Dolphins do, occasionally make an appearance in Canadian waters, but the sightings are few and far between. It would be great to see them up in our area of the Sunshine Coast. Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC  

April 30

What a fantastic Saturday, huh? We were blessed with Transients (I think the T137's, T65A's, and T37's if I remember correctly...) in the Strait of Georgia heading toward the coal docks near Vancouver at approx. 13:00. They were moving quickly north (with a couple occasional abrupt, milling halts) and were in two fairly tight groups when we saw them. Great day to be on the water - lots of that sunny stuff that has become so rare around here ;)  Thanks, Katie Jones, Western Prince Naturalist

April 30

So, we finish the month as we started, with transient orcas cruising the waters usually patrolled by the residents. Today, a group of 10-12 transients was located in Georgia Strait at approximately 12:30, about 3 nm north of Tumbo Island. They were traveling northwest, at a fairly fast rate of speed, sometimes porpoising. The group consisted of females, juveniles, calves and 1 sprouting male. We were able to identify some of them as the T65A group and the T137's, T137A being the sprouter. The orcas were traveling in two groups, with T137A and some juveniles lagging about 200 m/yards behind the moms, and engaging in a fair amount of social activity. At one point, the group stopped and was milling in one area for about 5 minutes, then continued on their speedy way. We left the whales still heading north to northwest, west of the Tsawassen ferry terminal.

Joan Lopez, Naturalist, Vancouver Whale Watch

April 30

Had hoped to kayak on Whidbey today and hope for whale encounters, but I stayed home in Port Townsend Bay, lucky me. At 13:45 paddling from Rat Island toward town we encountered a gray whale heading northeast, it fluked and resurfaced West of us. Continued to see it until about 14:30, it was swimming all around the bay, South to Kala Point, then popped up just a few feet off the NW Maritime Center Pier very near shore as we loaded our boats. Last sighting was headed East around Pt Hudson.

Sue Long, Port Townsend, WA

April 30

I got really lucky and witnessed 4 or 5 pairs of mother / calf Gray whale combos making their way north very close to shore from above (a pullout on Highway 1 about 400 feet above the ocean just south of Grimes Point - where there's a sea lion colony on the rocky beach at the base of the cliffs). The whales were in close enough to be able to see them underwater,10:30am through 11:30am or so.

One interesting aspect to this is that at one stage, a Risso's dolphin (there was a small pod of them further offshore) came and swam between two whales (that looked to be about the same size - so not sure they were mother /calf), and both whales rolled on to their backs, then rolled back on to their fronts again and carried on.

Most (if not all) of the combos turned around a couple of times and seemed to hang out in the kelp - rather than just constantly head north - I wondered if that meant they were hiding from predators or something, but I only saw the Risso's in the area, nothing more sinister. Is that normal behavior for the grays? Thanks, Tim Huntington

Orca Sightings and Whale Updates to April 29

April 29:
AJ was out on the water today running a water taxi from Campbell River. We spoke a few times during the day with hopes that someone would locate the Orca, thought to be Transient (meat eating) Killer Whales he spotted early in the morning. All my scanning the waters around Powell River produced only a sighting of a couple of Sea Lions. This is his email this evening:
Hey Susan,
I never did find those Orca. So here's my sighting report.

0740 Apr 29 2011
3+ Orca North Bound from April Point resort on Quadra Island

Keep scanning! And work hard! :)
Cheers,
AJ

April 29:
Also hear rumours of a Humpback Whale arriving from the East (from the Sunshine Coast up Johnstone Strait) into the upper Johnstone Strait area. Maybe the whale I saw a few days ago?
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC 

April 27:
The A5 pod of Orca we had down here previously made their way back up Johnstone Strait and into Blackfish Sound. late in the day.
Susan MacKay

April 28::
Transient orca reports from the San Juan Islands, as well as Orca reports from South Africa!
Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network 

April 26 from South Africa:

We spotted two large Orcas ( at least - may have been four) yesterday 26 April 2011 at about 4.30pm off Plettenburg Bay, Western Cape. They were fairly close to shore swimming from Lookout Beach and round across Robberg.  I think they were disturbed by motor boat and kyak at got close to them. They then moved out to sea. Just prior to spotting them there was a huge school of smaller dolphin moving in the same direction. I would love to know if a sighting in this area is unusual and if this pod was migratory.

Regards, Susan O'Keeffe

 

And Gray Whales:

April 28

We saw two gray whales in front of the house--north end of Beverly Beach--about 5:15 this evening.  Neighbors to the south reported seeing three; they have a better view.  Whales making their way north, feeding, blowing and rolling. 

Sally and Tom Cahill, Whidbey Island, WA also submitted by:Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network

Whale and Porpoise Updates April 27

With all the excitement of having Northern Resident Killer Whales in our area the other day, I did forget to post the updates from farther south. I also apologize to Roger Jennings who kindly contributed the A Pod photos. In case some of you didn't catch it, I called him Peter....well, it was a newsworthy report.

In other news April 27:
A small Harbour Porpoise stranded on Salt Spring Island has been taken into rehab at the Vancouver Aquarium by members of the Marine Mammal Response Network. A timely reminder that if you see a marine mammal injured, in distress or dead, please call 1-800-465-4336

The last report I received regarding Orcas came in yesterday from Bill T. He was walking his dog down close to the water around 10 pm on April 25th south of Powell River close to Myrtle Rocks when there were a number of blows. Since it was so dark and his dog was afraid of this unrecognized sound, he could not get closer for a count on the exact number of whales, but based on the reports, we can only assume it was the same pod known as the A5s. They were very slowly moving southward, almost drifting with the tide.
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

A5 Pod of Orca taken April 25, 2011 in the Yuculta Rapids

Photo Credit: Roger Jennings

April 26 & 27:
No sightings reported in the Powell River Sunshine Coast area.

April 26: From the US:
More J pod reports in the San Juan Islands, Transient orcas in Puget Sound, up north in the islands and Monterey Bay, and a Gray whale report, along with porpoise,  and sea lions in Penn Cove. 

April 26

Nice morning over here on the Marrowstone side. Finally saw a Gray Whale. Just after 7 a.m. this morning as I was walking south from East Beach. The whale was feeding immediately off the cemetary, then moved south along where there is a nice long sand bar and eelgrass flats that forms north of Nodule Point.

 I stopped at the Nordland Store to tell anyone with interest, then went to the cemetary to see if I could see the whale from above. No sign of the Gray, but there were three, maybe more Harbor Porpoises slowly moving east and across the channel not too far south of Nodule Point. 

Lots of seabirds moving around this morning and a huge armada of Surf Scoters - with the usual bands of Redbreasted Mergansers dining on "forage fish" nearshore. Seals hauled out on the rocks and a sea lion quite a ways offshore at East Beach. Peaceful waters. Getting ready for the next round of those trouble makers you all want to see! The Marrowstone Table is set for more Orcas! 

Ron Hirschi, Marrowstone Island, WA  submitted by Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network 

Northern Resident Orca Sightings April 25

More Orca sightings today. The weather wasn't quite as nice as the other day, but the water was calm. The big surprise is that these whales are from the A5 pod of Northern Resdient (fish eating) Orca. We haven't seen them around for a while so it's quite exciting. After the last report, I kept scanning the waters, but could not locate them. If they passed by Powell River, they hid pretty well. Some photos below from earlier today by Peter Jennings..
Susan MacKay - Whales and Dolphins BC

April 25:
Around 4:30 pm 8 or 9 Orca spotted just past Dinner Rock (north of Powell River and just below Lund). They were resting on the surface then slowly moving southward and disappeared.
From John and Joan on Savary Island

April 25:
Hi Susan
We are at Bliss (North of Lund) and saw some whales or dolphins today. Judy says they were Orcas but I think they were too small. I think they were white sided dolphins They came right by our place. Have you had Orca reports lately?
John B.
Hi John,
Yes we have - 2pm by Yucultas and 4:30 pm by Dinner Rock - had to get by you somewhere along the line. They seem to have disappeared - possibly back up your way???? Please let me know.
Susan

April 25:
Hey Guys,
I saw some Orca today at 1340 in the Yuculta Rapids. I'm quite sure they were the same as the ones Jack came across on Saturday around Waddington Channel. Here are some still pics them.
Cheers,
AJ

(Photo credits: Roger Jennings)

Transient Killer Whales April 23

April 23:
Reports of Orca Southbound in Lewis Channel just below Teakerne Arm around 11am. They slowly moved down the channel to just above the Copeland Islands, locally known as the Ragged Islands.The weather was almost summer-like, and flat calm water to boot!

The Campbell River Whale Watching tour caught up with them around 12:30;m between Kinghorn and Mink Islands in Desolation Sound. There were 10 or more animals in the group which were probably the Transients that had been working their way down Johnstone Strait April 21st. Later in the afternoon, the whales headed Northward up Waddington Channel and were last seen around Church House on Stuart Island just below the Yuculta Rapids.
Susan MacKay

HAPPY EASTER WEEKEND TO YOU ALL!

Transient Orca, Porpoises - April 22

Transient Orcas this morning at 8:20am by Powell River, only two were visible at any time with the big male being either T054 or T093. It was difficult to tell for sure - they were not staying on the surface very long. They did cruise by some sea lions, and were on a head on course for the porpoises reported by Myrtle Rocks. I kept hoping for a turn back up this way, but nothing. 
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

April 22:
Two Orca reported just south of Powell River at 10:40am. Some resting and continuing slowly southward. by Bill T. and
That was really awesome watching those two orcas slowly cruise by.  Then, two or three deep blows and out of sight.  Awesome. by William D.


April 22:
Good morning.  I'm here to report that there is a small  (6 or 7) group of porpoises just off Myrtle Point close to shore traveling north towards Powell River.  Quite dark in color, not the light grey like others, but small and rounded dorsal fins. They would be at or about Myrtle Rocks right now.  8:45 Friday.
From William D.


April 22:
2 or more Transient Orca spotted right out in front of the Powell River Ferry terminal at 8:20 am. Thanks to a call from Gladys who was lucky to see one breach. I picked them up continuing on a slow roll towards Grief Point. Since they were close to shore, I couldn't get a definitive count on them, but one large male and one, possibly two females.
Susan MacKay Whales and Dolphins BC

Other reports: Grays by Whidbey Island, a Minke, and, of course Transient Orca, also in US waters
from Susan Berta and Howard Garrett, Orca Network and
Yesterday, April 21st T23's (more Transient Orca) heading down (south-east) Johnstone Strait.

Humpback or Gray Whale April 20

April 20:
Around 4:30 pm I spotted a blow close to the Texada Island side of Harwood Island. After rushing upstairs for the binoculars and staring out at the water for a while, I determined I was seeing things. That is, until I saw another blow by the reef off of Blubber Bay, where the Texada ferry docks. Then, over a period of time, another 5 or 6 blows by one animal. No sighting of back or tail flukes, and looking at the size and shape of the blow, I lean towards it being a Gray Whale rather than a Humpback. I lost sight of any blows close to the Texada shore around 6:30pm. Calls to a few other people with slightly different vantage points yielded no other sightings of the animal till I saw one more blow, still no back or tail flukes, back by Rebecca Rocks at a little after 8pm. It's nice to have enough light so late now.

No reports of other whales, dolphins or porpoises around the Sunshine Coast today, but they must be out there.

Orca Live from the upper Johnstone Strait area had one report of Transients today:
Wow more transient excitement this morning! The T023's came back heading North in Blackney. They attacked a sealion about 100m off the lab and were very vocal throughout!!! They have now left view still headed North. They did not kill the sea lion and he seems ok as I am watching him now about 30 m off the lab. There have still been a few intermittent calls.
Marie

And from Orca Network in the US:

April 20

4/20/11 - About 7 Orcas actively feeding off southwest end of McNeil Island for 10 minutes starting @ 0815 (est. 47 deg 12 min 00 sec X 122 deg 43min 40 sec). Maybe one male and at least three young. Seen from Mahncke Point. Departing direction unknown. Two of our four resident eagles and about 10 seagulls went  out to clean up the scraps.

Kurt Anderson