Dolphins, Orca and Harbour Porpoise

Pacific White Sided Dolphins top the list today! At the bottom of all the Sightings reports there are some links together with a request from Erin Ashe, one of the Dolphin Researchers...take a look. The Transient Orca (Bigg's Killer Whales) have done their highly tuned disappearing act, but there are sightings reports below! Only Harbour Porpoise round out the cetacean sightings report. As an aside, I had never mentioned an unusual sighting of large, Monarch looking, butterflies flapping their way across a couple of ocean channels....interesting. I had never seen them do that before, but guess that's how they make those long migrations. I also posted a photo of a very hot black bear looking very satisfied as he was cooling off.

Keep your eyes open everyone – those Orca went South of Mitlenatch, so they're around somewhere close.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Transient Orca - Mom T086A and Calf T086A3

July 13, 2012

Susan MacKay, SG Images

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

July 15:

11 am 12 – 24 PWS Dolphins off Fawn Bluff in Bute Inlet (seems to be a favourite spot for them – SM)

Aaron Webber, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 15:

11:30 am A larger group of about 50 + PWS Dolphins at Sonora Point, Nodales Channel then heading into Cordero Channel. They were really moving fast.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 15:

11:40 am Another group of 8 – 10 PWS Dolphins heading inbound to Phillips Arm.

2:30 pm The large group of PWS Dolphins are just off Hole in the Wall heading towards Dent Rapids.

Pacific Yellowfin Tender

July 15:

4 pm 50 – 60 PWS Dolphins still above Dent Rapids by Denham Island – looking sleepy. Guess they're resting with full bellies.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 14:

9:45 am About 12 PWS Dolphins foraging by Twin Islands

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

Transient Orca – Bigg's Killer Whales

July 14:

12 pm Orca spotted off Whiskey Point, by Painter's Lodge, Campbell River heading South – there's one big fin.

(Others had been searching the myriad channels for the Orca, and of course they popped up close to where they started from! - Sneaky Whales - SM)

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 14:

3 pm The Orca took their time to get to the Red can buoy by Cape Mudge and started angling towards Baker Pass. There was T20 and T090 for sure.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 14:

3:45 pm The Orca again changed direction and are headed South towards Mitlenatch Island. They picked up the pace and were abeam Mitlenatch Island at 4 pm. They were still heading South.

Aaron Webber, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 13:

6 pm Last sighting (reported) of the Orca heading into Desolation Sound was by Roscoe Bay.

Pacific Yellowfin

Young Transient Orca Headstand (on the Rocks?)

July 13, 2012

Susan MacKay, SG Images

Harbour Porpoise

July 15:

2:40 pm 2 Harbour Porpoise in the middle of Beazely Pass. Just milling.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 14:

4 pm 1 Harbour Porpoise foraging in Calm Channel.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

Ahhhhhh! Satisfaction....

Black Bear Settling into Cool Ocean Water

July 14, 2012

Susan MacKay, SG Images

Nice Comments and Pacific White Sided Dolphin Information Request:

Dear Susan, Thank you so much for your amazing blog posts! I'm from the west coast and study Pacific white-sided dolphins in BC, but am writing up my PhD thesis at the University of St Andrews in Scotland at the moment. Your website and updates help me a lot when I'm homesick, except when you post about all these dolphins I'm missing!

The main part of my thesis uses photo-ID data (initially collected by Alexandra Morton, whose catalogue I took over 5 years ago) to estimate abundance, trends and survivorship. That project is described here:

http://www.oceansinitiative.org/dolphins/

But my thesis will include a chapter on killer whale predation on dolphins (successful & unsuccessful attempts), based on my first time witnessing that amazing event:

http://www.oceansinitiative.org/2012/06/28/the-worlds-biggest-dolphin-eating-the-worlds-coolest-dolphin/

I am trying to pull together as many observations of killer whales chasing, attacking, or killing Pacific white-sided dolphins. I would be very grateful for any help you can offer in (a) getting the word out about my search, and (b) putting me in touch with people who have seen this (e.g., this amazing footage: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-9fdzhn5ic). If people have individual ID photos (e.g., http://www.oceansinitiative.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/willson.jpg ) I'd be happy to compare them to my catalogue or Alexandra's historic catalogue from the Broughton Archipelago.

My partner, Rob & I will be home next week for field work in Johnstone Strait and the Broughton and I can't wait to contribute our sightings to your network. Rob & I work out of Pearse Island.

Thank you so much for your help. If you think it would be appropriate, I can write something that you could include in your next email update, or maybe you can think of a better way to ask your audience for reports of killer whale attacks on dolphins. It would be great to learn more about this amazing species!!! Thank you again! All the best,

Erin Ashe

Many Local Sightings Reports

Many local Sightings - Long report covering a few days with some late reports too. The Northern Resident Killer Whales came down Johnstone Strait for a short visit, but our 'Resident' Transient (Bigg's) Killer Whales are popping up all over. The Humpback Whales seem to have left our area, but the Pacific White Sided Dolphins are spreading out in smaller groups. There have also been a few Dall's and Harbour Porpoise sightings and one report from the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Keep those reports coming everyone – Great Network!

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Transient Orca – Bigg's Killer Whales

Orca Breach- Northern Resident Killer Whale

July 10, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 13:

1:40 pm After everyone had searched for the Transients for a number of hours. The radio got extremely active with the report from Joss, Eagle Eye Adventures that he had found in the exact place the others had been. 6 Orca by Mary Point, Cortez Island. The last report was at 5 pm that those whales were heading into Desolation Sound past Kinghorn Island.

Around 3:30 pm Joss again found the other group of Transients in Calm Channel right by Raza Island. This time, I could get out to see them! Aaron from Sonora Lodge was with them when I arrived. We counted a total of 8 Orca including T20 and two calves. They stopped for a bit of play close in to the Raza shore and we had the opportunity to listen to some very nice vocalizations and echolocation. They continued through Raza Passage and into Pryce Channel. The thought is, that they may be meeting up with the other Orca found by Cortez since they were travelling loosely together by Savary Island. I left them at around 5:20 pm slowly making their way towards Desolation Sound.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

July 12:

We saw three adult Orca and one calf swim past at 6:25 am. One adult
had a large fin.

Bob Brooks

July 12:

7 am 6 Transient Orca right in front of Powell River, just off the viewpoint heading North. One huge dorsal and a couple of calves.

Then by email: Hi Susan, You must be on the high seas by now and the Orca are here in Powell River. Last night July 11 at about 10pm I saw 3 dorsals several times in the growing darkness just off shore of my place in Westview. They seemed to be heading towards the north end of Texada Island. This morning at about 7:10 am I noticed a pod of 6 Orca, looked like the usual transient pod with the large male and small calf, within 100 meters of shore right below our houses. 15 minutes later another pod of 5 or 6 Orca caught up to the first group and they proceeded to head out further into the Malaspina Strait in a northerly direction. The morning light caught their blows beautifully and I could see their markings very well from my deck using the spotting scope. A great start to another beautiful day! Have fun Susan!

Steve Grover, Powell River

July 12:

8:30 am Received two calls from a cell phone number I recognized as one used on Savary Island. Calls were all dropped in my location, but I could send text messages. So I texted with the assumption that the call had to be about the Orca showing up..... To my amazement, yes, the number belongs to a regular contributor, but he texted back that he was in Chicago and never placed the call. Boy does Ron have good eyes or well trained cell phone! There were Orca right off his location on Savary.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

July 12:

around 10:30 am 5 or 6 orcas travelling North between Lund & Major Rock, heading towards Thulin Pass, but then there was a fair bit of boat traffic, so they may not have continued North.

Christine Hollman, Terracentric Adventures

July 12:

10:22 am 6 Orca between Savary and the Mainland – no direction. Kurt just on scene. Anothe 6 still at Dinner Rock, below Lund heading North.

12:30 pm 8 – 10 Orca Close to Twin Islands.

Jack & Kurt, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 12:

2 pm Orca now Westbound out Baker Pass between Hernando and Cortez Islands.

Joss, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 12:

4:10 pm Orcas are West side of Twin Islands milling about towards Baker Pass Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 11:

9 pm 5 – 6 Orca including one really big dorsal Northbound towards Powell River between Albion Point and Myrtle Rocks.

Bill Taylor, Powell River

July 11:

9 pm 6 Orca Northbound by Myrtle Rocks. One has a really big fin.

Nina Falls, Powell River

July 10:

8:40 pm 2 groups of Orca Northbound. This was overheard on the radio while I was at Twin Islands. Unfortunately, the boaters talking didn't get back to me as to the whales' location. All I could tell is that they were somewhere South of my position.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

July 9: (rec'd July 10)

Hello, Yesterday (9th) my husband and I were lucky enough to spot a pod of killer whales just past Vivian Island (off Harwood) heading towards Comox/Campbell River. The group was actually split up in two, with approximately five orcas in each group. I was able to get a couple of excellent photos and identify the large male as T020.

Jessica Dohm

July 9:

Hi Susan, We were out sailing off Westview, Powell River on the Ninth and at about 1 pm witnessed a pod of Orca, about eight, including one large male and a calf, and followed them under sail for a while as they headed for Little River, Comox passing between Rebecca Rock and Vivian. Lots of breaching and spy hopping. Wonderful. Pics may follow when my crew member Harvey gets them off his phone.

Ray Hogan

July 10:

Late report re: July 7^th: Never saw the whales heading past Myrtle Rocks, but at around 11 pm we could hear their blows close to shore between Albion Point and Myrtle Rocks, Powell River. Also, some friends had come over and told us they had seen some Orca off the NW tip of Texada from the Comox ferry earlier in the day.

Bill Taylor, Powell River

Northern Resident Killer Whales

Northern Resident Killer Whales

July 10, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 10:

1:18 pm Group of Orca at Greene Point Rapids – Chancellor Channel. 4 small dorsals so far. 4:30 pm Northern Resident Orca Westing into Johnstone Strait – it's the A35's

Aaron, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 10:

4:45 pm 6 female Northern Resident Orca by Harding Island Westbound. At first I thought they might have been Transients because once the Orca got into Nodales Channel and headed West, where there were some PWS Dolphins Eastbound. It seemed once they got wind of the Orca, the Dolphins headed quickly West at about 13 knots. Later, looking at the photos, they were the A11's, Resident (fish eating) Orca. Just seemed strange that the Dolphins turned and headed back out so quickly...Coincidence.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

July 12:

8 am Approximately 100 PWS Dolphins in a hurry Northbound between Shelter Point and the fishing Hump off Cape Mudge.

?? Radio

July 12:

8 am 20 – 40 PWS Dolphins fast foraging in Raza Pass heading towards Calm Channel. About 35 min. Later, they headed back towards Deer Pass then Pryce Channel disappearing around the corner.

1 pm 30-40 PWS Dolphins slowly foraging in Frances Bay across from Raza Island.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

July 11:

2:48 200 PWS Dolphins by Fawn Bluff in Bute Inlet. Milling and feeding.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 11:

1:11 pm Approximately 200 PWS Dolphins by Fawn Bluffs in Bute Inlet.

Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 11:

3:20 pm Just leaving 150 – 200 PWS Dolphins heading South from Bute Inlet close to shore.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

July 10, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 10:

12:05 pm 40+ PWS Dolphins bow and wake riding two larger boats heading towards Cortez Island between Twin Island and Powell Islets. They left the boats by Powell Islets and turned towards the Copeland Islands.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

July 10:

4:20 pm 30 PWS Dolphins Westbound by Chatham Point.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 10:

7 pm Caught bits of transmission of PWS Dolphins in Nodales Channel.

Radio

rec'd July 10:

On Saturday, July 7th we also spotted a pod of white sided dolphins between Harwood and Savary Islands heading across towards Campbell River. I would estimate the number to be between 30-40. Best regards,
Jessica Dohm

Dall's and Harbour Porpoise

July 13:

6:18 pm 2-3 Harbour Porpoise near Simms Creek.

Tara Bladon, Campbell River

July 11:

5:55 pm 2 groups of Harbour Porpoise to report: 2-3 at Wilby Shoals off Cape Mudge and 3-4 closer to Simms Creek.

Tara Bladon, Campbell River

July 10:

8:15 am 2 Dall's Porpoise foraging between Cortez and Twin Islands.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

West Coast – Fin or Sei and Gray Whale

I was on a kayak trip in the Broken Group Islands last week. On Friday 7/6/12 (early afternoon) I saw at least 1 whale very close up in rough waters (hence no picture). We were on the outside of Wower island heading towards Batley (we had just gotten past Wower and were starting to head North toward Batley). At first the whale seemed to be heading with us Northish surfacing a few times, each time very close to our kayaks, then was headed South (toward open ocean). A few minutes later saw what was probably a second whale heading south close to us again. I never saw two fins or blows at the same time. Is it possible this was a Fin Whale or a Sei? Any other reports? It was dark brown to black with a smooth back and small curved fin set far back (but not far enough for a Minke also to big for a Minke). I did not see any mottling, color was solid. It was not blowing on every surfacing. I never saw a tail, my partner saw a tail once. It seemed to surface quite often. After looking at this link (http://www.abc.net.au/oceans/whale/char.htm#fin)I believe it to be Sei because the fin seemed to be in the middle during the dive sequence. I have looked at many internet pictures and there is no way it was a Gray, Humpback, or False Orca, and was way too big for Minke. If you had any other reports or might know what I say please let me know. When we made it over to the Southwestern side of Batley we saw what I am sure was a Gray Whale there close to the shore (No fin). It may have been a Juvenile because it did not look very big. Thank You,

Debi Viniarski

Sightings Spread Out

Northern Resident (fish eating) Killer Whales finally made their way into the upper Johnstone Strait today. There's hopes of seeing them come down the Strait into our area. Transient (meat eating) Orca also now called Bigg's Killer Whales appear to have spread out – somewhere, but some have shown up in and near the US reported by Orca Network. Their sightings are random complete with disappearing acts; wait to see them since they're coming your way, and nothing. They are the masters. Sightings reports of Humpback Whales, Pacific White Sided Dolphins and a few Harbour Porpoise, nice to see them showing up again, round out the Cetacean sightings reports. There are a couple of submitted video links below.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Transient Orcas – Bigg's Killer Whales

Transient Orca – Campbell River

July 6, 2012

Tara Bladon, Campbell River

July 9:

9:40 am 12 Transient Orca near Robson Bight. Upper Johnstone Strait No direction. Also from the Upper Johnstone Strait area: Large group of Orca Westbound from Bear Point, Malcom Island – possibly Resident !!

Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 8:

Hi there We are in Hospital Bay, Pender Harbour. We have just seen a Mum and baby orca coming into the harbour passed Indian islands. How special was that? Do we need to report it anywhere else? ( we are from Alberta and have to report bear sightings) do they often come into harbours?
Thanks for your website
Cindy Luntley

July 8:

Hi Susan, We were boating off Beach Gardens (Powell River) and saw Orca about half way between our shore and Texada. They were being closely followed by a Coast Guard boat. The Orca were headed north, one large male and several others, looked like there were a couple of calves. We saw them between 1:30 and 2 pm. Sorry you missed them. Our 9 year old grandson was quite excited as he was the one who got the humpback photo in Mexico. Not sure we got any pics, will download them later today.

The ones you called about the other night we don’t think came this far southeast.

Michael Stewart, South Powell River

July 8:

11:47 am Transient Orca Eastbound down Johnstone Strait by Naka Creek.

Overheard Radio Scotty talking to Lukwa, Stubbs Island

July 7:

Sailed around 8 Orcas yesterday morning from 10:30 am until 12 pm. Sailed with them off Pender Harbour to the north tip of Thormanby. There was one large male some females and definitely a few calfs. Saw one orca breach.
Carolyn Slater

July 6: (received late)

Hi Susan, I was so lucky last night, (6^th) as always I hopped in the car to photograph the orcas, (in front of Campbell River) but this time I also ended up hopping on a boat at the last minute, with some very kind and generous strangers, haha!! There appeared to be two groups of orcas, each maybe 5-7 in number. Or maybe one large pod, but there was often a good distance between each group (100-200 yards), also I believe we saw 2 bulls (maybe 3?)- but I'm not sure. I think we were watching their playful and proud behavior after a kill. I'm speculating, but with the binoculars I did see what looked to be hunting and circling for some time, later followed by breaches, pec and tail slaps, lobtailing and spy hops galore!!! This is actually my first time seeing ANY of these behaviors, and they were all combined in one night! What a treat to witness!! I've attached the one photo worthy of sending to you for now- I'm a beginner photographer, and so the low lighting conditions combined with all of my excitement resulted in only a few keepers :) I'll send some ID photos to you another time if you're interested... but for now, here's my FAV!!! Happy Weekend! Talk soon! :)

PS: I forgot to share their direction of travel- very slowly north through discovery passage with a few direction changes while playing and jumping around! :)

Tara Bladon, Campbell River

Transient Orca

July 5, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

Humpback Whales

July 9:

6:10 am Humpback Whale in Elk Bay. No direction. From Water Taxi.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 8:

7:30 am Humpback Whale out in front of Willow Point. No direction – from fishing guide report. 8:12 am The Humpback is now in front of Quathiaski Cove bucking tide.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 8:

A humpback surfaced in Sutil Channel between Birdwood bay and Hill Island at 09:20 hrs heading north.
Jane Landry aboard Whisper

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

July 9:

3 pm 30+ PWS Dolphins at the West end of Nodales Channel.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 9:

12:15 pm About 100 PWS Dolphins spread out between Thurlow and Sonora Point.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 8:

11:10 am About 20 Dolphins entering Bute Inlet

??

July 8:

4:14 pm Just leaving 100 PWS Dolphins in Raza Passage, above Desolation Sound, just milling.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

Transient Orca Play

July 4, 2012

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

Harbour Porpoise

July 9:

1:37 pm 10 or so Harbour Porpoise spread out foraging mid channel between Hernando and Copeland Islands. Joss, Eagle Eye Adventures also reported that in his travels, he saw a couple of Harbour Porpoise by Sliammon Creek, Powell River. No time given for sighting.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Video Links

Link with Pacific White Sided Dolphins wake riding by Savary Island on July 7^th – A quick reminder to all boaters: if the Dolphins want to come to play by your boat, be very careful not to make any sudden turns or stops. Never rush them or drive into the middle of the group. They may be fast, but can't always get out of your way fast enough and have been known to get hurt. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAggBUsE8V0

Gordie Coles, Savary Island / Lund

Here is the link to the mother and baby River Otter (these are the common Otters we see in our inside waters – SM) sighting on June 30 in Myrtle Creek, Powell River. http://youtu.be/8xQCT_RfJ84

Holly Roy, Traff Road, Powell River

Nice Comment on July 8:

Hi there. Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy receiving your posts! We just moved to Powell River (Myrtle Rocks area) from the Fraser Valley. I've been back and forth on the ferry dozens of times and have yet to see any whales, dolphins etc. but it's not for lack of trying lol. My family knows it's on my bucket list, and now that we've moved here we're always watching when we can (don't live right on the water). I figure sooner or later it's gotta happen lol! Anyways, thank you so much for all your hard work putting this together. You really do a super job at it and I really enjoy the emails, and pictures. Thank you!!!
Ann Mailhot, Powell River, BC

Orca Orca Everywhere Then Poof They're Gone

Long, catch-up sightings report! Orca, Orca Everywhere the other day, today was one of those “and poof they're gone” days. Until late in the day, there were tour boats enjoying the beautiful weather, and very few Cetacean sightings.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Transient Orca – Bigg's Killer Whales

Transient Orca

July 6, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 7:

4:40 or so, Coming across on the Comox ferry to Powell River we saw 4 or 5 Orca off the top of Texada Island. Watching them, they popped up well off the other side of the ferry and closer to Harwood Island. There was 1 big male dorsal – extremely pointy looking travelling with a calf and possibly 3 other Orca. They all headed North.

About 5:30 pm 25 to 40 PWS Dolphins transited Southbound quickly off Armour Road, Myrtle Rocks area of Powell River.

While Nina was calling in this report, she was surprised to look out her window to see another group of Orca! Probably following/chasing the Dolphins. - SM

6:10 pm Another group of Orca suddenly popped up moving quickly South off Myrtle Rocks, Powell River. There were definitely 5 females and a couple of others. (while still on the phone – SM) Oh look, a Breach....Another breach!! Lots of splashing about. (She went to watch - SM)

Nina Falls, Powell River

July 6:

7 am 6 Orca passed Sonora Resort. Soon after: Orca chasing PWS Dolphins by Pryce Channel. The Dolphins disappeared, but not before one was taken by the Transient Orca.

Aaron, Eagle Master, Sonora Lodge

July 6:

8:50 am Scotty just found 3 or 4 Orca right in Hole in the Wall. Then another group (the balance of the early report) right at Florence Cove in Hole in the Wall. Now there's a total of 7 Orca Broken Radio transmissions

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 6:

12:52 pm Killer Whales now at Conville Point Southbound. I'm with them at Dunsterville Island.

2:43 pm Orca by Hoskyns Rock spread out to Breton Islands.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 6:

4 pm 6 Transient Orca, mostly females, entered Drew Harbour by Rebecca Spit, Quadra Island and put on quite a show with breaching, tail slapping and generally just playing around the boats at anchor.

Joel, Tenacious 3

July 6:

5:30 pm The Orca from Drew Harbour are now about 5 miles off Francisco Point (Cape Mudge) Southbound.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 6:

6:11 pm These same Orca are now 2 miles off Francisco Point about 25 to 30 meters off the shore.

Joss, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 6:

9 pm Orca Northbound by Wilby Shoals. I think they were feeding – lots of circling, splashes and now spy hops, breaches – tail slaps galore! Heading North through Discovery Passage now.

Tara Bladon, Campbell River

 

Transient Orca T101B Breach

July 4, 2012

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 5:

8:53 am 6 Transient Orca heading North half way between Teakearne Arm and the top of Lewis Channel.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 5:

12:30 pm 10 or more Orca by Surge Narrows, Beazely Pass by Whiterock Pass.

Kurt to Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 5:

12:55 pm Transient Orca T090, T086A's are the ones by Raza island. Just leaving. They are in Raza Passage across from Redonda Bay. Eastbound into the upper ends of Desolation Sound.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 5:

3:14 pm 2 groups of Transient Orca just North of Dunsterville Island in Hoskyns Channel. (Transient Orca identified by Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures as T100, T101/T102 gangs plus others)

Joel, Tenacious 3

July 5:

5:16 pm About 12 Transient Orca Southbound about 3 miles North of Francisco Point - left the scene.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 5:

6:35 pm Orca heading East towards Marina Island from Francisco Point – guess I'm the last one (of the tours). Whales had been hugging tight to the Quadra shoreline.

7:30 pm Still 10 or so Orca – one big fin separated not sure where it went.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 5:

6:30 pm 5 Orca including two large dorsals and possibly 2 calves on either side of the channel in front of Bliss Landing, at the top of the Copeland Islands. Heading South.

John Bowles, Bliss Landing

July 5:

Orca sighting in Copeland Islands July 5th around 7:00 pm. We saw 4 or 5 Orcas heading south along the coast.
Carolyn Slater

Humpback Whales

July 7:

8:24 am One Humpback Whale is just off the Red Can Buoy (Cape Mudge) heading East towards Marina Island or Hoskyns Channel.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 6:

9:20 am A Humpback off the Hump at Willow Point (the fishing spot)

Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 6:

12:02 pm A Humpback Whale Northbound in Seymour Narrows.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 6:

3:40 pm 2 Humpback Whales. One we saw in Calm Channel on one side of Hole in the Wall Rapids and the other was on the Okisollo side heading East.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 6:

6:21 pm One Humpback is heading South by Read Point in Sutil Channel.

Joss, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 5:

9:17 am 3 Humpback Whales reported by a sport fisher Northbound off Squirrel Cove, Cortez Island.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 5:

10:12 am A Humpback Whale heading North in Hoskyn Channel across from Conville Point.

Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching

Transient Orca - At Play

July 4, 2012

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

July 7:

9 am About 100 PWS Dolphins by Fawn Bluffs, Bute Inlet. May be heading into Bute.

Aaron, Eagle Master, Sonora Lodge

July 7:

1:32 pm Couple of hundred PWS Dolphins off North side of Savary Island. Just leaving them at Mace Point (East end of Savary) heading South towards Powell River. Pretty neat – they were wake riding.

Gordie Coles, Savary Island / Lund

July 7:

1650 hours Approximately 18 PWS Dolphins at East end of Hole in the Wall feeding.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 7:

About 5:30 pm 25 to 40 PWS Dolphins transited Southbound quickly off Armour Road, Myrtle Rocks area of Powell River.

While Nina was calling in this report, she was surprised to look out her window to see another group of Orca! Probably following/chasing the Dolphins. - SM

6:10 pm Another group of Orca suddenly popped up moving quickly South off Myrtle Rocks, Powell River. There were definitely 5 females and a couple of others. (while still on the phone – SM) Oh look, a Breach....Another breach!! Lots of splashing about. (She went to watch - SM)

Nina Falls, Powell River

July 6:

Around 7:30 am Orca chasing PWS Dolphins by Pryce Channel. The Dolphins disappeared, but not before one was taken by the Transient Orca.

Aaron, Eagle Master, Sonora Lodge

July 5:

9 am PWS Dolphins headed South by Refuge Cove.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 5:

10 am Large number of Pacific White Sided Dolphins by the Rendezvous Islands off towards Redonda Bay.

Radio

Dall's Porpoise

July 7:

3:30 pm 4 Dall's Porpoise by Hall Point in Cordero Channel.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

Sightings, Photos and Links

Very brief summary, and some photos, I'm afraid. I've run out of time to do a full report again, but will make sure the details are all in the next report. Below you'll find a couple of links that I received with Transient Orca with a large group of Pacific White Sided Dolphins in Hyacinth Bay, off Heriot Bay, Quadra Island taken in June and another with Transient Orca, Harbour Seal and a sport fishing boat just off Nanaimo.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Summary Reports

Transient Orca (Bigg's Killer Whale)

Lying on back in play - July 4, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 6:

Very early report of Transient Orca by Pryce Channel, again just above Desolation Sound. They chased some PWS Dolphins. Again, they seem to have split up with some going down Beazley Pass and Hoskyns Channel. No word at the time of writing this as to where the rest of them got to. One Humpback Whale was spotted in Seymour Narrows headed North-West which may be the same one that's just appeared at the Okisollo side of Hole in the Wall while another Humpback is at the Calm Channel side of Hole in the Wall. Transients are just inside Drew Harbour / Heriot Bay, Rebecca Spit, Quadra Island.

Transient Orca (Bigg's Killer Whale)

Breach - July 4, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 5:

Transient Orca first spotted at the top of Lewis Channel, just above Desolation Sound. A large group of PWS Dolphins took off in a hurry. Some the Orca headed down through Beazley Pass and some were spotted off Bliss Landing, just above Lund in the early evening. There were also Humpback Whales by Squirrel Cove and another off Cape Mudge.

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

July 4, 2012

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

Links

Transient Orca with Pacific White Sided Dolphins – off Quadra Island

http://www.grindtv.com/outdoor/blog/33983/pacific+white-sided+dolphins+take+flight+to+evade+killer+whales/

Transient Orca with Harbour Seal – off Nanaimo

http://bctough.com/?p=710

Brown Pelican (Photo too) and lots of Cetacean Sightings

Wow! Another great, unusual sighting for this area! A Brown Pelican and photo for proof! There have also been a lot of Cetacean sightings. We have a very active area what with Sea Otters, Pelican, Orca, Humpback Whales, Pacific White Sided Dolphins, Dall's and Harbour Porpoise, what's next, a penguin? There have been turtles around, and based on what we're seeing, it may not be a bad idea to keep a good look out for them. Penguins, well, not so much, but you never know!

Happy July 4^th Independence Day to our American Friends!

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Brown Pelican

Handsome Brown Pelican

July 4, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 4: 8 am Nick got a call from a friend that there was a Brown Pelican by Mitlenatch Island. Sighting of this Brown Pelican in the photo was just off Marina Island. This is very unusual for our area. Garry said he last saw one about 4 years ago. SM

Transient Orca (Bigg's Killer Whales)

July 4:

8 am Orca reported just South of the Red Can Buoy (Cape Mudge) heading South from a fishing guide “Ritchie Rich” friend.

9:30 am 3 Orca in Deepwater Bay, Discovery Passage. First report from Tommy, Inlet Transporter –(Scotty found them.)

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

For those of you that have wondered, Scotty, Painter's Lodge is currently the first of the whale watching/tour vessels off the dock in the morning. He is our”go to” guy with a keen eye and great at letting everyone know what he finds in his early travels. Thanks Scotty! SM

July 4:

9 am Orca by McMullen Point from a transport buddy. Just milling.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 4:

10:23 am Orca update: 2 groups combined near Eagle's Cove and are now Southbound against the tide. There's 9 or 10 total – Scotty, Kurt and Jen are on scene.

Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 4:

2 pm (approx) Left Orcas incl. T100's close to the Vancouver Island side 2 miles south of Eagle's Cove.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 4:

2:15 pm Orca right in front of Campbell River heading South very quickly. Large porpoising and splashes.

Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching

Transient Orca (Bigg's Killer Whale)

Porpoising after food – Dall's Porpoise

July 4, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 4:

3:18 pm Orca by Red Can Buoy off Cape Mudge Southbound.

6:13 pm 12 Orca, T100's, T101 & T102, plus the T86A's are splashing and breaching 2 1/2 miles off Vancouver Island headed South-East towards Savary Island.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 4:

5:30 pm 4-6 orcas sighted 2 km N. Of Grant Reefs, off Savary Island buoy going west right now.

(Note: above report has Orca South-East bound and here we have some headed North-West – they were probably meeting up - SM)
Ron Johnston, Savary Island

July 4:

6:44 pm 5 Orca off Savary Island Southbound about mid channel between Vancouver Island and Savary.

Geri Batchelor, Savary Island

July 4:

6:51 pm 2 Big Male Orcas just below Sentry Shoal heading North-West very quickly. We just sat down to dinner on our deck – great treat.

7:45 pm There are more Orca lots of splashes on either side of Sentry Shoal from our view. Mostly they appear to be on the Savary side of Sentry Shoal and heading North-West out of our view.

Dee Ingraham, Savary Island

July 3:

A friend told me that she watched 2 adult orcas and 2 babies in front of the Westview viewpoint (Powell River) to nunnery Tuesday at 1400hours. She said they were playing and breaching, and when speedboats arrived, they moved off toward Texada. At about 1545 I picked up some blows beside the light at Blubber Bay, (Texada Island) but I lost them without ever really seeing a fin.

Sherri Wretham, Powell River

Humpback Whales

July 4:

9 am 2 Humpbacks 3 cables (a cable is 1/10 th of a nautical mile – SM) off the Green Can Buoy (Cape Mudge) heading East.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 4:

7:15 pm One Humpback Whale just off the North-West corner of Mitlenatch Island, not doing much of anything. It appears to be a non-fluker (opinion: could be 'Crescent' who doesn't show the bottom of his/her tail flukes very often and was in the area yesterday when Nick did get a rare fluke photo. - SM)

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

Wake Riding July 4, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 4:

1:26 pm 100+ PWS Dolphins by Horn Point, Dent Rapids.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 4:

1:56 pm Couple of hundred PWS Dolphins spread out by the entrance to Hole in the Wall. Nice.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

2:30 pm (approx) There were a few Dolphins splashing about, just off the Powell River Harbour.

Al Wood, Lund Water Taxi

Dall's and Harbour Porpoise

July 4:

Time?? The Transient (Bigg's) Orca photo Garry sent in, shows a Dall's Porpoise dorsal beside the Orca. Transients are known to eat Dall's Porpoise and perhaps with the various splashing, the little Dall's wasn't even noted as being there and being considered as lunch.

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

July 4:

12:43 pm 2-3 Harbour Porpoise slowly cruising North along shoreline by Willow Point near Simms Creek.

Tara Bladon, Campbell River

And a nice comment:

I just read the blog with my morning coffee, something I look forward to each day, so thanks for all your hard work Susan!! :)

Looking at the last blog, I was really excited to read about the Sea Otter spotted... wow! And with pics!! What a special ecosystem we live in.

Have a great day! Talk/text soon :)

Tara

Thanks Tara for all your great reporting! Susan

Sunshine Coast Orca Sightings

Transient Orca (Bigg's Killer Whales) are popping up everywhere, even in English Bay. The 6 Orca in English Bay, Vancouver on July 2^nd were identified as the T49's. All over the inside waters of the Georgia Strait, there are reports of Transient Orca from English Bay, Sechelt, Powell River, Campbell River and all the channels and inlets. WOW! The Humpback Whales continue to be in the Campbell River area and the Pacific White Sided Dolphins are in and out of the various channels. There are also a couple of reports of the smallest cetaceans, Dall's and Harbour Porpoises.

A reminder to all: Please do not assume that I have already heard of a sightings report. See below – I only heard after the fact so could not confirm who we may have had here. It's better to receive twenty reports of the same sighting than none at all....They are here, so keep your eyes open, and report please!

Susan MacKay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Transient Orca – Bigg's Killer Whales

Transient Orca – we love those baby photos!

July 3, 2012

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 3:

11:48 am Orca South of Whaletown, Cortez Island headed North. T20 and T21 plus another.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 3:

1:20 pm Killer Whales at Carrington Bay, Cortez Island headed for Penn Islands, Hoskyns Channel. At 1520 hrs T100's, T101's and T102 grouped up and started to head SE up Pryce Channel for Toba Inlet. (above from text messages - SM)

Later email see also Humpback Report:

Hello all, Nice tour today! Just out for a short one and we went out to a report of KW's around the Penn Islands. We arrived on scene @ approx 1330 hrs to find the T100's and T101/102 gangs spread out. These are part of what I am now calling our "Usual Suspects" as they have been around our area in part with other gangs all spring. We followed as they slowly made their way N/E up Deer Passage and left them at the entrance to Pryce Channel. We left the scene @ 1450 hrs.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 3:

1:49 pm Orca frolicking just at the foot of Nootka Street, Westview, Powell River. They've been there for quite a while. Just wanted to make sure you knew.

John Treen, Powell River

July 3:

At 2:25 pm,Tuesday, July 3, 2012 I spotted a small group of Orcas inside the Trail Islands (Sechelt) traveling towards Pender Harbour. I could see only three fins to be sure. One very large, one medium and one small. I am wondering if this might be the group that was in English Bay? (Possibly, unfortunately, without photos to identify them, it's difficult to say - SM) They moved along very moderately, I was thrilled to have seen them. I’ve been watching the water in front of our house very intently, waiting for this. It’s always a thrill.

Judy from Sechelt

July 3:

5:45 pm 4 Orca 3 larger and one very small out in front here. (Powell River) But you probably already knew. They've been in front for most of the day and heard that they were here yesterday too.

Judy Brant, Powell River

July 2:

10:17 am 2+ Orca between Harwood and Westview ferry terminal in Powell River. They headed South.

Gladys Raven and Friends, Powell River

Regarding July 1^st Orca Sightings:

Rundown on larger Gang of Killer Whales yesterday off of Marina Island was the T002C's/T100's/T101's and T102. 13 animals according to the book. Second Gang I had at top of Whale Passage was T090/090B/090C and T086A/086A1/086A3 Cheers!

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

Humpback Whales

Humpback known as 'Crescent' BCX1258

July 3, 2012

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 3:

8:30 am A Humpback is swimming North by Brown's Bay – hard and shallow. 10:47 am Humpback is by Chatham Point Westing – Jack with it. There's another Humpback at the red can buoy heading to the green can buoy. (Texts can be very abbreviated, and I believe Scotty meant the buoys off of Cape Mudge - SM)

Scotty, Painters Lodge

July 3:

4:58 pm Sounds like 2 Humpback Whales in Deepwater Bay, Discovery Pass. I'm on my way to find them. Also, 4 – 5 PWS Dolphins by Jimmy Judd Island, Yuculta Rapids. There's a very small newborn calf. Believe the Humpbacks were KC and ?Nick?. Got them by Separation Head and left them at 1800 hrs Southbound into Plumper Bay. (from text messages – SM)

Later Email see also Orca Report:

On our way home we found these two Humpbacks in Deepwater Bay on the Quadra Island shoreline of Discovery Passage. On scene @1740 and away @ 1810hrs. They slowly worked their way around Separation Head light and into Plumper Bay. I recognize the one as "KC" if i am not mistaken but don't recognize the other. I'm sure you can clear that up for us Jackie! Cheers! (Jackie Hildering confirmed 'Crescent' BCX1258)

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 2:

10 am A Humpback Whale just breached off the Cape Mudge Lighthouse! After a few tail slaps, it headed North into Discovery Pass. 10:51 It's now at the Discovery Pier. There's 2 groups of Harbour Porpoise too. 11:19 am There's now 2 Humpbacks together and they just changed direction to head South, for now. They're near Quathiaski Cove, Quadra Island. They stayed in that same area – feeding maybe. 1 pm They're still here, between Quathiaski Cove and the Village no direction. Saw one more tail slap, but no more breaches. 1:39 pm They're quickly heading South now towards the Cape Mudge Lighthouse. 2:32 pm Humpbacks changed direction again at Cape Mudge and are now heading back North. I'm now watching from home rather than car. It was awesome! I'm so happy to have spent all this time with them :) That breach seen from our condo was so neat... too far away to see the whale (naked eye), but the splash was impressive!!!

Tara Bladon, Campbell River

July 2:

1:40 pm Humpback off Cape Mudge lighthouse. Then late in the afternoon, on the return to harbour from our tour, we found the Humpback again just off Grouse Island, between the Cape Mudge Village and Quathiaski Cove. Only found one of the two, Northbound.

Garry, Aboriginal Journeys

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

July 3:

4:58 pm Sounds like 2 Humpback Whales in Deepwater Bay. I'm on my way to find them. Also, 4 – 5 PWS Dolphins by Jimmy Judd Island, Yuculta Rapids. There's a very small newborn calf.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 2:

9:57 am 20 PWS Dolphins Eastbound by Bute Inlet.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 2:

11:12 am PWS Dolphins no numbers by Eagles Cove heading North.

Aaron, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 2:

2:45 pm About 100 + PWS Dolphins Southbound by Deepwater Bay, Discovery Pass. On the return trip, found them again and left them at 4:30 pm at Seymour Narrows.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 2:

5:28 pm PWS Dolphins about 100 of them all spread out between Brown's Bay and Separation Head, Discovery Pass. They're just milling about. Also, at 6:55 pm found some more PWS Dolphins by Granite Point heading North.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

Dall's and Harbour Porpoise

Dall's Porpoise

2012

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 2:

8:15 am 6 Dall's Porpoise in front of Campbell River Harbour.

Scotty, Painter's Lodge

July 2:

10:51 am (from Humpback Report) There's 2 groups of Harbour Porpoise too.

(off Discovery Pier, Campbell River)

Tara Bladon, Campbell River

Rare Sea Otter Sighting and Photos plus Cetaceans

Big Excitement! A Sea Otter – we haven't seen one in this part of the Georgia Strait since before my time; and says a lot in a very few words! I realize that it may not be a Whale, Dolphin or Porpoise, but it's a very important sighting in our ocean. Perhaps we should call him/her “Canada” in honour of Canada Day. As for the Cetaceans, there have been a lot... Orca, Humpbacks, Pacific White Sided Dolphins and the little Harbour and Dall's Porpoise again seem to be dropped. Their sightings may not be as spectacular, but the reports are just as important.

PS. Happy Canada Day to all.

Susan Mackay, Whales and Dolphins BC

Sea Otter

July 1:

2:43 pm Sea Otter - On our way across Sutil Channel from Francisco Point on Quadra Island I looked to the left as I was going by and had to do a double take!! I knew it wasn't a river otter and having worked on the West coast and spending 6 months with Sea Otters out of Tofino knew exactly what i was looking at!! I am really curious is this the first documented sighting in the central inside coast??? I wish we could have stayed with him/her longer but of course the guests wanted to see the whales. Directly across from this guy's line of travel was a gang of Killer Whales consisting of the T002C's, T101/102 gangs plus others. They were no more then a 1/4 mile away.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

Sea Otter in Sutil Channel

July 1, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

Sea Otter in Sutil Channel

July 1, 2012

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

Transient (Bigg's) Orca

July 1:

9:45 am 5 Orca coming out of Mayne Passage by Ripple Point heading West up Johnstone Strait. They continued West.

Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 1:

10:15 am 7 to 9 Orca spread out by Beazely Pass in Hoskyns Channel. They sort of headed towards Beazley Pass, but seem to be unsure.

Jen, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 1:

12:30 pm The Orca had turned back down the channel, South, and were now down by Hoskyns Rock and Dunsterville Island spread out. By 1 pm they were still heading slowly south by Viner Point towards Marina Island. There appears to be more Orca – now up to 12 at least – including T02C's.

Radio between Aaron, CRWW and Garry, Aboriginal Journeys

July 1:

3:51 pm Just found Transient Orca T086A gang plus 2. 6 Orca in total. They're Northbound at the top of Whale Passage headed along Reid Island shore for Drew Passage. 4:59 pm Leaving T086A's and T090's finishing a forage at the bottom of South Rendezvous Island. No direction.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

July 1:

5:56 pm Left the Orca Southbound at the South end of Mitlenatch Island 45 minutes ago. What a day for Orca! All over the place and the Sea Otter was the icing on the cake!

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

Big Dorsal of Male Transient (Bigg's) Killer Whale

July 1, 2012

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

June 30:

8:35 pm Couple of Orcas passed by Grief Point at 8:35. Moving slow and heading south.

Heather Dickson, Powell River

Humpback Whales

July 1:

6:30 am 2 Humpback Whales heading North by Steep Island in Seymour Narrows.

Radio

July 1:

10:15 am Found the 2 Humpbacks.

Aaron, Campbell River Whale Watching

June 30:

4:20 pm “Big Whale” between Mitlenatch and Savary Island.

Radio

June 30:

4:30 pm Humpbacks in Baker Pass.

Aaron, Campbell River Whale Watching

Pacific White Sided Dolphins

July 1:

8:55 am PWS Dolphins – no great numbers – in lower Bute Inlet by Fawn Bluffs.

Aaron, Eagle Master, Sonora Lodge

July 1:

10 am 20 PWS Dolphins just out in front of the pier at Campbell River Northbound.

Radio

July 1:

11:30 am 6 PWS Dolphins heading North by Brown's Bay.

Garry Henkel, Aboriginal Journeys

July 1:

6:17 pm 25 to 30 PWS Dolphins by Copper Bluffs drifting Northwards.

Jack Springer, Campbell River Whale Watching

July 1:

6:17 pm PWS Dolphins close to Okisollo Channel, between Howe Island and Greensea Bay.

Nick Templeman, Eagle Eye Adventures

June 30:

10:40 am A few Hundred Pacific White Sided Dolphins heading towards Jimmy Judd Island in the Yucultas – There's an Eagle feeding frenzy on fish in the currents show almost every day.

Kurt, Campbell River Whale Watching