30 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
Just after writing the last report the A30s started calling in Johnstone Strait. The A12s are still making their way to Blackfish Sound. It sounded from the blows as if A12 and A33 were out in front with the A34s following.
Helena
30 Sep 2006 06:31:51 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s have now followed the path of the A12s up to CP and the entrance of Blackney Pass. A large tug heading south through Blackney Pass will soon drown out the nice calls for a while. The A12s seem to have continued west from Blackfish Sound.
Helena
30 Sep 2006 08:54:39 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Just a short while ago there were fairly close dolphin vocals on Critical Point. Apparently, 400+ dolphins came into Johnstone Strait last night. Some went through Weynton Pass and just before midnight a small group wer in Blackney Pass. The A30s have left the Strait. They travelled through Blackney Pass to the north. They breached 15 times in a row and then a few more times before leaving our view to the north. They have just started calling. The A12s are further west in Queen Charlotte Strait foraging and milling.
Helena
30 Sep 2006 11:44:14 PDT
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Friday, September 29, 2006
29 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Calls ended around 1:30am when the A30s passed offshore of the rubbing beaches and continued east. We lost track of the A12s when they were passing the entrance to Blackney Pass around 8:30pm. It is possible they continued along with the A30s or did something completely different. It will be interesting today to see what happens.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 08:41:52 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales are on their way back to the west via the rubbing beaches. They don't sound too, too energetic yet.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 09:09:27 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Westward to Robson Bight! It was the A30s who touched in for a nice rub before continuing west. The day is trying to be foggy but still patchy.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 09:57:43 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s continued "up" the Strait and are now mid strait between Kaikash Creek and Blinkhorn. The A12s are following and have reached the "Pig Ranch" (near the Sophia Island east of CP). They are also mid strait.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 13:08:58 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s followed the A12s into Blackney Pass. The calls are wonderful! The whales are very excited, breaching as they go. Company coming?
Helena
29 Sep 2006 14:33:24 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s and the A30s are now in Blackfish Sound. A tug is heading south now through Blackney.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 14:45:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sorrry, around 5:20pm the A12s and the A30s were seen travelling toward Johnstone Strai via Weynton Passage (thanks to the MapleLeaf). They have arrived in the Strait and have been calling since entering and travelling east.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 18:52:31 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Moving on, the A30s and the A12s have steadily moved closer to Robson Bight on their journey eastward.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 20:49:35 PDT
No orcas present.
Calls ended around 1:30am when the A30s passed offshore of the rubbing beaches and continued east. We lost track of the A12s when they were passing the entrance to Blackney Pass around 8:30pm. It is possible they continued along with the A30s or did something completely different. It will be interesting today to see what happens.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 08:41:52 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales are on their way back to the west via the rubbing beaches. They don't sound too, too energetic yet.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 09:09:27 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Westward to Robson Bight! It was the A30s who touched in for a nice rub before continuing west. The day is trying to be foggy but still patchy.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 09:57:43 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s continued "up" the Strait and are now mid strait between Kaikash Creek and Blinkhorn. The A12s are following and have reached the "Pig Ranch" (near the Sophia Island east of CP). They are also mid strait.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 13:08:58 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s followed the A12s into Blackney Pass. The calls are wonderful! The whales are very excited, breaching as they go. Company coming?
Helena
29 Sep 2006 14:33:24 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s and the A30s are now in Blackfish Sound. A tug is heading south now through Blackney.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 14:45:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sorrry, around 5:20pm the A12s and the A30s were seen travelling toward Johnstone Strai via Weynton Passage (thanks to the MapleLeaf). They have arrived in the Strait and have been calling since entering and travelling east.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 18:52:31 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Moving on, the A30s and the A12s have steadily moved closer to Robson Bight on their journey eastward.
Helena
29 Sep 2006 20:49:35 PDT
Thursday, September 28, 2006
28 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
Back to the Bight. The A30s have moved eastward once more and are back within the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 02:22:55 PDT
No orcas present.
The A12s after reaching Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass continued east and passed Robson Bight by 5am. The A30s had passed Robson Bight earlier around 2:30am.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 08:35:25 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Swinging back to the west with a stop over at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 10:11:29 PDT
Orcas near mics.
And now up to Robson Bight and the west beyond.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 10:46:14 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s and the A30s are continuing westward past the entrance to Blackney Pass. They are favouring the Hanson Island side of the Strait.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 12:47:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are now in Blackfish Sound after travelling north together through Blackney Pass. The A12s followed and are now 1/2 the distance through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. Like the A30s they are silent and travelling close to each other. Sunny clear afternoon.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 16:09:57 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
At least the A12s came back to the Strait via Weynton Pass. They are silent now but most likely continuing eastward past CP etc.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 21:18:59 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are there as well!
Helena
28 Sep 2006 21:37:00 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Back to the Bight. The A30s have moved eastward once more and are back within the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 02:22:55 PDT
No orcas present.
The A12s after reaching Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass continued east and passed Robson Bight by 5am. The A30s had passed Robson Bight earlier around 2:30am.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 08:35:25 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Swinging back to the west with a stop over at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 10:11:29 PDT
Orcas near mics.
And now up to Robson Bight and the west beyond.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 10:46:14 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s and the A30s are continuing westward past the entrance to Blackney Pass. They are favouring the Hanson Island side of the Strait.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 12:47:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are now in Blackfish Sound after travelling north together through Blackney Pass. The A12s followed and are now 1/2 the distance through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. Like the A30s they are silent and travelling close to each other. Sunny clear afternoon.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 16:09:57 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
At least the A12s came back to the Strait via Weynton Pass. They are silent now but most likely continuing eastward past CP etc.
Helena
28 Sep 2006 21:18:59 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are there as well!
Helena
28 Sep 2006 21:37:00 PDT
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
27 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are once again headed back toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 04:31:46 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
And now at the beaches!
Helena
27 Sep 2006 06:31:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Bouncing back, the A30s are off the Ecological Reserve heading west.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 10:05:08 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Actually the A30s are further along & probably past the Reserve.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 10:15:30 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have been spread out while they travelled west. They got just shy of Blinkhorn before they turned back to the east. Very foggy this morning so thanks to Stubbs Island for this report.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 11:28:23 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s are at the Beaches.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 15:08:00 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After a satisfying rub the A30s turned back to the west and have just passed Critical Point. The fog lifted for 1/2 hour, glorious blue sky & sea, now a sunny grey day again.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 15:41:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s finally wrenched themselves from the area around Robson Bight and moved on to the west. They are past CP & the entrance of Blackney Pass and continuing westward.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 19:07:20 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are once again headed back toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 04:31:46 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
And now at the beaches!
Helena
27 Sep 2006 06:31:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Bouncing back, the A30s are off the Ecological Reserve heading west.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 10:05:08 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Actually the A30s are further along & probably past the Reserve.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 10:15:30 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have been spread out while they travelled west. They got just shy of Blinkhorn before they turned back to the east. Very foggy this morning so thanks to Stubbs Island for this report.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 11:28:23 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s are at the Beaches.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 15:08:00 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After a satisfying rub the A30s turned back to the west and have just passed Critical Point. The fog lifted for 1/2 hour, glorious blue sky & sea, now a sunny grey day again.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 15:41:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s finally wrenched themselves from the area around Robson Bight and moved on to the west. They are past CP & the entrance of Blackney Pass and continuing westward.
Helena
27 Sep 2006 19:07:20 PDT
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
26 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas relaxing.
Very infrequent resting calls from the western end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 11:02:50 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, who spent the morning off the western end of Blackfish Sound, finally moved on to Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. The A12s have not showed up but last night we had the impression that they may have slipped back to the east past robson Bight. The tide is just turning to the flood.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 13:29:47 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are calling as they travel eastward.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 14:08:36 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s continued east to the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 17:17:11 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Starting at 6:40 the A30s moved past Critical Point to the west. They came up as far as the entrance to Blackney Pass before they turned back again.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 20:02:27 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s have been hanging out not too far from Robson Bight. The boat noise (this boat is taking forever) has now become quite loud as the boat nears Critical Point. The A30s may have gone around Critical Point to the east.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 22:27:54 PDT
Orcas relaxing.
Very infrequent resting calls from the western end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 11:02:50 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, who spent the morning off the western end of Blackfish Sound, finally moved on to Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. The A12s have not showed up but last night we had the impression that they may have slipped back to the east past robson Bight. The tide is just turning to the flood.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 13:29:47 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are calling as they travel eastward.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 14:08:36 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s continued east to the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 17:17:11 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Starting at 6:40 the A30s moved past Critical Point to the west. They came up as far as the entrance to Blackney Pass before they turned back again.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 20:02:27 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s have been hanging out not too far from Robson Bight. The boat noise (this boat is taking forever) has now become quite loud as the boat nears Critical Point. The A30s may have gone around Critical Point to the east.
Helena
26 Sep 2006 22:27:54 PDT
Monday, September 25, 2006
25 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas near mics.
The A30s may have company. The A12s are entering Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 00:38:47 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s sound as if they were closer to Critical Point as the a12s went around Cracroft Point. There is quite the exchange going on at the moment as the groups meet up in the Strait.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 00:45:15 PDT
Distant calls audible.
What a long conversattion! The A12s and the A30s remained in Johnstone Strait for the night, moving mostly back and forth within the area east of CP.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 07:57:51 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A12s are approaching the entrance of Blackney Pass from the east. The A30s may still be further east of them.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 09:14:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s and the A30s headed into Blackney Pass from the Strait and are now on their way to Blackfish Sound.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 09:43:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s and the A30s did not go very far into Queen Charlotte Strait this morning. They have been shifting around the area off of Stubbs Island, Donegal Head and Bold Head. Together for part of the time they have split into their respective groups crossing the western end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 14:10:13 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We believe the A12s decided for Weynton Pass as a route to the Strait. The A30s are still at the western end of Blackfish Sound, undecided.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 14:39:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A12s are now off CP. Still wondering what the A30s will do.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 15:42:29 PDT
No orcas present.
The A12s moved off of CP and headed to the Ecological Reserve and possibly kept going east from there. The A30s may have headed off to Queen Charlotte Strait and the west. All has been quiet since the A12s neared Critical Point.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 20:13:12 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s may have company. The A12s are entering Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 00:38:47 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s sound as if they were closer to Critical Point as the a12s went around Cracroft Point. There is quite the exchange going on at the moment as the groups meet up in the Strait.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 00:45:15 PDT
Distant calls audible.
What a long conversattion! The A12s and the A30s remained in Johnstone Strait for the night, moving mostly back and forth within the area east of CP.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 07:57:51 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A12s are approaching the entrance of Blackney Pass from the east. The A30s may still be further east of them.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 09:14:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s and the A30s headed into Blackney Pass from the Strait and are now on their way to Blackfish Sound.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 09:43:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s and the A30s did not go very far into Queen Charlotte Strait this morning. They have been shifting around the area off of Stubbs Island, Donegal Head and Bold Head. Together for part of the time they have split into their respective groups crossing the western end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 14:10:13 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We believe the A12s decided for Weynton Pass as a route to the Strait. The A30s are still at the western end of Blackfish Sound, undecided.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 14:39:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A12s are now off CP. Still wondering what the A30s will do.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 15:42:29 PDT
No orcas present.
The A12s moved off of CP and headed to the Ecological Reserve and possibly kept going east from there. The A30s may have headed off to Queen Charlotte Strait and the west. All has been quiet since the A12s neared Critical Point.
Helena
25 Sep 2006 20:13:12 PDT
Sunday, September 24, 2006
24 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
It was quiet over night. The A30s are fairlyelusive. We were last aware of them off of CP just after the A12s went through Blackney Pass around 6pm.
Helena
24 Sep 2006 08:59:52 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
After the briefest of rubs the A30s have rounded the "corner" at Critical Point on their way west.
Helena
24 Sep 2006 16:30:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are very hard to track these days because of the infrequency of their calls. The last calls we are certain about were on Parson Island. Which direction did they choose?
Helena
24 Sep 2006 20:22:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
This is better! The A30s are still in Johnstone Strait, probably now headed eastward. The calls are frequent and getting stronger.
Helena
24 Sep 2006 21:21:02 PDT
No orcas present.
It was quiet over night. The A30s are fairlyelusive. We were last aware of them off of CP just after the A12s went through Blackney Pass around 6pm.
Helena
24 Sep 2006 08:59:52 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
After the briefest of rubs the A30s have rounded the "corner" at Critical Point on their way west.
Helena
24 Sep 2006 16:30:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are very hard to track these days because of the infrequency of their calls. The last calls we are certain about were on Parson Island. Which direction did they choose?
Helena
24 Sep 2006 20:22:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
This is better! The A30s are still in Johnstone Strait, probably now headed eastward. The calls are frequent and getting stronger.
Helena
24 Sep 2006 21:21:02 PDT
Saturday, September 23, 2006
23 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Starting around 10:30pm last night we heard A1 calls up until 3am in Johnstone Strait. Possibly the A30s moved back to the east. They were off CP around 12:40am but afterwards the picture of their movements is less clear as the calls remained distant for the rest of the time.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 08:38:42 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30 were located a short while ago. They have been leading another group west. The whales have just arrived in range of our hydrophone as they entered the Main rubbing beach.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 11:33:57 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
A possible correction. We have been hearing the A12s first so perhaps the A30s are further down the line. The rub has just started.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 11:44:30 PDT
Orcas near mics.
While the A12s and the A30s neared CP a fairly large group of Transients (including the T18s) circled around Hanson Island and entered Blackney Pass. They are now well on their way to Blackfish Sound while the A12s and the A30s forage off of Cracroft Point and the entrance to Blackney Pass. The transients are silent, the residents very vocal.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 15:12:59 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s have gone through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. The A30s stayed in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 17:16:15 PDT
No orcas present.
Starting around 10:30pm last night we heard A1 calls up until 3am in Johnstone Strait. Possibly the A30s moved back to the east. They were off CP around 12:40am but afterwards the picture of their movements is less clear as the calls remained distant for the rest of the time.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 08:38:42 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30 were located a short while ago. They have been leading another group west. The whales have just arrived in range of our hydrophone as they entered the Main rubbing beach.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 11:33:57 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
A possible correction. We have been hearing the A12s first so perhaps the A30s are further down the line. The rub has just started.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 11:44:30 PDT
Orcas near mics.
While the A12s and the A30s neared CP a fairly large group of Transients (including the T18s) circled around Hanson Island and entered Blackney Pass. They are now well on their way to Blackfish Sound while the A12s and the A30s forage off of Cracroft Point and the entrance to Blackney Pass. The transients are silent, the residents very vocal.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 15:12:59 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s have gone through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. The A30s stayed in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
23 Sep 2006 17:16:15 PDT
Friday, September 22, 2006
22 September Orcalab reports:
Orcas hunting fish.
We began hearing echolocation on the Critic Point hydrophone a short while ago. The A30s have been reported heading west in Johnstone Strait and were near Naka Creek an hour or so ago, so they are probably now in Robson Bight, fishing.
Helena
22 Sep 2006 15:40:36 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s carried on west "up" Johnstone Strait past Kaikash Creek.
Helena
22 Sep 2006 18:53:50 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A1 calls again in the Strait.
Helena
22 Sep 2006 22:02:09 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
We began hearing echolocation on the Critic Point hydrophone a short while ago. The A30s have been reported heading west in Johnstone Strait and were near Naka Creek an hour or so ago, so they are probably now in Robson Bight, fishing.
Helena
22 Sep 2006 15:40:36 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s carried on west "up" Johnstone Strait past Kaikash Creek.
Helena
22 Sep 2006 18:53:50 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A1 calls again in the Strait.
Helena
22 Sep 2006 22:02:09 PDT
Thursday, September 21, 2006
21 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have met up with the I31s and or the I11s. The groups are heading east now in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 07:10:13 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Both the A12s and the I11s are now in Johnstone Strait. The A12s travelled ahead of the I11s and after a brief vocal exchange the I11s followed the A12s through Blackney Pass. We had a report from Spirit of the West that two groups went east past their camp at Boat Bay this morning soon after we lost track of the A30s and the I31 calls in Johnstone Strait so this may have been these two groups.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 12:15:04 PDT
No orcas present.
We have not heard any calls since just before 3pm. We believe the I11s and the A12s moved off of CP to the east, following the A30s and the I31s.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 17:49:50 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have met up with the I31s and or the I11s. The groups are heading east now in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 07:10:13 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Both the A12s and the I11s are now in Johnstone Strait. The A12s travelled ahead of the I11s and after a brief vocal exchange the I11s followed the A12s through Blackney Pass. We had a report from Spirit of the West that two groups went east past their camp at Boat Bay this morning soon after we lost track of the A30s and the I31 calls in Johnstone Strait so this may have been these two groups.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 12:15:04 PDT
No orcas present.
We have not heard any calls since just before 3pm. We believe the I11s and the A12s moved off of CP to the east, following the A30s and the I31s.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 17:49:50 PDT
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
20 September Orcalab reports:
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s spent most of the morning of the western tip of Bold Head. They have just travelled south through Blackney Pass and are about to enter Johnstone Strait. They have been silent so far but were travelling at a nice moderate pace all together.
Helena
20 Sep 2006 11:46:54 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s went in for a rub. Meanwhile, a small group of transients travelled through Cllio Channel, out of Baronet Passage and into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
20 Sep 2006 15:21:56 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The transients turned out to be the rest of T2B's family. The Gikumi folowed T2, T2C and her calves into the Strait and left them heading east just east of CP. The A30s are continuing east from the Reserve.
Helena
20 Sep 2006 15:41:03 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s were not very vocal all of today and so we do not have a lot of confidence in which direction they have ended up in at the moment. It is possible they kept to the east but we will wait and see. Perhaps their low keyed day was a reaction to all the intensity of being in such a large crowd for so long. Time to kick back, relax and take it easy!
Helena
20 Sep 2006 22:45:17 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s spent most of the morning of the western tip of Bold Head. They have just travelled south through Blackney Pass and are about to enter Johnstone Strait. They have been silent so far but were travelling at a nice moderate pace all together.
Helena
20 Sep 2006 11:46:54 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s went in for a rub. Meanwhile, a small group of transients travelled through Cllio Channel, out of Baronet Passage and into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
20 Sep 2006 15:21:56 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The transients turned out to be the rest of T2B's family. The Gikumi folowed T2, T2C and her calves into the Strait and left them heading east just east of CP. The A30s are continuing east from the Reserve.
Helena
20 Sep 2006 15:41:03 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s were not very vocal all of today and so we do not have a lot of confidence in which direction they have ended up in at the moment. It is possible they kept to the east but we will wait and see. Perhaps their low keyed day was a reaction to all the intensity of being in such a large crowd for so long. Time to kick back, relax and take it easy!
Helena
20 Sep 2006 22:45:17 PDT
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
19 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
Just now we have been listening to A1 calls (the A30s) in Johnstone Strait near Robson Bight. Last night was a bit of a puzzle. Groups (the A30s, I15s, G and I31s definitely came out of the east and headed for Cracroft Point and the entrance to Blackney Pass. For a time it sounded like some of the whales entered Blackney Pass. This is when it became confusing. It was not clear if whales went all the way through Blackney Passor returned to the Strait. The A30s and the I15s stayed in the Strait.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 07:21:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The plot thickens. The A12s are in Blackfish Sound! The A30s are in the Strait.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 07:53:05 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s headed east to the rubbing beaches where they are right now. The A12s are still in Blackfish Sound but seem to be steadily getting more distant. Where is everyone else?
Helena
19 Sep 2006 08:56:07 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Just recently: very close echo location in the Bight. Is this the A30s coming back west again after their brief rub? We have not heard the A12s in Blackfish Sound for a while.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 09:42:19 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are slowly making their way west from Robson Bight and toward CP. Meanwhile, most of last night's mystery has been solved. It appears that the G clan "Crowd" did move out to the west last night. We suspect now that some took Blackney Pass while others Weynton Pass to reach Blackfish Sound and Queen Charlotte Strait beyond. They are currently spread out from Lizard Point back to Malcolm Point. They have been joined by the A36s. Did the A36s have anyone new with them? The map right now is not entirely accurate but it helps show the locations that the whales are near.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 12:24:03 PDT
No orcas present.
Hi, power was down in Alert Bay so it was difficult to post coments. A lot happened today. The "Crowd" (the A12s and G clan) moved off to the west this afternoon. As they did so two other events occured. The A30s moved to the west, got just past Big Bay and then turned around and went back to the east past Critical Point and a group of 6 transients moved into Blackfish Sound and east to the Strait. These were ( thanks to Jared Towers for the IDs) the T60s, T124C and T2B. T2B has a new calf and Jared informs us that the calf is less than 20 days old because he saw T2B without a calf that long ago. This is rather exciting! Right now all is quiet, whales dispersing in all sorts of different directions.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 19:49:42 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We think the A30s may have gone north through Blackney Pass.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 20:55:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Just now we have been listening to A1 calls (the A30s) in Johnstone Strait near Robson Bight. Last night was a bit of a puzzle. Groups (the A30s, I15s, G and I31s definitely came out of the east and headed for Cracroft Point and the entrance to Blackney Pass. For a time it sounded like some of the whales entered Blackney Pass. This is when it became confusing. It was not clear if whales went all the way through Blackney Passor returned to the Strait. The A30s and the I15s stayed in the Strait.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 07:21:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The plot thickens. The A12s are in Blackfish Sound! The A30s are in the Strait.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 07:53:05 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s headed east to the rubbing beaches where they are right now. The A12s are still in Blackfish Sound but seem to be steadily getting more distant. Where is everyone else?
Helena
19 Sep 2006 08:56:07 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Just recently: very close echo location in the Bight. Is this the A30s coming back west again after their brief rub? We have not heard the A12s in Blackfish Sound for a while.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 09:42:19 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are slowly making their way west from Robson Bight and toward CP. Meanwhile, most of last night's mystery has been solved. It appears that the G clan "Crowd" did move out to the west last night. We suspect now that some took Blackney Pass while others Weynton Pass to reach Blackfish Sound and Queen Charlotte Strait beyond. They are currently spread out from Lizard Point back to Malcolm Point. They have been joined by the A36s. Did the A36s have anyone new with them? The map right now is not entirely accurate but it helps show the locations that the whales are near.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 12:24:03 PDT
No orcas present.
Hi, power was down in Alert Bay so it was difficult to post coments. A lot happened today. The "Crowd" (the A12s and G clan) moved off to the west this afternoon. As they did so two other events occured. The A30s moved to the west, got just past Big Bay and then turned around and went back to the east past Critical Point and a group of 6 transients moved into Blackfish Sound and east to the Strait. These were ( thanks to Jared Towers for the IDs) the T60s, T124C and T2B. T2B has a new calf and Jared informs us that the calf is less than 20 days old because he saw T2B without a calf that long ago. This is rather exciting! Right now all is quiet, whales dispersing in all sorts of different directions.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 19:49:42 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We think the A30s may have gone north through Blackney Pass.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 20:55:12 PDT
Monday, September 18, 2006
18 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Nick Templeton relayed that the "Crowd" was westbound from Camp Point at around 2pm. The A30s, A12, G2s,G3,G12s,G18s,G17,G29s, I11s,I15s,I31s have been in the east for the last two days. The A36s were sighted (thanks to Discovery)quite far west in Queen Charlotte Strait today. They were foraging for most of the time observed.
Helena
18 Sep 2006 17:32:28 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
They are back! The groups are parading west past the Ecological Reseerve.
Helena
18 Sep 2006 22:18:56 PDT
No orcas present.
Nick Templeton relayed that the "Crowd" was westbound from Camp Point at around 2pm. The A30s, A12, G2s,G3,G12s,G18s,G17,G29s, I11s,I15s,I31s have been in the east for the last two days. The A36s were sighted (thanks to Discovery)quite far west in Queen Charlotte Strait today. They were foraging for most of the time observed.
Helena
18 Sep 2006 17:32:28 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
They are back! The groups are parading west past the Ecological Reseerve.
Helena
18 Sep 2006 22:18:56 PDT
Saturday, September 16, 2006
16 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, who spent most of the morning off of Donegal Head, moved to the west to join up with the larger group heading east at Lizard Point. All these whales are nearing Donegal Head and closer to being in range of the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 13:48:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are at the moment fixing the Flower Island hydrophone but we can still hear the I15s as they and the others head east from Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 15:11:18 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Today is the first time for this area that all of G clan has been together. The G17s arrived to complete the list! We just had a lovely pass of all the groups through Blackney Pass. The groups are all past CP now and continuing eastward toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 19:15:47 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As you have already guessed the whalesare at the rubbing beaches,
Helena
16 Sep 2006 21:06:22 PDT
No orcas present.
After the beaches the whales most likely continued east.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 22:23:03 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, who spent most of the morning off of Donegal Head, moved to the west to join up with the larger group heading east at Lizard Point. All these whales are nearing Donegal Head and closer to being in range of the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 13:48:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are at the moment fixing the Flower Island hydrophone but we can still hear the I15s as they and the others head east from Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 15:11:18 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Today is the first time for this area that all of G clan has been together. The G17s arrived to complete the list! We just had a lovely pass of all the groups through Blackney Pass. The groups are all past CP now and continuing eastward toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 19:15:47 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As you have already guessed the whalesare at the rubbing beaches,
Helena
16 Sep 2006 21:06:22 PDT
No orcas present.
After the beaches the whales most likely continued east.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 22:23:03 PDT
Friday, September 15, 2006
15 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Time to review: We now thinl that only the A12s, I15s,I11s, part of the I31s came in last night and met up with the A30s off of Ecological Reserve before continuing eastward out of range. Possibly the G2s were there as well but that is still unclear. This morning the rest of the "crowd" arrived going through Blackney Pass. These were the G12s, part of the I31s, the G3s,G18s,G29s and, of course, the A36s.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 13:46:27 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Thasnks to Discovery we know that the BIG CROWD has neared the Ecological Reserve on their way to the west. Might be exciting!
Helena
15 Sep 2006 15:27:09 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
They are just coming into range now.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 15:29:17 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups are moving westward,already past CP.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 17:54:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s are the last group to come back from the east. They are approaching CP at the moment. The other groups are still to the west of CP.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 18:42:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The "crowd" went through Weynton Pass and are now at the top end (western) end of Blackfish Sound. The tide has just turned to the flood.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 19:54:19 PDT
Orcas near mics.
If you are wondering? The A12s rushed through Blackney, no one else followed. They are now closing in on Robson Bight after heading east in the Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 21:45:20 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We are hearing whales move through Blackney Pass heading south. There are no calls yet so we cannot be sure who is following the A12s into the Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 23:10:48 PDT
No orcas present.
Time to review: We now thinl that only the A12s, I15s,I11s, part of the I31s came in last night and met up with the A30s off of Ecological Reserve before continuing eastward out of range. Possibly the G2s were there as well but that is still unclear. This morning the rest of the "crowd" arrived going through Blackney Pass. These were the G12s, part of the I31s, the G3s,G18s,G29s and, of course, the A36s.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 13:46:27 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Thasnks to Discovery we know that the BIG CROWD has neared the Ecological Reserve on their way to the west. Might be exciting!
Helena
15 Sep 2006 15:27:09 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
They are just coming into range now.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 15:29:17 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups are moving westward,already past CP.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 17:54:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s are the last group to come back from the east. They are approaching CP at the moment. The other groups are still to the west of CP.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 18:42:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The "crowd" went through Weynton Pass and are now at the top end (western) end of Blackfish Sound. The tide has just turned to the flood.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 19:54:19 PDT
Orcas near mics.
If you are wondering? The A12s rushed through Blackney, no one else followed. They are now closing in on Robson Bight after heading east in the Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 21:45:20 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We are hearing whales move through Blackney Pass heading south. There are no calls yet so we cannot be sure who is following the A12s into the Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 23:10:48 PDT
Thursday, September 14, 2006
14 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
The "crowd" came up to CP and the entrance of Blackney Pass and headed out to Blackfish Sound and beyond very quickly on the ebbing tide.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 00:43:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are listening to distant A1 calls from the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 07:39:19 PDT
No orcas present.
The whales have stayed pretty much in Queen Charlotte Strait all day but we got a report around 3pm from Stubbs Island Whale Watch that the A12s,A36s, I11s,I31s and the several other G clan groups are now moving eastward from Malcolm Point. The A30s spent the day very slowly moving toward that group and in Queen Charlotte Strait as well.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 16:03:42 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Welcome to OrcaLive! The A30s came through Blackney Pass this evening, travelling closely together and are now spread out foraging off of CP.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 19:19:04 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s have moved off the CP area and are now bound for the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 20:13:28 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Beautiful resting calls from the Gclan and A1s coming through Blackney Pass. They are travelling south toward Johnstone Strait. The A30s are quiet at the momnet but were recently in Robson Bight.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 21:43:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The "crowd" (described earlier by Stubbs Island: A12s,A36s,I11s,I31s,I33s,G02s, G12s, G18s G29s. G03s, I15s) are now past CP, following the A30s eastward.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 22:28:51 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The "crowd" came up to CP and the entrance of Blackney Pass and headed out to Blackfish Sound and beyond very quickly on the ebbing tide.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 00:43:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are listening to distant A1 calls from the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 07:39:19 PDT
No orcas present.
The whales have stayed pretty much in Queen Charlotte Strait all day but we got a report around 3pm from Stubbs Island Whale Watch that the A12s,A36s, I11s,I31s and the several other G clan groups are now moving eastward from Malcolm Point. The A30s spent the day very slowly moving toward that group and in Queen Charlotte Strait as well.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 16:03:42 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Welcome to OrcaLive! The A30s came through Blackney Pass this evening, travelling closely together and are now spread out foraging off of CP.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 19:19:04 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s have moved off the CP area and are now bound for the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 20:13:28 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Beautiful resting calls from the Gclan and A1s coming through Blackney Pass. They are travelling south toward Johnstone Strait. The A30s are quiet at the momnet but were recently in Robson Bight.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 21:43:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The "crowd" (described earlier by Stubbs Island: A12s,A36s,I11s,I31s,I33s,G02s, G12s, G18s G29s. G03s, I15s) are now past CP, following the A30s eastward.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 22:28:51 PDT
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
13 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
For us it was a quiet night and we suppose the I31s,A30s and the A12s went back to the east around midnight although the tide was still ebbing for a couple more hours. If they did move west, they did so pretty quietly. The map indicates where we last heard calls.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 07:50:41 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Just after 8:30am we heard the whales from the east arrive at the rubbing beaches. So far we have heard only A1 calls. Sounds like they are on their way west.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 08:49:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A1s have moved from the beaches and are now passing Robson Bight.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 09:15:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Possibly all the groups from the past few days are here, travelling west, together. We have heard all three A1 groups, I31s, possibly I11s and various other G groups as well.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 11:20:06 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The whales too two different routes to Blackfish Sound, some via Weynton Pass and others through Blackney Pass. All ended up at the top end of Blackfish Sound where they foraged and waited for the tide to turn. An hour before the slack they made their move and all came through Blackney Pass and on to Johnstone Strait. Now with the tide and the wind at their backs they are headed east towards the Ecological Reserve. A wonderfully blustery day, sunny, high waves and fluffy clouds!
Helena
13 Sep 2006 16:57:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After the A12s,A30s,A36s, I15s,I11s,I31s and the G3s,G29s, G18s, G12s, G2s got into Johnstone Strait thy headed soon off to the east. The A30s seemed rather restless but stayed as part of the crowd. They were rather quickly out of our range after a few good rubs.Just now, we started to hear distant A30 calls returning from the east.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 22:22:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It sounds like the A30s are pulling the whole crowd to the west.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 22:32:12 PDT
No orcas present.
For us it was a quiet night and we suppose the I31s,A30s and the A12s went back to the east around midnight although the tide was still ebbing for a couple more hours. If they did move west, they did so pretty quietly. The map indicates where we last heard calls.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 07:50:41 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Just after 8:30am we heard the whales from the east arrive at the rubbing beaches. So far we have heard only A1 calls. Sounds like they are on their way west.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 08:49:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A1s have moved from the beaches and are now passing Robson Bight.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 09:15:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Possibly all the groups from the past few days are here, travelling west, together. We have heard all three A1 groups, I31s, possibly I11s and various other G groups as well.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 11:20:06 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The whales too two different routes to Blackfish Sound, some via Weynton Pass and others through Blackney Pass. All ended up at the top end of Blackfish Sound where they foraged and waited for the tide to turn. An hour before the slack they made their move and all came through Blackney Pass and on to Johnstone Strait. Now with the tide and the wind at their backs they are headed east towards the Ecological Reserve. A wonderfully blustery day, sunny, high waves and fluffy clouds!
Helena
13 Sep 2006 16:57:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After the A12s,A30s,A36s, I15s,I11s,I31s and the G3s,G29s, G18s, G12s, G2s got into Johnstone Strait thy headed soon off to the east. The A30s seemed rather restless but stayed as part of the crowd. They were rather quickly out of our range after a few good rubs.Just now, we started to hear distant A30 calls returning from the east.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 22:22:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It sounds like the A30s are pulling the whole crowd to the west.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 22:32:12 PDT
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
12 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Not sure when it happened but all the groups are back in the Strait and already heading back to the west. CP can see groups on the Vancouver Island spread from Kaikash Creek and almost Blinkhorn! There must have been a alot of movement last night from the time after we heard the A12s pass through Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 07:25:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Around 8:30am these very interesting whales turned around a little shy of Blinkhorn. The I15s were first get get to the beaches and we suspect the A36s followed. There are whales spread out back to Critical Point and across the Strait - all moving eastward despite the ebbing tide (the tide turned at 8:30am as well). The Gikumi has found the A12s stalled off of Donegal Head. We believe the A30s,A36s,I15s,I11s,I31s,G2s,G3s,G29,G18s and G12s should be the groups in the Strait.
Helena
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing distant A12s (not a lot of calls) in Blackfish Sound. They apparently dropped into the western end of Blackfish for a bite to eat. The other groups are still eastbound past Naka Creek.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 13:12:46 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s went through Weynton Pass. They are now eastbound in Johnstone Strait. The other groups (the A30s,A36s, Gs, I11s, I15s and I31s) have continued eastward from Naka Creek.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 14:31:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After a lovely long foraging pause off of the entrance ot Blackney Pass and CP the A12s have finally moved off towards the east. We got a report that the G18s left all the other easbound groups off the Adams River earlier and are on their way back to the west.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 18:10:44 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It sounds like the A30s have returned from the east as well as the I31s (this was the group who joined the A12s at the beaches earlier).
Helena
12 Sep 2006 21:42:26 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Not sure when it happened but all the groups are back in the Strait and already heading back to the west. CP can see groups on the Vancouver Island spread from Kaikash Creek and almost Blinkhorn! There must have been a alot of movement last night from the time after we heard the A12s pass through Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 07:25:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Around 8:30am these very interesting whales turned around a little shy of Blinkhorn. The I15s were first get get to the beaches and we suspect the A36s followed. There are whales spread out back to Critical Point and across the Strait - all moving eastward despite the ebbing tide (the tide turned at 8:30am as well). The Gikumi has found the A12s stalled off of Donegal Head. We believe the A30s,A36s,I15s,I11s,I31s,G2s,G3s,G29,G18s and G12s should be the groups in the Strait.
Helena
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing distant A12s (not a lot of calls) in Blackfish Sound. They apparently dropped into the western end of Blackfish for a bite to eat. The other groups are still eastbound past Naka Creek.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 13:12:46 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s went through Weynton Pass. They are now eastbound in Johnstone Strait. The other groups (the A30s,A36s, Gs, I11s, I15s and I31s) have continued eastward from Naka Creek.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 14:31:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After a lovely long foraging pause off of the entrance ot Blackney Pass and CP the A12s have finally moved off towards the east. We got a report that the G18s left all the other easbound groups off the Adams River earlier and are on their way back to the west.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 18:10:44 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It sounds like the A30s have returned from the east as well as the I31s (this was the group who joined the A12s at the beaches earlier).
Helena
12 Sep 2006 21:42:26 PDT
Monday, September 11, 2006
11 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Life began again around 3am when we heard the A30s heading east back in Johnstone Strait. After an hour we began to hear distant G clan calls coming up from the east. Since then there has been steady movement. The I11s just went through Blackney Pass and are now in Blackfish Sound while the rest,the A30s,I15s,I31s,A36s and the other G groups, are spread out foraging from CP to the area off of Robson Bight.
Helena
11 Sep 2006 07:27:48 PDT
No orcas present.
After the I11s went through Blackney Pass the other groups( the A30s,I15s,I31s,G2s,G3s,G18s,G29s,G12s and the A36s) all went through Weynton Pass on the ebb tide and then stalled for quite a while in Queen Charlotte Strait. They still seem determined to remain there and are even heading west off Lizard Point, despite the strong flooding tide which should be encouraging them to come back. There was a report of a group of 8 heading west at Stimpson Reefs quite a while ago but we have not heard anything turn up near the Ecological Reserve yet. So it is a very in between day today.
Helena
11 Sep 2006 15:59:25 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Life began again around 3am when we heard the A30s heading east back in Johnstone Strait. After an hour we began to hear distant G clan calls coming up from the east. Since then there has been steady movement. The I11s just went through Blackney Pass and are now in Blackfish Sound while the rest,the A30s,I15s,I31s,A36s and the other G groups, are spread out foraging from CP to the area off of Robson Bight.
Helena
11 Sep 2006 07:27:48 PDT
No orcas present.
After the I11s went through Blackney Pass the other groups( the A30s,I15s,I31s,G2s,G3s,G18s,G29s,G12s and the A36s) all went through Weynton Pass on the ebb tide and then stalled for quite a while in Queen Charlotte Strait. They still seem determined to remain there and are even heading west off Lizard Point, despite the strong flooding tide which should be encouraging them to come back. There was a report of a group of 8 heading west at Stimpson Reefs quite a while ago but we have not heard anything turn up near the Ecological Reserve yet. So it is a very in between day today.
Helena
11 Sep 2006 15:59:25 PDT
Sunday, September 10, 2006
10 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
The Lukwa followed up on reports of whales near Forward Bay and Naka Creek and headed down the Strait in that direction this morning. They have since located the lead groups just east of the Ecological Reserve and like yesterday the whales are coming west for the morning. Cool damp (not wet) weather this morning.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 10:19:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s,I15s, and I31s are past CP now and making their way west while stopping to forage intensely off the entrance to Blackney Pass. Our first of the season southeaster is stirring.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 13:22:13 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s, I15s and I31s left their foraging spot off the entrance to Weynton Pass in Johnstone Strait to head east to the entrance of Blackney Pass where they are now.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 16:42:48 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After staying off the entrance to Blackney Pass for quite a while, where to go was finally resolved with the A30s taking off and heading into Blackney Pass. The I15s stayed with them until the decision was made and then they followed the I11s and I31s to Robson Bight. Just recently, we thought we might have heard the A36s in the big group off of the Bight - did they come up from the east? The A30s have not had a lot to say. Reports from the east said the A12s spent the day in Discovery Channel. No word on the other G clan groups who should be still to the east - somewhere.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 20:32:01 PDT
No orcas present.
The Lukwa followed up on reports of whales near Forward Bay and Naka Creek and headed down the Strait in that direction this morning. They have since located the lead groups just east of the Ecological Reserve and like yesterday the whales are coming west for the morning. Cool damp (not wet) weather this morning.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 10:19:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s,I15s, and I31s are past CP now and making their way west while stopping to forage intensely off the entrance to Blackney Pass. Our first of the season southeaster is stirring.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 13:22:13 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s, I15s and I31s left their foraging spot off the entrance to Weynton Pass in Johnstone Strait to head east to the entrance of Blackney Pass where they are now.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 16:42:48 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After staying off the entrance to Blackney Pass for quite a while, where to go was finally resolved with the A30s taking off and heading into Blackney Pass. The I15s stayed with them until the decision was made and then they followed the I11s and I31s to Robson Bight. Just recently, we thought we might have heard the A36s in the big group off of the Bight - did they come up from the east? The A30s have not had a lot to say. Reports from the east said the A12s spent the day in Discovery Channel. No word on the other G clan groups who should be still to the east - somewhere.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 20:32:01 PDT
Saturday, September 09, 2006
09 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Except for a few additional distant calls east of Critical Point around midnight, it has been a pretty quiet night. So we think the whales kept going east.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 08:49:23 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We just started to hear super faint G and A calls east of the eastern end of the Reserve. Whales coming west!
Helena
09 Sep 2006 10:50:33 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
What a busy place - Johnstone Strait. So far the A30s, A36s, G18s, I11s, I15s, G02s have been identified. There are probably more, if not most of the groups from yesterday. They all went up west to the entrance of Weynton and then pushed their way partly through the Pass against the strongly ebbing tide before they turned around. They are now moving with the current back into Johnstone Strait. Hard at this point to tell if they have met up with new incoming groups.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 15:30:34 PDT
No orcas present.
This feels very similar to last night with the whales continuing to the east past the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve despite the ebbing tide. After midnight they will have the tide with them which will certainly make it easier for them to go further east. In the area we believe are: all the A1s, the I11s,I15s,I31s, G2s,G3s, G18s,G12s, G29s.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 21:47:08 PDT
No orcas present.
Except for a few additional distant calls east of Critical Point around midnight, it has been a pretty quiet night. So we think the whales kept going east.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 08:49:23 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We just started to hear super faint G and A calls east of the eastern end of the Reserve. Whales coming west!
Helena
09 Sep 2006 10:50:33 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
What a busy place - Johnstone Strait. So far the A30s, A36s, G18s, I11s, I15s, G02s have been identified. There are probably more, if not most of the groups from yesterday. They all went up west to the entrance of Weynton and then pushed their way partly through the Pass against the strongly ebbing tide before they turned around. They are now moving with the current back into Johnstone Strait. Hard at this point to tell if they have met up with new incoming groups.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 15:30:34 PDT
No orcas present.
This feels very similar to last night with the whales continuing to the east past the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve despite the ebbing tide. After midnight they will have the tide with them which will certainly make it easier for them to go further east. In the area we believe are: all the A1s, the I11s,I15s,I31s, G2s,G3s, G18s,G12s, G29s.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 21:47:08 PDT
Friday, September 08, 2006
08 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s just rushed past us on the ebbing tide. They are now heading west in Blackfish Sound. We have not seen or heard of the I15s so we are not sure if they are still in the Strait or if they too have gone out. It is trying to rain! Yea!
Helena
08 Sep 2006 07:49:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s showed up at the top end of Blackfish Sound after apparently coming through Weynton Pass earlier. (Thanks to Jim Borrowman for the sighting)They have met up with the A30s who went north through Blackney Pass earlier to arrive at the same location as the I15s. Both groups are spread out, vocal, milling. We have heard of an "Incoming" group further west in Queen Charlotte Strait. This might be an interesting afternoon.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 09:55:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s eventually made it into Blackney Pass just as the tide was changing from slack to flood. They are now in Johnstone Strait. They were excited,breaching, spyhopping, porpoising when travelling through the Pass. We have heard (thanks to DFO) that at least the Gs,A36s,A12s and some of the I31s are the incoming group reported earlier. It is raining harder! Yea! Yea!
Helena
08 Sep 2006 12:02:29 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The map will not show it but all the groups who were in Queen Charlotte Strait earlier went through Blackfish Sound and Blackney Pass to get into Johnstone Strait. These groups are now eastbound following the I15s and the A30s who disappeared that direction quite a while ago. As reported: the A12s, I35s (including I46 and I80), the G2s, G3s,G18s,G12s, I112s and A36s all arrived today.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 17:45:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After quite the jamboree (?sp) in Robson Bight, it seems as if the whales have kept going to the east. The tide is now ebbing but whether that will change their momentum is hard to say. Anyway, we figure around 80 whales are "in" today. Nice to have all the A1s back. Just about the whole of G clan is here as well.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 21:18:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s just rushed past us on the ebbing tide. They are now heading west in Blackfish Sound. We have not seen or heard of the I15s so we are not sure if they are still in the Strait or if they too have gone out. It is trying to rain! Yea!
Helena
08 Sep 2006 07:49:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s showed up at the top end of Blackfish Sound after apparently coming through Weynton Pass earlier. (Thanks to Jim Borrowman for the sighting)They have met up with the A30s who went north through Blackney Pass earlier to arrive at the same location as the I15s. Both groups are spread out, vocal, milling. We have heard of an "Incoming" group further west in Queen Charlotte Strait. This might be an interesting afternoon.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 09:55:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s eventually made it into Blackney Pass just as the tide was changing from slack to flood. They are now in Johnstone Strait. They were excited,breaching, spyhopping, porpoising when travelling through the Pass. We have heard (thanks to DFO) that at least the Gs,A36s,A12s and some of the I31s are the incoming group reported earlier. It is raining harder! Yea! Yea!
Helena
08 Sep 2006 12:02:29 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The map will not show it but all the groups who were in Queen Charlotte Strait earlier went through Blackfish Sound and Blackney Pass to get into Johnstone Strait. These groups are now eastbound following the I15s and the A30s who disappeared that direction quite a while ago. As reported: the A12s, I35s (including I46 and I80), the G2s, G3s,G18s,G12s, I112s and A36s all arrived today.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 17:45:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After quite the jamboree (?sp) in Robson Bight, it seems as if the whales have kept going to the east. The tide is now ebbing but whether that will change their momentum is hard to say. Anyway, we figure around 80 whales are "in" today. Nice to have all the A1s back. Just about the whole of G clan is here as well.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 21:18:29 PDT
Thursday, September 07, 2006
07 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
The A30s were heard on the rubbing beaches just before 2am. Not long afterwards both the I15s and the A30s came to the Robson Bight area where they stayed for quite a long time before heading west to CP and north into Blackney. Both groups are now on their way to Blackfish Sound.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 05:58:34 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
After spending all of the morning and part of the afternoon in Queen Charlotte Strait the I15s and the A30s decided to follow the flood into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. They have just recently entered the Strait and are eastbound. No calls so far from these relaxed whales.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 14:53:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s (leading) and the I15s have passed CP midstrait and are now continuing east.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 16:28:33 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s went in for a brief rub.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 19:03:52 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and the I15s are moving back to the west. The made a nice pass the Bight.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 21:49:52 PDT
No orcas present.
We lost track of the A30s and the I15s about an hour ago somewhere off Robson Bight. It seemed for a while they might come west but it has not been clear if that has happened. The tide is now flooding and we suspect that they went back to the east, perhaps on the Cracroft Island side. We will have to wait.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 23:30:36 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s were heard on the rubbing beaches just before 2am. Not long afterwards both the I15s and the A30s came to the Robson Bight area where they stayed for quite a long time before heading west to CP and north into Blackney. Both groups are now on their way to Blackfish Sound.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 05:58:34 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
After spending all of the morning and part of the afternoon in Queen Charlotte Strait the I15s and the A30s decided to follow the flood into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. They have just recently entered the Strait and are eastbound. No calls so far from these relaxed whales.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 14:53:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s (leading) and the I15s have passed CP midstrait and are now continuing east.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 16:28:33 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s went in for a brief rub.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 19:03:52 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and the I15s are moving back to the west. The made a nice pass the Bight.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 21:49:52 PDT
No orcas present.
We lost track of the A30s and the I15s about an hour ago somewhere off Robson Bight. It seemed for a while they might come west but it has not been clear if that has happened. The tide is now flooding and we suspect that they went back to the east, perhaps on the Cracroft Island side. We will have to wait.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 23:30:36 PDT
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
06 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas near mics.
It has been a busy night for the A30s and the I15s. After their time at the beaches they moved, eventually back to the west, comng as far as the entrance to Blackney pass. The A30s shifted back to the Strait first and then silent while the I15s lingered a while longer and then followed. The I15s remained vocal as they moved back eastward. As the neared the Robson Bight area the A30s became vocal briefly. The two groups may be taking advantage of the last of the flood (it turns soon to an ebb) to carry on to the east.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 03:11:26 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s and the I15s turned east of Boat ay around 9am. They are quietly making their way to the west spread out from shore to shore opposite and "in" the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 10:38:04 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Very slowly the I15s and the A30s are moving west -sleepy day.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 12:05:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are now right off CP foraging. The A30s further out.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 13:17:47 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After making the turn at the western end of Hanson Island at 2:35pm, the I15s crossed to the Vancouver Island side and continued east to the Bight. The A30s stalled off of CP and foraged for a while off the entrance to Blackney Pass before heading east and joining the I15s in the Reserve. Nice afternoon calls.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 17:50:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The 15s seemed to disappear around Critical Point around 6:30pm. The A30s have not been quite as decisive. For the last two hours they have shifted about, never coming west enough to be heard on CP, never far enough east to be heard on the rubbing beach system. Perhaps they have been moving back and forth across the Strait.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 22:11:08 PDT
No orcas present.
It seems the A30s may have followed the I15s to the east.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 22:51:27 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It has been a busy night for the A30s and the I15s. After their time at the beaches they moved, eventually back to the west, comng as far as the entrance to Blackney pass. The A30s shifted back to the Strait first and then silent while the I15s lingered a while longer and then followed. The I15s remained vocal as they moved back eastward. As the neared the Robson Bight area the A30s became vocal briefly. The two groups may be taking advantage of the last of the flood (it turns soon to an ebb) to carry on to the east.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 03:11:26 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s and the I15s turned east of Boat ay around 9am. They are quietly making their way to the west spread out from shore to shore opposite and "in" the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 10:38:04 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Very slowly the I15s and the A30s are moving west -sleepy day.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 12:05:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are now right off CP foraging. The A30s further out.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 13:17:47 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After making the turn at the western end of Hanson Island at 2:35pm, the I15s crossed to the Vancouver Island side and continued east to the Bight. The A30s stalled off of CP and foraged for a while off the entrance to Blackney Pass before heading east and joining the I15s in the Reserve. Nice afternoon calls.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 17:50:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The 15s seemed to disappear around Critical Point around 6:30pm. The A30s have not been quite as decisive. For the last two hours they have shifted about, never coming west enough to be heard on CP, never far enough east to be heard on the rubbing beach system. Perhaps they have been moving back and forth across the Strait.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 22:11:08 PDT
No orcas present.
It seems the A30s may have followed the I15s to the east.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 22:51:27 PDT
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
05 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have rushed into Johnstone Strait (via Blackney Pass?) and are now eastbound toward the Reserve.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 00:14:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s, after heading east, are now returning. They are currently not far from Robson Bight westbound.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 08:05:46 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s turned back to the east after grabbing a bite to eat off of Critical Point. They have since met up with the I15s. Both are now really westbound.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 10:05:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s carried on west past CP to the top end of Hanson Island. They have turned (15:50pm) and are now eastbound once again.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 13:18:05 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
On the eastern turn and trek the I15s slipped into Blackney Pass silently. They got only half way before they turned and went back to the Strait. There have been no calls during all of this movemnt. The A30s continued toward the Ecological Reserve. Except for a couple of calls they have been quiet as well.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 15:54:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The boat noise is now beginning (a cruiseship) but just before the A30s and the I15s moved through Robson Bight with wonderful clear calls. Lovely. They are,we believe, continuing through the rest of the Reserve to the east. Next stop the beaches?
Helena
05 Sep 2006 18:51:55 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As the A3os and the I15s enjoyed a long, long rub at the beaches the almost full moon rose over the mountains of Vancouver Island. A lovely velvet soft evening.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 20:35:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have rushed into Johnstone Strait (via Blackney Pass?) and are now eastbound toward the Reserve.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 00:14:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s, after heading east, are now returning. They are currently not far from Robson Bight westbound.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 08:05:46 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s turned back to the east after grabbing a bite to eat off of Critical Point. They have since met up with the I15s. Both are now really westbound.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 10:05:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s carried on west past CP to the top end of Hanson Island. They have turned (15:50pm) and are now eastbound once again.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 13:18:05 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
On the eastern turn and trek the I15s slipped into Blackney Pass silently. They got only half way before they turned and went back to the Strait. There have been no calls during all of this movemnt. The A30s continued toward the Ecological Reserve. Except for a couple of calls they have been quiet as well.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 15:54:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The boat noise is now beginning (a cruiseship) but just before the A30s and the I15s moved through Robson Bight with wonderful clear calls. Lovely. They are,we believe, continuing through the rest of the Reserve to the east. Next stop the beaches?
Helena
05 Sep 2006 18:51:55 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As the A3os and the I15s enjoyed a long, long rub at the beaches the almost full moon rose over the mountains of Vancouver Island. A lovely velvet soft evening.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 20:35:38 PDT
Monday, September 04, 2006
04 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
Just after 7am we began to hear A calls in Blackfish Sound. The calls were extremely distant. Earlier the A30s,A4s and A5s went through Blackney Pass after coming west in the Strait. Their calls ended around 3:40am and so perhaps these groups are the very distant As we heard most recently. Going Weynton?
Helena
04 Sep 2006 07:57:13 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We just started to hear the A12s at the rubbing beaches. They have come from the east. The Tuan also reported the A30s left the out going group and one hour ago they were at Lizard Point headed back into the area.
Helena
04 Sep 2006 16:21:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Just after 7am we began to hear A calls in Blackfish Sound. The calls were extremely distant. Earlier the A30s,A4s and A5s went through Blackney Pass after coming west in the Strait. Their calls ended around 3:40am and so perhaps these groups are the very distant As we heard most recently. Going Weynton?
Helena
04 Sep 2006 07:57:13 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We just started to hear the A12s at the rubbing beaches. They have come from the east. The Tuan also reported the A30s left the out going group and one hour ago they were at Lizard Point headed back into the area.
Helena
04 Sep 2006 16:21:38 PDT
Saturday, September 02, 2006
02 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Always interesting. As the A12s moved toward Robson Bight, the A30s and the I15s were heard once more on the Rubbing Beach system. They were not rubbing, just chatting. After a while the I15s slipped away to the east and the A30s continued. The A12s continued calling as well. Then finally the A30s slipped away to the east too, leaving the A12s calling on their own. Finally the A12s rounded Critical Point and headed to the beaches where they are now. A few quiet rubs have followed a few energetic ones and we wonder if the A12s won't follow everyone east.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 00:26:31 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s, I31s,I11s have gone for a rub. It may be a quick one. While they were off robson Bight we also heard distant A1 calls - perhaps the A30s calling them eastward!
Helena
02 Sep 2006 18:21:24 PDT
Boat noise
The I11s may not have listened to the siren call after all. We believe they headed back to the west where they were earlier today. We are waiting to find out if they head out or turn back once again. We still believe the I15s and i35s+ continued to the east. The A30s, A4s,A5s and the three G groups are still east as well.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 21:08:52 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Always interesting. As the A12s moved toward Robson Bight, the A30s and the I15s were heard once more on the Rubbing Beach system. They were not rubbing, just chatting. After a while the I15s slipped away to the east and the A30s continued. The A12s continued calling as well. Then finally the A30s slipped away to the east too, leaving the A12s calling on their own. Finally the A12s rounded Critical Point and headed to the beaches where they are now. A few quiet rubs have followed a few energetic ones and we wonder if the A12s won't follow everyone east.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 00:26:31 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s, I31s,I11s have gone for a rub. It may be a quick one. While they were off robson Bight we also heard distant A1 calls - perhaps the A30s calling them eastward!
Helena
02 Sep 2006 18:21:24 PDT
Boat noise
The I11s may not have listened to the siren call after all. We believe they headed back to the west where they were earlier today. We are waiting to find out if they head out or turn back once again. We still believe the I15s and i35s+ continued to the east. The A30s, A4s,A5s and the three G groups are still east as well.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 21:08:52 PDT
Friday, September 01, 2006
01 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
Nice surprise. The I15s turned up close to CP and then they and the A30s moved in together into Blackney Pass. We may have lost track of the I11/I31 group. Their calls were growing distant just as the I15s drew closer to CP. Then they went quiet. BUT perhaps they followed the others into Blackney. Regardless, all three groups are westbound and moving out of the area on the ebb tide.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 00:27:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Shortly after 6am we began to hear calls in Blackfish Sound. These were followed by the A30s, and then the I15s, coming into Blackney Pass. The I15s were closer to the Lab, the A30s closer to the other side. They are now headed to Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 07:11:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
As the A30s and the I15s moved on eastward, the I11s appeared opposite CP from the west. Interesting that each group retread their path from last night, coming back through the same waters they used last night. All three groups are eastbound together headed toward the Robson Bight area.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 07:55:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The day keeps developing along positve lines. The Gs have joined the A30s, I15s and I11s off the Robson Bight area after a brief rub at the beaches. The A4s,A5s and A12s are not far off as well.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 09:17:05 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups, numbering near to 90 whales, are going west. The majority have already passed CP. The list includes: the A5s,I11s,A30s,I15s,G3s,G18s, G29s,A4s,A12s,and possibly the I31s.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 11:16:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Now there a lot of whales everywhere! The A12s and the I31s came through Blackney pass a short while ago and they are now on their way west through Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, all the others have turned, some got as far as the entrance to Weynton Passage, and they are now silently eastbound. The A30s are in the lead and must be near Izumi Rock and the Reserve beyond. A12, herself, led the charge into Blackney.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 13:45:38 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales have been back at the beaches for hours. The A30s and the I15s had a fisrt rub and then as they other groups (the A4s,A5s, Gs,I11s) slowly made their way past Critical Point another long rub began. Eventually, someone from each call group joined in and the rub continued forever. They may have finally decided to move on. meanwhile ,we have not heard the I31 and A12s. We had heard they were trying to come back via Weynton against the ebb tide but no "word" yet as to how far they have come.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 19:20:21 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Nice surprise. The I15s turned up close to CP and then they and the A30s moved in together into Blackney Pass. We may have lost track of the I11/I31 group. Their calls were growing distant just as the I15s drew closer to CP. Then they went quiet. BUT perhaps they followed the others into Blackney. Regardless, all three groups are westbound and moving out of the area on the ebb tide.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 00:27:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Shortly after 6am we began to hear calls in Blackfish Sound. These were followed by the A30s, and then the I15s, coming into Blackney Pass. The I15s were closer to the Lab, the A30s closer to the other side. They are now headed to Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 07:11:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
As the A30s and the I15s moved on eastward, the I11s appeared opposite CP from the west. Interesting that each group retread their path from last night, coming back through the same waters they used last night. All three groups are eastbound together headed toward the Robson Bight area.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 07:55:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The day keeps developing along positve lines. The Gs have joined the A30s, I15s and I11s off the Robson Bight area after a brief rub at the beaches. The A4s,A5s and A12s are not far off as well.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 09:17:05 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups, numbering near to 90 whales, are going west. The majority have already passed CP. The list includes: the A5s,I11s,A30s,I15s,G3s,G18s, G29s,A4s,A12s,and possibly the I31s.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 11:16:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Now there a lot of whales everywhere! The A12s and the I31s came through Blackney pass a short while ago and they are now on their way west through Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, all the others have turned, some got as far as the entrance to Weynton Passage, and they are now silently eastbound. The A30s are in the lead and must be near Izumi Rock and the Reserve beyond. A12, herself, led the charge into Blackney.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 13:45:38 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales have been back at the beaches for hours. The A30s and the I15s had a fisrt rub and then as they other groups (the A4s,A5s, Gs,I11s) slowly made their way past Critical Point another long rub began. Eventually, someone from each call group joined in and the rub continued forever. They may have finally decided to move on. meanwhile ,we have not heard the I31 and A12s. We had heard they were trying to come back via Weynton against the ebb tide but no "word" yet as to how far they have come.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 19:20:21 PDT
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