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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

31 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Boat noise

just a short while ago we started to hear groups coming west past Robson Bight. So far we have heard I31 type calls along with an A1 group. We will be more specific after the boat noise settles down.
Helena
31 Aug 2006 21:20:52 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A1 group has turned out to be the A30s.
Helena
31 Aug 2006 21:31:43 PDT

30 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

A large group of orcas, including A1s, A4s, A5s & several G & R clan groups has just headed north through Blackney Pass.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 04:58:44 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Oh boy, still a lot of movement. The A30s,I15s and the R group have come back from the top of Blackfish Sound, travelled through Weynton Pass and headed east in Johnstone Strait. Other groups, the A12s, A5s, I31s and possibly others are following but look like they might come through Blackney Pass. We are waiting. Earlier this morning: the A30s,A11s, I15s, Gs, Rs and I11/I31s passed through Blackney on their way north and west. They were "sort of" following the A36s, Hs and Is who had ventured in as far as Blackney pass before returning to Blackfish Sound and heading out. The A12s, A5s and the rest of the A4s may have stayed Strait side, going to the west and out via Weynton Pass. After sorting themselves out they groups have split and begun travelling as described above.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 12:35:05 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The I15s,A30s,R2s and R7s have moved on from Robson Bight. The I15s have gone into the beaches. The I31s,A12s, A4s,A5s, G3s,G18s,probably the G29s, and I11s went through Blackney Pass, past CP and are now crossing towards the Reserve from the Cracroft Island side.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 14:34:01 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We last heard I31 calls on Flower Isalnd just before 10pm. We have the impression that at least some of the groups may have exited via Weynton Pass after traveling west in the Strait soon after their rub. The boat noise tonight is dreadful. Just a little while ago we began hearing the As (A4s+) still in the Strait. They may be heading back eastward, toward the Reserve, despite the tide that will be ebbing until 4am.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 23:07:57 PDT

28 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Most of the groups were back in the Strait by 3am & heading east. The A12s are presently having an energetic rub.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 06:33:16 PDT

Boat noise

After a great rub the groups may have headed off to the east. hard to say how far they will go as the tide is now ebbing. We thought they might come back but we have not heard anything for over an hour now. Before the rub, when the whales were off the Robson Bight area, we think the I31s may have come and joined the others around 5am. It was after this that the groups went down to the beaches for an hour rub which ended around 7:30am.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 09:18:18 PDT

Boat noise

Sorry, I forgot to mention who we have heard this morning from the time the majority of the whales had come in: A30s,A12s, A36s, A4s,A5s, I11s,Gs, I15s and possibly the I31s as well.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 09:20:21 PDT

No orcas present.

The G3s, G18s and G29s were almost toally silent as they made their way the entire length of the upper Johnstone Strait area. They woke up in time to go for a rub around 6:40pm. from the beaches they continued east. We heard an update from the eastern part of Johnstone Strait this evening, thanks to Nick of Painter's Lodge. Apparently, the large group (the A12s,A30s, I11s,I15s, A4s, A5s, possibly the G2s and I31s ended up near Bear Bight. This is almost as far east as the Strait goes. It may be a quiet night up here. Nothing developed from the idea that the Rs and the Bs were in town earlier.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 22:22:33 PDT

27 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

A great start to the morning. At 5:40am we began to hear groups coming into Blackfish Sound. They did go out through Weynton Pass last night. Jim Borrowman saw them heading into Weynton around 7:50pm. Then 12 hours later here they were, in Blackfish Sound. The first calls were Gs so we thought we might see a lot more groups. When they came around the corner into Blackney, close to the Lab, we only identified the G29s! But they were with the A11s, all the A5s, A30s, I15s, A35s, maybe the A24s. Missing from yesterday were the I31s. We also could not clearly say that the A12s were there as well. It was lovely and as the tide turned to the slack the whales picked up speed and rushed (breaching) into Johnstone Strait. They are headed east towards the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 07:25:52 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Great! A second wave. This time the A12s led the I11s,G2s and others into Blackney from Blackfish Sound. They went into Johnstone Strait against the ebb tide and then headed eastward only to "shut down" and become still just west of the Sophia Islands. The "first wave" is to the east of them still.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 11:18:49 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

All the groups are on their way back to western johnstone Strait. The A12s seem to be in the lead but the A30s are not far behind. They are spread across from shore to shore.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 19:18:58 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It looked like they wanted to go west, some were up to Big Bay but the A24s had other ideas... they wanted to go out Blackney Pass so they called and called and pretty soon all the groups followed them through to Blackfish Sound. The calls are now distant as they continue to move west.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 22:04:41 PDT

26 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Orcas near mics.

Sorry again, we had internet problems this morning AND it has been busy.... the A30s,A36s and I15s have come in. The A12s,I31s,A4s and A5s all came west (starting at 5am), some up as far as Telegraph Cove. The A24s , travelling just behind the A35s,poked their noses into Blackney Pass to have a listen while the others positioned themselves off Weynton Pass tp listen for the incoming A30s,A36s and I15s. Once in all the groups headed east together slowly against the last of the ebbing tide. They are now all in the Reserve, some at the beaches (A12s), others just in at the western boundary.
Helena
26 Aug 2006 13:13:31 PDT

No orcas present.

While most of the resident orcas were at the beaches the T18s plus maybe T124C passed by on the Cracroft Island side. When they were opposite Boat Bay Jared Towers witnessed the I33s pop up just 200 to 300 metres away. The transients sped away to the west and into Blackney Pass. As they reached Blackfish we could hear the I31s (the I33s) leading the rest of the resident groups to the west. Just before dark they were off Telegraph Cove. Where they have gone since is a but of a mystery. The last faint and very distant calls were heard just after 8pm. Did the strong ebb tide encourage them to leave via Weynton? A fishing opening today has increased the boat noise in the Strait making it hard to hear any distant calls.
Helena
26 Aug 2006 22:52:21 PDT

14 August 2006, Orcalab reports:


Multiple pod calls audible.

Good Morning! The A12s,A4s,A5s and the Bs continued to wait off Robson Bight/Boat Bay until around 2am and then finally shifted east. This was very close to when we started to first hear the I15s and the A30s in Blackfish Sound. They were joined by the A36s and several Gs groups, who then proceded ahead to Blackney Pass. After passing through Blackney Pass in a BIG rush all these groups entered the Strait and continued east. They are currently still passing Robson Bight. The tide is in full flood.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 05:36:24 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The whales who went east early this morning are returning and the lead groups are already up to Boat Bay. Meanwhile, the Naiad has been reporting a very large group (included are Ws,Ds,Rs and more) off the Port Hardy area. They are not yet committed to fully coming down to the east.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 13:56:15 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A36s are once again leading the several G groups westward in the Strait. We are also hearing A4s,A5s,A12s & Bs but i don't think we have heard the a30s and the I15s yet. It is,however, a BIG crowd.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 16:18:51 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

My goodness what a day. The OLers were here after their encounter with the Rs, Ws,Ds,C6s,C10s mid Queen Charlotte Strait off Pine Island on the Naiad Explorer. Meanwhile, the A30s,A36s, I15s, A12s, A35s,A24s,A51s, A43s, Bs and the several G groups came out of the east and travelled toward WeyntonPassage. There the Gs probably took off through Weynton Passage and the others returned to the entrance of Blackney Pass where after sorting themselves out they headed into Blackney Pass and past the Lab. The A24s and the Bs were the last through. CP saw the A12s continue to the west in the Strait and it is still unclear what they are going to do.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 20:48:52 PDT

13 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

Last night the Gs and A36s, accompanied by the A30s and the I15s, travelled through Blackney Pass between 7:16 and 8pm. We continued to hear all their calls until 9:15pm. After a short break, the A30s and the I15s were vocal again in Blackfish Sound, returned and came back through Blackney Pass between 12:20 and 1am. These two groups then travelled east and disappeared around Critical Point/Robson Bight around 3am. We have heard a report this morning from the MacKays that there is a large group east bound from the Port Hardy area.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 09:13:24 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The I15s along with A38 went north through Blackney Pass after coming back from the east and passing Cracroft Point. The rest of the A30s followed after crossing Johnstone Strait from the Kaikash area.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 12:38:40 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Just after the I5s and the A30s headed through Blackfish Sound, the A12s, A11s,A35s,A24s, A51s 7 possibly the A43s came up from the east with the B7s and travelled west on both shores to the Weynton Pass area. They have since turned and are now making their way back. So far we have heard A1 and A4 calls. Lots of boat noise as the seine boats prepare for the 8:30am opening tomorrow.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 18:31:15 PDT

12 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

Hmmm.... definitely the I15s and the A30s came through Blackney Pass. The blows blows were spread out across the Pass. We lost track of the Cs and the Ds around 11:20pm when they were opposite the entrance to Blackney Pass & still in Johnstone Strait. The tide turns to flood at 1am.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 00:34:49 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

An early morning radio report of a large group of orcas "milling around" of Donegal Head suggests the A30s & I15s haven't gone very far. We've lost track of the Cs & Ds, so they could be there too. We're not hearing any calls at the moment.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 07:19:23 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The I15s just passed by the Lab very close in on their way to Johnstone Strait. A little further out, the A30s also made their way south. They were bucking the tide the whole way but managed to make steady progress. The I15s were particularly slow, spyhopping and rolling, and resting on the surface.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 12:40:47 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I15s and the A30s crossed the Strait to Vancouver Island and are now in the Ecological Reserve rounding Critical Point. The A12s,A4s, A5s, Gs and A36s are still to the east. There is a report of a group near Port Neville westbound. Sadly, it looks like I15 and I41 are missing. Graeme Ellis had a chance to look at the group this morning. We had already guessed that I41 was gone but did not know about I15. I16 has most likely lost her youngest calf.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 14:43:49 PDT

Boat noise

The A30s and the I15s are westbound past Critical Point after their very,very long rub on the Main Beach. There have been several reports of other whales westbound on the Cracroft side as well.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 17:56:17 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We are just beginning to hear G calls along with the I15s and the A30s.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 17:58:07 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The G3s, G29s and probably other Gs as well came through Blackney with the A36s, A30s and the I15s. It was a lovely mixed up bunch of travelling whales catching the glow of the evening sunset. They are all now at the top end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 20:57:02 PDT

11 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

After the A30s and the I15s disappeared to the east in Johnstone Strait all was quiet until 11pm. Then... calls in Blackfish Sound. In came the Cs, Ds, Gs, and A36s through Blackney Pass. They reached Johnstone Strait on the slack tide andthen made their way east. Just as the last of these groups were approaching Robson Bight the A12s,A4s,A5s,A30s and Bs came up from the east. By 2:30am everyone had turned and moved in the same direction together, We last heard calls at 3:15 as the groups passed the eastern boundary of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 07:17:59 PDT

No orcas present.

The resident orcas who came during the night have remained east all day. A fairly large group of transients (the T100s) turned up off Donegal Head this morning. The went west toward Alet Bay and Port McNeill and then turned around and headed for Alder Bay and Beaver Cove. They were identified by DFO. The fishing opening will close at 6pm so we anticipate the area to be a little less busy tonight.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 16:40:01 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The Ds, Cs & A30s have returned from the east and are now off Robson Bight. Nick Templeton of Painter's Lodge reported tonight that the I15s were on their way through Seymour Narrows (north of Campbell River) on the slack tide while the A12s, A24s & A11s had been in Frederick Arm (also very far east). The Bs were in Nodales (also very far east) The A36s and the Gs were also seen in the east today. The T100s continued to tour the area. After nearing the Reserve they turned and headed back west. They were last seen by the Blue Fjord around 8:30pm off the Nimpkish River opposite Alert Bay.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 22:00:21 PDT

Orcas approaching Orcalab.

Hmmm.... We are actually hearing the I15s off of CP at the moment and it looks like they and the Cs,Ds and A30s are turning into Blackney Pass.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 23:25:06 PDT

10 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

Good morning! The A12s & A5s kept us busy for most of the night while they stalled off Robson Bight. The A24s & Bs were further east but eventually made their way back to the A12s and A5s. Finally, just as these groups moved off to the east, the A30s and the I15s entered the Strait via Weynton Pass. The A30s, ahead of the I15s, went past CP mid strait around 6am. As they crossed over to the Ecological Reserve the I15s followed. The I15s have just rounded Critical Point. Very low tide this morning and it will be ebbing until around noon. This means the I15s and A30s worked the whole time against the tide in order to reach the Strait & the Reserve.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 07:52:57 PDT

Distant calls audible.

It sounds like the A30s and the I15s are making their way back. We are now hearing their cals once again off Critical Point/ Robson Bight
Helena
10 Aug 2006 09:51:14 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A11s turned up unexpectedly in Johnstone Strait. We probably missed them going through Blackney Pass. They went west briefly and then turned and headed over to the Vancouver Island shore and down to the Reserve. They are now past Critical Point. While westbound and before their turn they were vocal briefly. This may have influenced the other groups (the A30s,A12s and I15s to finally turn around at the entrance to Weynton Passage. These groups are now slowly moving east but still west of CP. Lovely day ... strong northwesterly breeze but very sunny. There was a large group reported off Camp Point. This may be the Bs, A24s and maybe all of the A5s and the A35s. Hopefully, we find out for sure.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 15:48:09 PDT

No orcas present.

It has turned into a sleepy afternoon. On the turn the whales moved very slowly. The A30s were ahead and further off shore of the I15s. When they got to CP the foraged for a short while as the I15s poked their noses into the entrance of Blackney Pass. By this time it was apparent that the A12s were not around. Perhaps they slipped back east. Meanwhile, the A30s and the I15s are still headed east.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 18:49:11 PDT

09 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

The B7s led the parade back to the west starting at 2:50am. All the groups (the A4s,A5s,A30s,A12s,Gs,I31s,Rs etc) followed. With the exception of the small A11 group, who went through Blackney Pass, all the rest continued west in Johnstone Strat. We are just now hearing the first groups arrive at the top end of Blackfish Sound after exiting the Strait via Weynton Pass.
Helena
09 Aug 2006 06:39:59 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A12s came back from Queen Charlotte Strait ahead of the B7s, A24s,A51s and A43s. They all came through Blackney Pass. The A12s are now entering the Ecological Reserve while the others are slowly resting west of the Sophias. The rest of the groups (the A36s, A11s, I15s, Rs, Ds, I31s & Gs) are still headed west in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
09 Aug 2006 14:22:15 PDT

08 August Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s & A36s are with the i31s,Bs and some of the Gs passing CP. They came out of the east about 4:45am and have been moving west ever since.
Helena
08 Aug 2006 06:23:11 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A36s have gone through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, the A30s, I31s, Gs and I15s have continued west in Johnstone Strait. We believve the Bs may have turned around and headed back towards the Reserve after making it as far as Cracroft Point. We have heard a few A4 calls as well. There should still be a a fairly large group to the east, the A5s, possibly the A12s, some more of the A4s and the C6s and D7s. It is very, very foggy today.
Helena
08 Aug 2006 08:26:27 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

There are groups of whales everywhere! In the Strait: the B7s did turn back with the A11s but they are making there way past Critical Point. The A35s just finished at the Beaches and there may be others behind them (the rest of the A4s and A5s). The C6s (at least part of the pod) have gone past Alert Bay to the west. The A30s, I15s, I31s, A36s abd Gs (at least some of the G groups) are out in Queen Charlotte meeting up with incoming Rs and other groups. We don't know where the D7s got to as yet. Very, very busy!
Helena
08 Aug 2006 12:14:29 PDT

No orcas present.

Another superpod day! Several of the groups (the A30s,I31s,Gs, A12s ,A36s and Ds) this morning circled around Hanson Island and met up with the incoming Rs. The C6s headed off by themselves past Alert Bay. The A12s then led all the groups in via Blackney Pass just as the fog was clearing. The groups headed east in Johnstone Strait. After a jump into the beaches together they carried on to the east by 4:30pm. It has been quiet since. Our count was well over 100 whales.
Helena
08 Aug 2006 22:26:02 PDT

07 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

The A30s held firm and we believe that none of the other groups came back to the west afterall. The A30s remained near the Robson Bight area until around 2am. Around that time we may have heard the A12s pass Cracroft Point and follow the A30s to the east. All calls ended soon after 4am.
Helena
07 Aug 2006 08:33:32 PDT

06 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Orcas near mics.

This is becoming quite the day! The I15s and the A36s have already gone through Blackney Pass and east in Johnstone Strait. Bothe groups went in for a rub but the A36s have since come back to the west. The whalewatch boats have been keeping an eye on the Bs in Queen Charlotte Strait. They have company. R clan & possibly G clan calls have also been heard. The good news for us is that these groups are moving towards Blackfish Sound. Are the A36s coming west to meet up? Meanwhile the A30s,A4s,A5s are still quite far east. They were reported in Sunderland Channel earlier. They too were headed west.
Helena
06 Aug 2006 12:38:19 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Each of the groups is taking a turn at the Beaches. So far the I15s, A36s went in soon after their arrival as the first group. The Bs and the I31s were next (the 2nd group through) and now the I15s and the A30s (up from the east) have moved in too. Off Critcial Point the G group (the 3rd group through) are moving eastward towards the Beaches. Jim Borrowman reports that the R5s,R7s, and Ws turned back in Queen Charlotte and headed out to the west without "coming" in. And now, Dall's porpoise have come right into the bay out front ogf the house - Amazing!
Helena
06 Aug 2006 17:39:06 PDT

No orcas present.

The rubs are finally over (7:30pm) and the whales off to the east once again.
Helena
06 Aug 2006 21:58:13 PDT

05 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

We believe the majority of the groups from last night, the C6s,D7s, A4s and A5s went east of the Ecological Reserve. We heard the A30s briefly off Robson Bight at 6am but lost track of which direction they headed soon after. We think they may have slipped east as well. In amongst the incoming Cs and Ds, Jared Towers may have found a small G group as well!
Helena
05 Aug 2006 08:00:48 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The whales have been heading up to the west most of the afternoon. The A30s (who we heard around 6am) never did go as deep to the east as the others). Now, the A30s are in the lead ahead of the C6s,D7s,A4s,A5s. We have even heard that the A12s may be there as well.
Helena
05 Aug 2006 16:29:41 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

We just had the A30s, A4s,A5sC6s,D7s come west and turn not far from the entrance to Blackney Pass. They are now headed back towards the Ecological Reserve. We did not hear A12s nor Gs at this time.
Helena
05 Aug 2006 19:12:18 PDT

No orcas present.

All is quiet now. The A30s, A4s,A5s just finished their rub and headed off to the east. Before the rub,there had been one more 'go around the block" for all the groups, including the Ds and Cs. The turn to the east was shy of CP this time and we lost track of the Cs & Ds. did they go east along Cracroft Island? Or did they head off in the other direction? We were left hanging a bit. It would be nice if they stayed for while longer.
Helena
05 Aug 2006 23:15:24 PDT

04 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

All "quiet" again tonight - can't remember a season where we have such uninterrupted sleep! We presume the A30s, ?A12s, A4s and A5s are still to the east. This is a long, long weekend with a salmon derby in progress.
Helena
04 Aug 2006 08:59:52 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The resident whales who had been east are starting to arrive back at the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
04 Aug 2006 18:06:50 PDT

Boat noise

The A4s and A5s are still calling and quite excited but there is quite loud boat noise as well. We also received a report from Donegal Watcher via the Lukwa that 3 males and 5 females are on their way into Johnstone Strait from Queen Charlotte. We didn't hear any calls in Blackfish Sound and will have to wait for their arrival in the Strait. They have just gone into Weynton Pass.
Helena
04 Aug 2006 18:34:47 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It turned out to be both the D7s and the C6s. All the groups are now heading towards the Ecological Reserve. The A30s followed the A4s and the A5s to meet the incoming Ds & Cs. There was apparently quite a spoyhopping session as the groups met up.
Helena
04 Aug 2006 20:41:33 PDT

02 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

A short while ago the A30s and the A4s (from the east) touched in on the rubbing beaches on their way west through the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
02 Aug 2006 08:45:20 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s, A4s (all matrilines) and A51s went west as far as Beaver Cove (west of Telegraph Cove) and then turned just after 1pm. They are now headed back east.
Helena
02 Aug 2006 13:51:33 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s,A4s and A5s are westbound again after a lovely rub.
Helena
02 Aug 2006 17:37:28 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Another circuit of Johnstone Strait has brought the whales back to the rubbing beaches. This time they got only as far as the entrance of Blackney Pass when they excitedly decided to head back to the Ecological Rserve.
Helena
02 Aug 2006 21:06:54 PDT

No orcas present.

The whales may have continued to the east past the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
02 Aug 2006 22:00:55 PDT

01 August 2006, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

Last night I was just about to write an update when there were calls heard in Blackfish Sound. It turned out to be the A12s. Just before 9pm when the A30s,A11s and some of the A5s turned back to the east off Hanson Island, the A12s continued out through Weynton Pass. The A30s & Co continued going east toward the Reserve where they may have encountered the rest of the A5 groups along with the A24s. All these groups then conntinued east past the Reserve and were out of our range by 1am. We believe the A12s kept moving west into Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
01 Aug 2006 07:30:41 PDT

No orcas present.

The A12s have spent the day in Queen Charlotte Strait. They eventually began to move back toward the east just about the time reports reached us that there is a large group of orcas incoming from further west. The A30s,A4s and A5s are still in the eastern part of Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Aug 2006 16:19:19 PDT

31 July 2006, Orcalab reports:

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Most of the activity today has been off the eastern end of Cracroft Island. The whales (A30s and A5s) finallly decided to head back to the west. The A12s and A11s, who had earlier travelled back to the Strait via Blackney, turned back to the west, after reaching the Broken Islands. Their progress has been slow all day as they may have been waiting for the A30s and A5s to catch up. Despite the flooding tide they have all managed to keep moving west and the lead groups are now in the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
31 Jul 2006 17:10:12 PDT

30 July 2006, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

No calls overnight so we believe the A30s,A12, A4s and A5s are still to the east in Johnstone Strait. Yesterday, the Naiad thought that there may be additional groups there as well.
Helena
30 Jul 2006 09:13:17 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A12s came back from the east. They passed CP and continued west to Turn Point. A short while ago they turned. Meanwhile, some of the A4s followed the A12s up from the east. They are still east of CP. The A30s were reported still quite far east and so far we have not heard the A5s.
Helena
30 Jul 2006 15:59:05 PDT

29 July 2006, Orcalab reports

No orcas present.

Overnight: The A30, A4 & A5 calls continued until 11:30pm as these whales went back and forth in the Ecological Reserve. Then at 2am we briefly heard calls once more but unfortunately we were unable to locate where the calls were coming from. The tide was flooding and so they may have decided to go with it and head east. But it is a bit uncertain.
Helena
29 Jul 2006 07:51:13 PDT

No orcas present.

Indeed the whales went to the east, to the very far east, Sayward, Camp Point and Nodales.
Helena
29 Jul 2006 15:24:05 PDT

28 July 2006, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

The A30s finally have made it to the Strait. Coming in on the last of the flood tide they travelled south through Blackney Pass a short while ago. They had company - the A35s were with them! The A35s must have headed west silently after their last rub yesterday and met up with the A30s in Blackfish Sound in order to travel together toward the Strait. CP reports seeing them by 6:43am.
Helena
28 Jul 2006 06:56:02 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

A morning of surprises. The A30s left the A35s to go east in the Strait by themselves while they returned to Blackfish Sound via Blackney Pass.
Helena
28 Jul 2006 08:13:54 PDT

Distant calls audible.

After disappearing for most of the day, the A30s zipped through Blackfish Sound and Blackney. They are now eastbound. Meanwhile the A35s sound like they are westbound from the Boat Bay area. Will the A12s, A5s and the rest of the A4s come out of the east as well?
Helena
28 Jul 2006 17:03:48 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

it sounds like the A30s have met up with not just the A35s! We are now hearing other A4 calls as well as A5 and everyone has gone to the beach.
Helena
28 Jul 2006 18:18:47 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

And west they come. So far we have heard A30, A4 and A5 calls. They seem to be west bound from Boat Bay and Critical Point.
helena
28 Jul 2006 21:54:02 PDT

27 July 2006, Orcalab reports


No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s are back! Right now they are trying to make their way through Blackney against the strong ebbing tide - they are about half way. It was very exciting to hear their calls in Blackfish Sound just as we were finishing dinner. Earlier the A35s went in for a rub. They were accompanied by a few dolphins. It was not clear which direction they went after they were finished at the beaches. It will be a while before the A30s make it all the way into the Strait.
Helena
27 Jul 2006 22:21:34 PDT

Orcas near mics.

They didn't make it! Instead, just after posting the last comment, the A30s turned around and went with the tide. They are now back in Blackfish. What will they do next? Wait for the tide and come in later? Go back to Queen Charlotte Strait? Or try Weynton?
Helena
27 Jul 2006 22:52:40 PDT

June 22 2006, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

A little bit of news: Donna MacKay had a report this morning of a large group of orcas heading eastward from the Cape Caution area. Also, Cetacealab has heard/seen I31s and some of the A5s (A43s and A25s) over the last few days. The DFO during their Spring survey work ran across the A30s and report that A54 has a new calf. All the A30s were there and looking well. It is a good start!
Helena
22 Jun 2006 12:19:19 PDT

22 September Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

We heard no calls overnight, and think that the numerous groups (A12s, A30s, A36s, I15s, I11s, I31s) that headed "out" yesterday afternoon, after many days of intense socialising, may have moved further to the west. We are hoping that at least some of them will return before long, but meanwhile, we are waiting.
Paul
22 Sep 2005 09:24:05 PDT

No orcas present.

Well this has been the first day all season without orcas in the area. We did receive two reports from MacKay Whale Watching that a very large group of whales were west of Port Hardy this morning: Most likely the same whales as of yesterday. After all the intensity of movement and vocals the quiet takes some adjustment. But the return will be like starting over again!
Helena
22 Sep 2005 22:13:21 PDT

21 September Orcalab reports:

Superb sounds!!

Good morning everyone! The wonderful morning chorus of "A1" and "G-I" calls we're listening to is in Robson Bight. Sounds like the groups that were in the Strait yesterday afternoon & last night (A12s, A30s, I15s, I11s. I31s) are probably still together. It's another very foggy morning here... but hopefully it will become clear later this morning.
Paul
21 Sep 2005 07:35:08 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The party in Robson Bight seems to be going on & on, so we've sent an acoustic alert.
Paul
21 Sep 2005 08:54:33 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Some of the crowd have moved off to the east & are at the rubbing beaches... Channel B. Others are still in the Bight.
Paul
21 Sep 2005 09:19:53 PDT

Distant calls audible.

It seems that at least some of the orcas have moved off to the west & are now in the vicinity of Izumi Rock... we're starting to hear them in the distance on the CP hydrophone.
Paul
21 Sep 2005 10:01:04 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

Some of the orcas are close to CP & are occasionally visible through the fog. Channel A.
Paul
21 Sep 2005 10:40:28 PDT

Orcas approaching Orcalab.

The A36s have headed north through Blackney Pass on the swiftly ebbing tide. Others may follow them soon. It's too foggy to see much, but their calls have been clear on the Local Left hydrophone, now on Flower Island as they head into Blackfish Sound. The I15s are in the entrance to Blackney Pass, audible on the Parson Island hydrophone. There are still many orcas in Johnstone Strait, including the A12s & I11s/I31s. We're listening to them on the CP & CrPt hydrophones.
Paul
21 Sep 2005 11:23:27 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A36s continued to the west through Blackfish Sound this morning while the other groups (the A12s,A30s,I15s,I11s,and I31s) continued to the west in Johnstone Strait and out through Weynton Pass. They have lingered off the top end of Blackfish and the eastern regions of Queen Charlotte Strait for some time now. From time to time we can hear their distant calls.
Helena
21 Sep 2005 15:50:28 PDT

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since mid afternoon, when the various groups of orcas were headed north from Blackfish Sound. We are waiting.
Paul
21 Sep 2005 23:05:34 PDT

20 September Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

Good morning everyone! It sounds like the crowd that headed south into Blackney Pass on the ebbing tide last evening, and then turned back, has finally made it into Johnstone Strait, this time on the slack. We began hearing distant calls on the Critical Point hydrophone around 6:30 am, & since then have heard the A30s, A12s, I15s, & I11/31s. They are heading east, on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait.
Paul
20 Sep 2005 07:10:01 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A12s left the other groups andjust passed by the lab in Blackney on their way to Blackfish Sound. Just as they entered Blackfish Sound we could hear the A36s there as well. The calls are now growing distant perhaps going with the ebbing tide. The large group in the Strait have been silent for a while and now there is boat noise.
Helena
20 Sep 2005 08:42:45 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

We just had an interesting pass. We think the I35s along with I80 headed to Blackfish from the Strait. They were followed by the A30s and part of the I15s (including I41). It certainly was not all of the I31s nor all of the I15s. Meanwhile, the A36s and the A12s are headed toward the Foster Islands in Queen Charlotte Strait. Where are the other I31s, I15s and I11s?
Helena
20 Sep 2005 10:22:42 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Although they just became quiet. The whales have been making their way through Weynton Pass on the flood tide. The turn in Queen Charlotte Strait started just before the slack tide and by the time the lead group was nearing Weynton Pass the flood was in progress. We are now beginning to hear the first groups arrive in Johnstone Strait. Their calls are very distant. The large number of whales were so spread out that the calls on Flower Island faded at the same time the lead group reached the Strait. If everyone who was here returns (this time including the A36s) there will be near to 60 whales in the area. Acouple of humbacks have added to the spectacular day.
Helena
20 Sep 2005 14:10:19 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

The whales have now reached the entrance to Blackney and are soon to cross over to CP.
Helena
20 Sep 2005 15:21:03 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The I15s, I31s,I11s, A1s have moved closer to the Reserve. Thunder and lightening have given way to lovely sunshine once more.
Helena
20 Sep 2005 16:58:55 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

We just had quite a few whales head east past CP. They were spread out from midstrait to the Vancouver Island shore and they stretched all the way from the Reserve to CP. Everyone seemed to be mixed up but we definitely saw I41 (I15s), I64 (I11s), I42 (I31s), and I46 (I31s), as well as the A30s, A12, and possibly the A36s.
Mary and Julie@CP
20 Sep 2005 17:20:10 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Now the whales are spread out from Critical Point to the Beaches.
Helena
20 Sep 2005 17:51:14 PDT

No orcas present.

We think the whales left for the east after their pass of the beaches.
Helena
20 Sep 2005 21:46:37 PDT

Superb sounds!!

All the groups are making their way back past the Bight and on towards CP. Right now the A30s and the I15s are closest to the Bight but before them the I11s,I31s and A12s already made their way and we are just picking up their calls on CP.
Helena
20 Sep 2005 23:32:13 PDT

19 September Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

Since 2am we have been listening to very relaxed A30s, I11s and I15s in and around the area between the Reserve and the Sophia Islands.
Helena
19 Sep 2005 05:32:26 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s,I15s,and I11s shifted back to the west. They are currently off the entrance to Blackney Pass (still in the Strait).
Helena
19 Sep 2005 06:29:43 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The whales seemed to have moved to the west of CP.
Helena
19 Sep 2005 08:27:50 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I11s, I15s and A30s swept quickly through Weynton Pass and arrived off the top end of Blackfish Sound a short while ago. Some boat noise but nice clear mix of calls.
Helena
19 Sep 2005 09:23:31 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It looks like all or most of the groups that headed "out" early this morning are heading back "in". Others, including the G17s, are possibly with them, or following. At the moment, we're listening to the A30s on the Flower Island hydrophone, & we've also heard the I15s. The last of this day & the night ahead could be busy!
Paul
19 Sep 2005 16:56:07 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Sometimes standing still is the perfect thing to do. This evening in front of the lab the I31s, I33s and I11s passed by mid channel ahead of the I15s and the A30s. When just past the lab in they all suddenly made a loud collective burst . Then as they re-surfaced most were pointing the opposite direction towards Blackfish Sound. After some serious milling they all headed off back to the north silently. The evening colours on the calm sea were wonderful and as the whales disappeared we could hear the A12s moving eastward in the Strait. The A12s had passed us just a short while before only they actually made it to the Strait. So CP too had its treat when the A12s passed closely by. Amazing and wonderful.
Helena
19 Sep 2005 19:53:37 PDT

18 September Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

Sorry, it has been a busy morning but we should update everyone. There was a lot of movement during the night. The A12s came back to the Strait at the same time the other groups were east of the Reserve. Early this morning the groups "re-grouped" and came back westward in the Strait. They left the area via Weynton and we eventually picked them up in Blackfish Sound as they continued to make their way to the west. We last heard calls (the I15s and the A30s) around 7:30am.
Helena
18 Sep 2005 09:18:19 PDT

Distant calls audible.

At least some of the groups that headed north early this morning have returned to Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. At the moment, we're hearing the A30s & I15s on the Critical Point hydrophone, as they head to the east. Others are probably there too.
Paul
18 Sep 2005 13:20:16 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

The A30s have reached the entrance of Blackney Pass & are CP - Channel A. Other orcas are spread out across the Strait to the Vancouver Island side.
Paul
18 Sep 2005 13:44:55 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

All the groups have moved down toward the Reserve now. The A30s held off for a while while the I15s and the other groups passed by. We think the A12s, I31s, I11s, I15s and A30s all came in together earlier.
Helena
18 Sep 2005 16:14:18 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Ah Ha! The I15s, A30s and the I11s have come back from the east.
Helena
18 Sep 2005 19:31:00 PDT

No orcas present.

The whales were last heard on the Critical Point hydrophone. We are not sure ,at this point, which direction they decided on. However, the tide is flooding so perhaps they elected to go east.
Helena
18 Sep 2005 22:53:59 PDT

17 September Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

Good morning everyone! Between bouts of boat noise, we've been listening to the A36s, A12s, A30s, I15s & I31s since around 5:30am. The A36s & A12s travelled north through Blackney Pass around 6am. We think the others are still in Johnstone Strait, though it wouldn't be surprising to see them head "out" on the swiftly ebbing tide too.
Paul
17 Sep 2005 07:24:28 PDT

Superb sounds!!

It sounds like the A30s & I31s are together in Robson Bight & are close to the Critical Point hydrophone. For the moment, there is just a little boat noise, so the calls are clear.
Paul
17 Sep 2005 08:03:39 PDT
Superb sounds!!

After hours of silence, the I15s have finally made their continued presence known... they are in Robson Bight with the A30s & I31s.
Paul
17 Sep 2005 08:54:41 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

They are still a bit distant but CP is filming the I15s approaching from the Sophia Islands. The A30s and I31s are not far away but perhaps favouring the Vancouver Island shore.
Helena
17 Sep 2005 10:39:39 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

The orcas in the entrance of Blackney Pass, visible on Channel A, are the A30s and some of the I31s. The I15s are further to the west, as are the other I31s.
Paul
17 Sep 2005 13:27:05 PDT

Superb sounds!!

A mix of I15s, I31s & A30s is in the entrance of Blackney Pass. Some of them are visible on Channel A. Their calls are clear, and for a nice change, there is very little boat noise, so we've sent an alert.
Paul
17 Sep 2005 14:45:25 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

After a wonderful time off CP and then Critical Point the whales have shifted to the Rubbing Beaches.
Helena
17 Sep 2005 18:37:22 PDT


No orcas present.

As you m ay have guessed the whales continued to the east so all is "quiet" now.
Helena
17 Sep 2005 20:09:05 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We began hearing distant "A1" calls on the Flower Island hydrophone about half an hour ago... sounds like the A12s & possibly the A36s are returning!
Paul
17 Sep 2005 23:39:51 PDT

16 September Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

From the sounds the whales seem to be making their way back to the west past the Reserve. We have heard so far the A30s, G17s, possibly the A36s and either (or both) the I11s and I31s. The I15s will probably add themselves to the list at some point as well. Lovely morning, lovely whales even with the persistent boat noise.
Helena
16 Sep 2005 07:16:56 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

Some of the westbound orcas are on the Cracroft Island side of the Strait, passing CP. Channel A. Others are on the Vancouver Island side, near Kaikash. It looks like at least some of them are going to head north through Blackney Pass.
Paul
16 Sep 2005 08:22:08 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We're hearing occasional distant calls on the Critical Point hydrophone as the orcas move to the western end of Johnstone Strait. A few minutes ago, we also heard distant calls on the Flower Island hydrophone, though we're not sure who was making them.
Paul
16 Sep 2005 09:42:00 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We're still hearing occasional distant calls from the various groups (A30s, A36s, I15s, I11s, G17s) that now spread out across Johnstone Strait at the Weynton Pass end. The sounds we heard in Blackfish Sound a while ago were probably from dolphins.
Paul
16 Sep 2005 11:04:28 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

The A30s have tuened back to the east and are now heading past CP. Channel A.
Paul
16 Sep 2005 11:43:23 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The close calls we've been hearing are from A54 & A75. The other A30s are further out in the Blackney Pass "gap". All are foraging. Meanwhile, it looks like the other groups near Weynton Pass may be turning back to the east, though we're not yet sure. Orcas have also recently been sighted near Lizard Point, westbound.
Paul
16 Sep 2005 12:38:53 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s moved off to the west from Blackney Pass a while ago, but have now turned back to the east again. They are visibler on Channel A. We're hearing their calls on the Parson Island Hydrophone. The other groups decided to head north through Weynton Pass, against the flooding tide. Some of them are at the "top" of Blackfish Sound, others are still in Weynton Pass. We're hearing G clan calls in the distance on the Flower Island hydrophone. Meanwhile, a group of transients has been sighted off Bold Head... they are now heading towards the Penfolds.
Paul
16 Sep 2005 14:17:09 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s have moved back towards the west from Blackney Pass, possibly to meet up with the rest of the groups they were with earlier (A12s, A36s, I11s, G17s) now re-entering Johnstone Strait at Weynton Pass.
Paul
16 Sep 2005 15:46:40 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Just a short while ago we started hearing the A36s and G clan calls (I11s most likely) on Flower Island. Previous reports from the whale watch boats had said that the I11s had doubled backed through Weynton Pass after just reaching the Strait. The impression then was that the other groups including the A12s nd the I15s continued east in the Strait. We have not heard any calls other than the A30s in the Strait so we are waiting to see where the various groups end up tonight. So far today we have heard the A30s, A12s, A36s, G17s, I11s and I15s. The I31s were reported east yesterday.
Helena
16 Sep 2005 18:10:08 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

We now believe that all the groups except the A30s went back out Weynton Pass and into Queen Charlotte Strait where they continued off to the west. The A30s are sleeping west of CP and the I31s are probably to the east.
Helena
16 Sep 2005 19:29:03 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We are currently listening to the A36s and the I15s making their way back closer to Blackfish Sound after venturing into Queen Charlotte Strait with the I11s, A12s and G17s. Too early to tell whether or not the I11s and G17s were "dropped off" and have continued to the west. As far as we know the A30s remained behind in the Strait and were last seen a few hours ago resting off of Blinkhorn.
Helena
16 Sep 2005 21:08:10 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It sounds like the A12s are at the "top" of Blackfish Sound, along with the A36s & I15s. We also heard the A30s in Johnstone Strait a while ago. With the moon shining on a calm ocean, this is shaping up to be a lovely night.
Paul
16 Sep 2005 22:47:31 PDT

15 September Orcalab reports:

Superb sounds!!

We are listening to the I15s, A30s, and A12s on the Critical Point hydrophone. It sounds like the whales are enjoying the relief from boat noise as much as we are.
Mary@the Lab
15 Sep 2005 00:27:58 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The A12s and I15s just traveled North through Blackney Pass, we were hearing GI calls on Flower Island before this so perhaps they were going to meet someone. We are not sure what happened to the A30s yet.
Julie @ OL
15 Sep 2005 07:28:53 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We are listening to the A30s on CP right now. The I15s and A12s and possibly some others are spread out from Bold Head to Stubbs Island. We are waiting to find out which way they are headed.
Mary@OL
15 Sep 2005 09:13:07 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

We've got orcas everywhere this morning. The A30s are still hanging out off CP. They are calling occasionally. Up in Blackfish Sound, the A36s, A12s, I15s, and G17s are reported to be nearing Donegal Head. The I31s are to the east, way down near Campbell River. The tide is going to reach maximum flood in about an hour, so we are waiting to see if the big group up to the north will turn and head back this way.
Mary@OL
15 Sep 2005 11:23:53 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The large group have entered the strait through Weynton Passage, we are not sure exactly if everyone came in but if they did, the A12s, A36s, I15s and G17s should now be going east along the Vancouver Island shore. The A30s started going east shortly before they came into the strait.
Julie @ OL
15 Sep 2005 14:37:02 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

We have now all the groups in the Strait. Three groups at the Vancouver Island side near Kaikash and the A36´s and some small fins are with them midchannel at little Kaikash...they coming up to CP now...channel A
Paul T. and Melanie @CP
15 Sep 2005 14:52:43 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

Now the I15´s and maybe the G17´s are in the East of Johnstone Strait, going still east near the Vancouver Island side. The A12´s are now in Blackney Pass after foraging in the Gap. The A36´s are still near CP. Channel A
Paul T and Melanie @CP
15 Sep 2005 16:01:48 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I15´s and maybe the G17´s are in the Bight now. We can here them close to the Crpt Hydrophone. The A36´s are in Blackney and the A12´s are in Blackfish Sound.
Paul T. and Melanie @CP
15 Sep 2005 16:46:43 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A36s are calling on Flower Island again. They sound as if they may have turned back towards us. After a quick rub, all is quiet in the Strait. We will have to wait and see where the I15s, G17s, and A30s ended up.
Mary@OL
15 Sep 2005 18:15:52 PDT

14 September Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

We've been listening to the I31s, who have returned from the east and are in or near Robson Bight. We've been listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone for the past couple of hours. The I15s, and at least some of the "A"s are nearby, also audible on CrPt. Boat noise is dominating the underwater soundscape at present, but hopefully it will end & the orcas will resume calling soon.
Paul
14 Sep 2005 04:56:36 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Good morning everyone! There is instense boat noise everywhere this morning, from the fishing "opening" today, and from other traffic, so it's difficult to hear anything else. We think the I15s, I31s & A30s headed east from Robson Bight around 6am, and there is a recent radio report of orcas, not far to the east, who are westbound.
Paul
14 Sep 2005 09:20:49 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The I15s & at least some of the "As" are at the Main rubbing beach! Channel B.
Paul
14 Sep 2005 12:20:33 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I15s have reached Robson Bight, along with some of the "As", westbound.
Paul
14 Sep 2005 12:45:05 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We believe the I15s , A30s and A12s are coming west. Just now they stalled off the western boundry in the Reserve. The I31s are apparently near Kelsey Bay and the transients have continued west toward Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
14 Sep 2005 13:38:35 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

After A30´s, A12´s and the I15´s passed CP one hour ago to the west, the A12´s back at CP going east again...Channel A
Paul and Melanie@CP
14 Sep 2005 17:33:04 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Although the whales aren't very vocal, we are hearing a couple of A1 calls (probably the A30s) on the Flower Island hydrophone and some very distant calls on Cracroft Point from the A12s and I15s.
Mary @ the Lab
14 Sep 2005 18:43:26 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We actually have the A30s in the Strait with the I15s and A12s. The A36s are calling on Flower Island and we are hoping they will come past the lab before it gets dark.
Mary @ the Lab
14 Sep 2005 19:28:03 PDT

13 September Orcalab reports:

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Good morning everyone! The A30s are back at thr rubbing beaches! They were the first of the groups to come back from the east, around midnight, followed by the A12s, I15s & I31s. By around 4am all the groups had gone back to the east (we think). It now seems that at least some of them are heading west again.
Paul
13 Sep 2005 07:27:21 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

The A30s headed west after their brief rub, and are now back in Ronson Bight, fishing... we're hearing echolocation on the Critical Point hydrophone.
Paul
13 Sep 2005 08:01:32 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Correction to my earlier note - the A12s headed north through Blackney Pass around 2:30am. We've been hearing the A30s in Robson Bight for the past while.
Paul
13 Sep 2005 08:34:00 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

The I15s have surprised us by suddenly appearing close to CP, heading west, foraging as they go. Channel A. other orcas are on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, also westbound, possibly the A30s, though we're not yet sure.
Paul
13 Sep 2005 10:10:25 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

The A30s and the I15s moved past CP to the west earlier. The A30s had moved up to the Big Bay as part of their stall off the entrance of Blackney Pass. The I15s went a little further west but both groups might now be heading back to the entrance & the area off CP.
Helena
13 Sep 2005 12:33:09 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The I15s and A30s have tuned back to the east at the top of Johnstone Strait. The A12s are also reported to be heading this way from the top of Blackfish Sound. If any of the groups are vocal, we should start to hear them soon.
Mary @ the Lab
13 Sep 2005 16:25:53 PDT

Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.

The Johnstone Strait groups (the A30s and the I15s) are passing CP at the moment. only a few calls from the A12s up in Blackfish Sound earlier.
Helena
13 Sep 2005 16:57:25 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A12s are making their way down Blackfish Sound, towards Blackney Pass & Johnstone Strait. We're listening to them on the Flower Island hydrophone.
Paul
13 Sep 2005 18:02:15 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We believe the a12s are on their way toward Blackney but we are not sure what happened to the I15s. We had a report that they had turned at the same time as the A30s but CP only saw the A30s. We are also waiting to determine if the A36s are with the A12s. So lots still to figure out!
Helena
13 Sep 2005 18:15:39 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

We have had quite a few calls. The I15s let us know that they did get down to the Reserve from the west not long ago. There they joined the A30s. While they were chatting it up the A12s came into Blackney Pass and our view. They are still making their way slowly to the south & Johnstone Strait. They are very spread out content so far to take their time.
Helena
13 Sep 2005 19:50:18 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The a12s took a long time getting to the Strait but once they did they did not take long to pass Cracroft Point and head east. We heard the A36s briefly and are not sure if they went "in" or went back out. Perhaps we will know in a while.
Helena
13 Sep 2005 21:30:58 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We re still hearing faint calls in the Strait. generally the whales seemed to be headed east, perhaps taking the Cracroft side instead of going through the Reserve.
Helena
13 Sep 2005 23:07:13 PDT

12 September Orcalab reports:

07:50 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
Good morning everyone! We've been listening to the I15s & A30s in Johnstone Strait for the past several hours, sometimes in Robson Bight & sometimes more distant. At the moment, they are westbound, with the A30s close to CP. Channel A. We think the A12s may have headed north through Blackney Pass around 3am. We don't know where the A36s are, or what happened to the "incoming" orcas sighted heading east from Port Hardy yesterday afternoon. It's a foggy morning here, and the ocean is calm... looks like another fine day ahead.

08:51 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
At least some of the orcas that were near CP a short while ago are heading north into Blackney Pass. The list of groups present in Johnstone Strait this foggy morning is the same as yesterday - A30s, A36s, A12s, I15s. We think the A12s must have re-entered Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass silently. The calls we're listening to are on the Parson Island hydrophone.

10:09 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
This morning is so foggy, it's hard to see what's happening. However, we are fairly sure that the I15s & all the "A1" groups (A30s, A12s, A36s) are in or near the entrance of Blackney Pass. Occasionally, from glimpses in fog, some of them look like they want to head north through Blackney, & others seem to be heading west.

12:37 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The world's greatest pingers, the I31s, have arrived on the scene! Quite possibly, they were part of the large group of orcas sighted heading west from Port Hardy yesterday, though we're not sure. They are presently heading east in Blackfish Sound, so we hope to see them soon. It looks like the I15s, who travelled north through Blackney Pass about an hour ago, may have joined them. Meanwhile, the A12s & A36s are foraging at the "top" of Blackfish, & the A30s are slowly headed east from CP, angling towards Robson Bight.

14:39 PDT Orcas near mics.
we had a visit from some of the I31s, others remained in Blackfish Sound. The small group included I46, I80 and I62 spread out in Blackney, lingered, foraged and milled before turning back to the west to join the rest of their family & the I15s. The A12 s and the A36s moved on to Queen Charlotte Strait. The I15s moved over toward the Hanson Island side of Blackfish Sound putting them between the I31s and the A12s. The A30s as far as we know remaind in the Strait.

16:13 PDT Boat noise
The I15s went back to the Strait via a small passage adjacent to Weynton Pass. The AS30s gave a brief but intense burst of calls just prior to this move. We do not, at this moment, know what happened to the A12s, A36s and the I31s. The A12s were vocal for a time in Blackfish just before the I15s made their move.

17:17 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
We think the a30s have arrived at the beaches while the others make their way east along the Vancouver Island shore from Kaiakash to east of Blinkhorn.

17:44 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A30s have finished their rub abd headed off to the west. The I31s are passing CP to the east. Others are following.

18:06 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A30s have returned to the Bight while the I31s, I15s and A12s continue east toward them.

19:49 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales have arrived at the beaches again. (?As first)

22:53 PDT No orcas present.
We've heard no calls for several hours & think A30s, A12s, I15s, & I31s have headed to the east in Johnstone Strait. The A36s are probably somewhere to the north/west of us. We are waiting.

11 September Orcalab reports:

06:53 PDT Superb sounds!!
Good morning everyone! It's another lovely September morning here, after a very interesting night, not the least of which was a spectacular display of Northern Lights. The A12s headed north through Blackney Pass a little before 11pm, leaving the A30s, A36s & I15s in Johnstone Strait. We heard these groups off & on during the night, sometimes close to the hydrophone in Robson Bight. There were a couple of rubs. At dawn we were listening to the A36s close to the Critical Point hydrophone, and another "A1" group at the beaches. The A1s are now also in Robson Bight. It's possible they are the A30s, though the A12s could have come back into the Strait silently. We think the I15s may be a little to the east, though we're not sure. Altogether, this is shaping up to be another fine day.
Paul
11 Sep 2005 06:53:31 PDT

07:10 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
It sounds like the I15s are back in the Bight, as are the A30s & A36s.

09:11 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The I15s, A30s & A36s are heading west past CP. Channel A.

12:29 PDT Distant calls audible.
The A12s turned up at the top end (western end) of Blackfish Sound. They are headed east. The Johnstone Strait groups (the I15s, A30s and A36s are east bound with some angling straight for CP. CP is filming.


13:15 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
The A12s are heading south through Blackney Pass, swimming quietly in a group, amidst intense boat noise from 2 tugs and other vessels. Meanwhile, the A30s are hanging about at the entrance of Blackney Pass. Channel A.

16:18 PDT Distant calls audible.
After exchanging places with the A12s the A30s travelled north through Blackney Pass and stalled at the western edge of Blackfish Sound. The A12s carried on to the Bight area & the I15s. The A36s followed after pausing at CP. The A30s have since turned and are making their way back toward Blackney Pass. We heard reports today of a large group (including the G17s & the I11s).
Helena
11 Sep 2005 16:18:28 PDT

16:47 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
The A30s turned around in Blackfish Sound & are heading back south through Blackney Pass. They will probably be within sight of CP soon. Meanwhile, a group of orcas is hurrying westward along the Vancouver Island shoreline, presently off Kaikash. Possibly, these are the I15s. Further to the west, a large group of orcas, possibly including the I11s & G17s is heading to the east from Port Hardy, & should be approaching Malcolm Point around now.
Paul
11 Sep 2005 16:47:45 PDT

22:11 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A1s are making their way toward Cracroft Point.

23:05 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
We think all the A1s (A30s, A36s, A12s) are in western Johnstone Strait. At the moment, we're listening to the I15s & A30s, on the Critical Point hydrophone, but the other groups are probably not far away.

10 September Orcalab reports:

08:25 PDT No orcas present.
Good morning everyone! We've heard no calls since around 3:30am, when the A36s & a "G" group of orcas were in Robson Bight. We're not sure what happened to them after that, or what happened to the A30s & A12s after we lost track of them late yesterday afternoon. We are waiting, & enjoying a lovely September morning.

11:54 PDT No orcas present.
We heard a report this morning that the I15s were off Cedarstedt Creek (east of the Reserve) in Johnstone Strait. Just recently, Robson Bight Charters spotted blows not far from Naka Creek which is a bit further to the west of cedarstedt creek. It looks like they may be heading west. Also Discovery Expeditions found a large group of whales near Wells Passage in Queen Charlotte Strait. There has been mention of the A11s. A73, A8s, A12s and possibly I11s as well. This sounds like the group which went west two days ago. We have not had any reports of the A36s, A30s & G17s this morning. There are also lots of humpbacks in the area this morning and 3 harlequin ducks arrived back from their summer haunts.

12:22 PDT Orcas near mics.
The whales have entered the rubbing beaches.

12:28 PDT Distant calls audible.
We can hear the A30s and the I15s at the beaches.

13:08 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The whales did a hurried but intense rub and then quickly left for the west. They are spread out and besides the A30s & I15s we now think the A12s and the A36s are there as well.

14:43 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s, I15s, A12s, & A36s are continuing to the west after passing CP.

16:26 PDT Distant calls audible.
The whales got as far as the wastell Islands just shy of telegraph Cove and turned back to the east. We began hearing the A36s (probably furthest east) first and then the I15s who turned out into mid strait from the Hanson shore. (Stubbs Island report)

19:08 PDT Superb sounds!!
The I15s and the A1s must be in the Bight now. Next stop the beaches?

20:42 PDT Distant calls audible.
It really doesn't sound like any of the whales went to the beaches afterall. We are now mostly hearing the A30s and the I15s. The tide is ebbing and that may be enough to bring them back to the west.

09 September Orcalab reports:

18:02 PDT Orcas near mics.
CP reports that the A30s turned up offshore of Cracroft Point. It is still pretty blowy in the Strait but right now there are dolphins? porpoises? in the waves. Also we briefly heard G clan calls off Critical Point.

20:58 PDT Distant calls audible.
We had a bit of a surprise when a large group od whales suddenly went past CP to the west. They were silent. Our guess is that the Gclan calls we heard briefly earlier were from part of these whales coming west from the Bight area. Perhaps when the very large group of 60 whales that were around two days split into two groups, some going east and others out to the west. Unfortunately they did not leave a clear acoustic trail and we don't know who went where exactly. From the few calls this afternoon we think that maybe the G17s stayed & went east and wonder if the I15s were with them because they had been so friendly that previous morning. Oh well, perhaps the picture will get clearer eventually. Lovely moon tonight - glad to have it back!

23:15 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A36s and someone from the G clan are travelling south through Blackney Pass!

08 Septeber Orcalab reports:

08:24 PDT No orcas present.
Good morning everyone! We've heard no calls since around 4am, when the A30s were audible in the diatance on the Critical Point hydrophone. We're not sure what direction they were going in, or where they are now. We are waiting.

08:50 PDT Orcas hunting fish.
We began hearing echolocation on the Critical Point hydrophone a few minutes ago... sounds like someone is having a bite in the Bight!

10:19 PDT Distant calls audible.
The DFO research vessel, the Roller Bay, confirmed that both the A12s and A30s are in the Strait together. They are spread out and west bound mid strait opposite the Sophia Islands. The Roller Bay will be continuing their prey reseach throughout today.

10:32 PDT Distant calls audible.
CP reports that they now can see the A30s all together midstrait opposite the Sophias. They look, at this point, like they are headed toward CP.

11:04 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
The A12s (in the lead) are about to come into Blackney Pass. Hopefully, the A30s will follow.

11:39 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After a brief rub, the A30s are continuing to the east. Meanwhile, the A12s are heading into Blackfish Sound, travelling quickly on the ebbing tide.

11:43 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
It looks like the A30s have turned back to the west again - they may be going in for another rub!

13:46 PDT Distant calls audible.
We've been hearing occasional distant calls from the A12s after over last while, on the Folower island hydrophone. They are at the "top" of Blackfish Sound, and look like they may head back to Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass soon. We don't know where the A30s are at the moment.

15:50 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The A12s are heading east past CP. Channel A.

17:53 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
The A12s may be heading into Blackney Pass.

18:13 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The A12s remained in the Strait.

19:28 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s finally decided to come through Blackney Pass. They have entered Blackfish Sound now.

23:07 PDT No orcas present.
We've heard no calls for several hours & think the A12s probably continued to the north from Blackfish Sound, & the A30s probably headed east in Johnstone Strait. However, we aren't sure. We are waiting.

07 September Orcalab reports:

08:37 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Good morning everyone! After a night during which the A30s shuffled back & forth between Robson Bight & Blackney Pass, they've finally decided to head east, and are now at the Main rubbing beach. Channel B.

10:25 PDT Orcas near mics.
Earlier this morning the A30s came out of the east and went west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. After travelling a bit further the west (by the sounds) they may have crossed over closer to the Vancouver Island side and then back past the entrance of Blackney and into the Reserve. We heard them again briefly at the beaches and believe now they turned back to the wesy yet again and are currently somewhere in the Reserve. Yesterday, was an intyeresting day, especially after the A12s and the I11s entered the Strait. In total there were about 60 whales. Although it was difficult to track all their movements we think the A30s, I15s and G17s formed one large group that kept to the same general movements. The A12s and the I11s m,ay have picked up the A11s and the A8s after they came out of the east. And perhaps the A12s.I11s etc went off back to the west while the I15s, G17s and A30s went east. Hopefully today will sort out and confusion or whether this was a reasonable guess as to what happened. Time will tell but we won't be surprised by diffeent realities. Stand by!

13:33 PDT Orcas near mics.
The overall picture is a bit clearer thanks to two reports;Robson Bight Charters reported that the A12s were off Camp Point in the lower Johnstone Strait earlier this morning and Troy Bright reported hearing both Gs and As pass Black Bluff around 4:30am headed to the west. We still don't know if all the Gclan groups left the area. We certainly did not pick up any sounds off the top end of Blackfish during the night. Meanwhile, the A30s turned between Little Kaikash and Blinkhorn around 1pm and are now headed east past CP. Very nice calls regardless of the boat noise.

13:36 PDT Orcas near mics.
It looks like A39 is very hungry.

15:54 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The A30s turned back to the east off Big Bay on Hanson Island around 3pm. They are now back in the Blackney Pass "gap", foraging, and are visible on Channel A.

18:55 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A30s moved toward the Reserve a while ago after returning to the Cracroft Point area for another bout of fishing. We had quite a bit of boat noise (still do) but now we can at least clearly hear their calls once more. They sound closer to Critical Point so perhaps they have moved into the Bight.

06 September Orcalab reports

09:01 PDT Boat noise
Good morning everyone... it's another lovely morning here! At the moment, we're only hearing boat noise, but around 7am we began to hear distant I15 & "A" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. We've heard occasional calls since then, but boat noise has been persistent too. We're not sure where the orcas are at the moment, but they're probably not far from Robson Bight.

11:03 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Ok! So this is exciting. At some point in the night the G17s moved into the Strait. They found the I15s and the A30s and all three groups are off Kaikash Creek at the moment perhaps waiting for the A12s and the I11s who are off Donegal Head slowly coming into the area. Not sure if the A12s and the I11s will take Weynton Pass or come down by the Lab. The A30s, I15s and G17s are being very quiet and we have only heard a few I11 calls on the Flower Island system. The A36s are further west in Queen Charlotte Strait also headed east.

11:30 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Adding to today's mix, the A11s & A8s, are heading west past Adams River, on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, and could be approaching the Ecological Reserve in an hour or so. Meanwhile, the I15s, A30s & G17s have turnnd back to the east & are heading for Robson Bight, also close to Vancouver Island.

13:58 PDT Superb sounds!!
Despite the boat noise the day continues to be exciting. There about 60 orcas in the Strait at the moment. They are converging. The I11s and the A12s came in via Blackney (past the Lab). They were all mixed up together, playful and in a hurry. They passed CP (some close) and rushed off to the east and the rest of the waiting groups (the A11s, A8s, A30s, I15s and the G17s). The get together will probably happen offf of the Cliff and Robson Bight. It will be interesting to see how they pull it off.

15:17 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Whales have reached the Beaches.

15:21 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
It sounds like the G17s got there first.

Superb sounds!!
The I15s are now at the beaches taking a turn.

16:53 PDT Superb sounds!!
The a11s have gone into the Main beach as well. The A30s were heard on Critical Point just before this.

17:15 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
We're mostly back to boat noise, but among the many groups in Johnstone Strait today, the A30s are near the Critical Point hydrophone, so we can hear them!

18:30 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The westward moving groups are passing CP now.

05 September Orcalab reports:

08:08 PDT Distant calls audible.
The transients are still calling in Johnstone strait. Overnight: the resident orcas (the A11s, I15s, A8s and the A30s - in that order) headed east past the reserve. We last heard the A30s around 3:30am. We first heard the transients at 2:43am when they were in Blackfish Sound. They quickly moved to the Strait while the A30s enjoyed a rub before moving on to the east after the other resident groups.
Helena
05 Sep 2005 08:08:09 PDT

13:58 PDT No orcas present.
The I15s turned back to the west just before 1pm east of the Reserve. They are just now entering the Reserve at the east end. The A30s were found in the eastern reaches of Johnstone Strait.

21:20 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A30s have joined the I15s after spending the day in the lower Johnstone Strait.

22:19 PDT Superb sounds!!
Very cool A30s and I15s off of the Reserve.

09:03 PDT No orcas present.
Good morning everyone! It's another very foggy morning here & we've heard no calls since around 2:30am, when the I15s & A30s were near Robson Bight. We're not sure what direction they headed in. We are waiting.

09:17 PDT Orcas near mics.
We didn't have to wait long! The calls we're listening to are on the Critical Point hydrophone... sounds ike at least the A30s are back in the Bight!

12:06 PDT Distant calls audible.
Things have moved along since the last report: the A30s continued to the west and the I15s have come up along the Cracroft Island shore towards CP.

13:50 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
Another group of orcas, probably the A11s and A8s, is heading west in Johnstone Strait, some are approaching CP. Channel A. Meanwhile, the I15s are headed west from Blackney Pass, & the A30s are headed east from Blinkhorn.

14:18 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The A30s are in the entrance of Blackney Pass, & the A8s are off CP. Channel A.

16:18 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
it has been a very full afternoon with the A11s/A73 7 a8s coming up from "below" to join the I15s and the A30s. The A30s have blended with the A11s and the a8s west of CP and are now on their way over to join the I15s who are closer now to the Vancouver Island shore. The I15s had been close to CP before their move west and they were followed by the A11s & A8s soon after. The small humpback just went past CP.

19:30 PDT Distant calls audible.
The whales continue to be in the far western section of the Strait and so we are still hearing distant calls.

22:16 PDT Superb sounds!!
After moving west slowly in Johnstone Strait for most of the day, the whales turned to the east at about 7pm. The A11s are probably ahead and have passed CP with the A8s, A30s and I15s making their way to the east behind them under a beautiful star filled sky.

08:05 PDT Orcas near mics.
Good morning everyone! We listened to the I15s hanging out in or near Robson Bight throughout the night, but lost track of them a little after 6am. We think they may have headed east, but we're not sure. A short while ago, we began hearing "A" "resting" calls close to the Critical Point hydrophone, so it seems likely that at least some of the orcas in the Strait yesterday are still nearby. It's another very foggy morning here, so visibility is poor.

08:55 PDT Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s are both in the Strait perhaps moving westward toward the area off the entrance of Blackney Pass. Very foggy this morning.

11:01 PDT Distant calls audible.
The A30s turned near Blinkhorn around 10:10 am and have been making their way back to the east ever since. They are now mid strait just about opposite the entrance to Blackney Pass. I41 is travelling with them. Other I15s are closer to the Vancouver Island side not far from the Reserve's western boundary. The fog is lifting.

12:46 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The whales are approaching CP along the Cracroft Island side from the east.

16:17 PDT Distant calls audible.
The calls of the I15s and the A30s are getting stronger on Critical Point despite the constant boat noise. Both groups are now moving toward & into the Reserve.

16:35 PDT Superb sounds!!
The A30s and the I15s are in the Bight. Lovely!

17:52 PDT Boat noise
It seems that the A30s and the I15s have moved off of Critical Point. The tide is at slack and will turn to an ebb pretty soon so we will have to see where these two groups turn up next. They certainly sounded like they are still enjoying each other's company! Meanwhile we will have to wait out the boat noise of what ever is going past the Bight right now.

22:07 PDT Orcas near mics.
A few hours after the last calls the I15s have returned to the Bight. Most likely they had gone off to the east with the A30s earlier.

05:18 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
It sounds like the A11s & A8s have come back from the east again & are with the A30s & I15s in Robson Bight again... we are listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone.

09:55 PDT Distant calls audible.
Good morning everyone! We're hearing distant calls from the I15s & A30s as they make their way to the west in Johnstone Strait. We're not sure what happened to the A4s & A5s after their brief appearance earlier this morning.

11:10 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The whales have turnedand are headed back to the east. Some are already in the entrance of Blackney while others are moving along the Vancouver Island shore.

11:332 PDT Superb sounds!!
The A30s are in front of CP.

12:17 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
We have now been listening to A4 & I15 calls as well as the A30s.

16:16 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Time again to catch up: The A30s stayed forever off of CP while the I15s went off to the Rerserve with the A11s and the A8s. After their rub we heard the I15s,A4s and the A5s return to tthe Robson Bight area. The A30s left to the east and were last seen angling over towards Izumi.

18:22 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups are moving up the Vancouver Island shore to the west, the lead group is approaching Little Kaikash just past the Blackney Pass entrance.

19:10 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
As we suspected the whales have turned. Straitwatch confirmed this for us and apparently they turned just shy of Blinkhorn and began to angle towards CP.

21:17 PDT Orcas near mics.
it sounds like everyone (A11s,A8s,A73,A30s & I15s) have returned to the area off the Bight. There has already been one cruiseship pass through and perhaps another is on its way through Blackfish. In between is nice.

01 September Orcalab reports:

08:44 PDT Distant calls audible.
Good morning everyone! After a concert that went on for hours in Robson Bight, the I15s & A30s have finally moved off to the west. They are presently off Kaikash, on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait. We're hearing them on the CP & Parson Island hydrophones.

09:54 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The I15s & A30s have turned back to the east, and are now coming within range of the surface camera at CP. Channel A.

10:50 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
Cp is still filming. The A30s are in the entrance to Blackney Pass. The I15s are sort of heading west along the Hanson shore from Big Bay.

13:30 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have made it to the Main rubbing beach! Channel B.

13:53 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have finished at the beaches and are headed back to the west.

15:32 PDT Distant calls audible.
Time to catch up: The a30s left the beaches at 1:48pm and came back to the Reserve. Both the I15s and the A30s have since continued moving to the west. however, the whales are spread out and there has been a fair amount of stop & go.

17:07 PDT Distant calls audible.
The a30s and the I15s continued to the west. The I15s were favouring the Cracroft and Hanson side while the A30s kept closer to the Vancouver island shore.

19:26 PDT Superb sounds!!
The A30s are getting louder on Parsons Island, we haven't heard the I15s for a while. Maybe they are headed to the east we will have to wait and see.

21:56 PDT No orcas present.
We believe the a30s went east. We lost track of the I15s after they went to the west with the A30s earlier and wonder if they went out Weynton?