A30s and Transients in the area

No calls but orcas nearby

Whales everywhere, both transients and residents! The A30s were in Johnstone Strait this morning and may have just come through Blackney Pass headed to Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, there were also transients in Weynton Pass. Last night, we heard distant A1 calls around 2:15am.
Helena
07 Oct 2008 16:06:16 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We are hearing calls once again in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
07 Oct 2008 19:17:13 PDT

A30s travel from the Bight to the west

Distant calls audible.

We're hearing distant calls amidst heavy boat noise on the Crritical Point hydrophone, probably from the A30s, who came back into Johnstone Strait around 9pm. (Our internet connection was down at the time).
Helena
05 Oct 2008 02:48:18 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Our connection has been unstable today. However, here is a short update of the day's events so far. The A30s disappeared to the east, oast Robson Bight, around 3am. They recently have returned to the Bight (around 10am). Prior to the A30s' return, a small group of transients were in Blackney Pass in the middle of about 500 dolphins, sealions and two humpbacks. In a second, the dolphins and sealion porpoised awy to the west and the humpbacks disappeared. The transients lingered a while longer before sauntering off to the west also.
Helena
05 Oct 2008 11:38:41 PDT

No orcas present.

We heard from the A30s once again earlier this evening. They became quiet after reaching the area off the entrance of Blackney Pass. Meanwhile, the transients of this morning turned out to be the T55s (thanks to Graeme Ellis for the identification and later updates) who apparently made an extensive tour of the whole area, ending up in Blackfish Sound at the same time the A30s were off Blackney Pass in Johnstone Strait. They may have turned back to the west. Also, the Island Roamer found another transient group in Baronet Channel headed toward Knight Inlet. A busy and at times very wet day!
Helena
05 Oct 2008 22:33:48 PDT

A30s heading towards the Bight

Distant calls audible.

We're hearing occasional calls on the Critical Point hydrophone, along with persistent boat noise. Sounds like the A30s have come back into Johnstone Strait, probably via Weynton Pass.
Helena
02 Oct 2008 01:12:01 PDT

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since early this morning, and don't know what happened to the A30s, who were in Johnstone Strait at the time (around 1:30am).
helena
02 Oct 2008 13:42:44 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby

Just after we posted our last note, we heard (from the Naiad Explorer) that the A30s are foraging in the entrance of Blackney Pass, off CP. They are silent, so far as we know. Some dolphins (about 6) are there too.
Helena
02 Oct 2008 14:04:18 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s are slowly making their way to the east in Johnstone Strait & are mid-strait off Kaikash pointing towards the western boundary of the Reserve. They are silent. Meanwhile, the A36 brothers have just been sighted at the "top" of Blackfish Sound & are slowly heading east towards Blackney Pass & Johnstone Strait.
Helena
02 Oct 2008 17:30:52 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We most likely are hearing the A36s in Blackfish Sound while the A30s continue in Johnstone Strait. Dolphins are vocal as well in the Strait.
Helena
02 Oct 2008 19:25:50 PDT

A30s spent the day in Queen Charlotte Strait

No orcas present.

The A30s spent the day in Queen Charlotte Strait after their morning session in Blackfish Sound. They apparently were very spread out the entire time, mostly north west of Lizard Point. After 4pm they were last seen heading west from Bere Point. Thanks to Stubbs Island for the update. No sign of the A36s who we last heard around 10pm in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
03 Oct 2008 17:52:10 PDT

A30s travel north trough Blackney Pass

Superb sounds!!

We're listening to close calls & echolocation on the Critical Point hydrophone. After intense boat noise for the past while, there is almost none now, so the A30 calls are clear!
Helena
01 Oct 2008 08:14:34 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s just went north through Blackney Pass. They were altogether mid channel as they went into Blackfish Sound.
Helena
01 Oct 2008 12:09:22 PDT

A30s moved form Blackfish Sound to the Robson Bight

Distant calls audible.

The A30s have been in Blackfish Sound all morning, moving back and forth. Lots of boat noise and a few calls.
Helena
30 Sep 2008 13:49:27 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We're listening to the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. They have finally made it into Johnstone Strait, traveling south through Blackney Pass, all together, in a great rush, silently, and are now heading east towards Robson Bight, calling occasionally.
Helena
30 Sep 2008 16:30:35 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s sound as if they might be nearing the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
30 Sep 2008 22:15:30 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are in Robson Bight & Pacific whitesided dolphins are in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
30 Sep 2008 23:00:59 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s were sighted in Queen Charlotte Strait earlier today, though we didn't hear them passing through from Johnstone Strait. We don't know where they are at the moment.
Helena
29 Sep 2008 17:39:31 PDT

No orcas present.

We have a somewhat connection so I thought to catch everyone up. Yesterday, was our first day in quite a while that there were no resident orcas around this area. We think the A30s went out to Queen Charlotte Strait the day before. Today, they were located there. Also, some transient groups and pacific whiteside dolphins have been around.
Helena
28 Sep 2008 19:36:48 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are back and in the Bight already!
Helena
28 Sep 2008 22:11:57 PDT

A30s left to the east

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since yesterday afternoon, when we think the A30s were headed east from Robson Bight. No reports that we're aware of either. We are waiting.
Helena
26 Sep 2008 17:45:23 PDT

A30s left to the east

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since yesterday afternoon, when we think the A30s were headed east from Robson Bight. No reports that we're aware of either. We are waiting.
Helena
26 Sep 2008 17:45:23 PDT

A30s resting and traveling to Blackfish Sound

No calls but orcas nearby

We began hearing the A30s calling on the CP hydrophone a little before 5:45am. Since then we've heard occasional "resting" (N3) calls. We think the A30s came from the east & are probably heading west in Johnstone Strait, though we're not sure. An orangey dawn is beginning here & a southeast wind is starting to blow.
Helena
23 Sep 2008 06:31:28 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s are still in the vicinity of the entrance to Blackney Pass. They have been there most of the morning.
Helena
23 Sep 2008 11:05:17 PDT

Boat noise

The A30s have made their way north through Blackney Pass & are now in Blackfish Sound. A fuel barge is also heading north, making lots of noise.
Helena
23 Sep 2008 13:31:15 PDT

A30s still alone in the area

Superb sounds!!

The A30s are in Robson Bight, very vocal, water noise is from a strong northwest wind.
Helena
22 Sep 2008 00:49:44 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s have been fairly active throughout the night. Between 4 and 5am they were off the Bight and now they may be heading back west along the Vancouver Island side near Kaikash Creek.
Helena
22 Sep 2008 09:00:01 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Once again we are listening to the A30s near the Ecological Reserve. Earlier, the A30s went out via Blackney Pass.
Helena
22 Sep 2008 21:45:13 PDT

A30s navigating in the area

No orcas present.

The a30s sure have been interesting lately. Yesterday, we had the feeling that they went east of Robson Bight. In the morning, they turned up in Blackney Pass. After a circle around hanson Island they ended up traveling back to the east once again. But tracking their movements has proven to be a wee bit of a challenge as they are travelling, for the most part, silently. Today, was no exception and except for a brief burst of calls upon entering Johnstone Strait in the afternoon and after another even shorter bout when they were near the Bight, there has been very long and silent gaps. This often happens when a single group is by themselves and they are travelling closely together but it keeps us on our toes and we are not surprised to find them in any location.So far tonight, the last known location was near the Bight.
Helena
21 Sep 2008 22:45:07 PDT

A30s foraging

Orcas near mics.

The A30s came back to Johnstone Strait this morning and went east past Robson Bight. They are just now returning to the Bight headed west. We have heard close echo location.
Helena
20 Sep 2008 10:47:35 PDT


Seasmoke reports

The A30 matriline were reported in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, they were at the east end, headed east but turned and began making their way back to the west. While most of the blows could be seen at Critical Point inside the Reserve, two orcas were sighted on the Cracroft side, they were identified as A30 and A38. They were foraging steadily to the west, as were the rest of the family, parallel on the VI shore inside the Reserve. Two pacific white-sided dolphins were observed swimming nearby which resulted in A30 and A38 taking long dives. A38 surprised everyone when he suddenly appeared alongside the boat, he had traveled a distance from his last dive sighting, near his mother, who was still traveling close to the Cracroft shore. The orcas were obviously searching for food, they were focussed, intent on feeding. A30 and A38 made their way over to the VI shore, all of the orcas remained spread out, intent on foraging along the VI shore.

Orcas near mics.

We have been listening to the A30s once again close to Critical Point.
Helena
19 Sep 2008 03:06:49 PDT

Seasmoke reports
While a heavy fog was present for most of the tour, resident orcas, the A30 matriline (9 orcas in total) were sighted. It is always exciting finding orcas in the fog when they have been reported in the area. Blows were heard and then finally black fins appeared looming through the water. It was a great viewing with all of the 9 individual orcas being seen even though they were well spread out and heading west from Blackfish Sound to Donegal Head.

Hi Paul & Helena, Kate and I spent 5 hours watching the A30,s foraging and resting off Bere & Malcolm Points. We last saw them headed east passing Bere Point at 19:00hrs, aprox 1mile offshore. Inbound. Take Care & hope they make it back down your way.
Troy@Malcolm Island
19 Sep 2008 21:23:09 PDT

A30s with I31s in Johnstone Strait and the Robson Bight

Distant calls audible.

Our up and down internet is difficult to work around and today was no exception. For your information: In short, the A12s went out via Blackney Pass just before 1 am. That left the A30s and the I31s still in johnstone Strait. This afternoon these two groups came back into range from the east. It was a pretty low keyed day with the I31s doing most of the vocals, and most of the time, just resting calls. We are not sure where the A36s ended up. Now, the fog has closed in.
Helena
14 Sep 2008 18:40:32 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Lovely sounds from the A30s and the I31s in the Bight!
Helena
14 Sep 2008 19:41:36 PDT

A30s arrived from the east with A36s

Multiple pod calls audible.

Right now we are listening to the A30s, A36s, A12s and the I31s. Earlier today the A12s went west into Queen Charlotte Strait and picked up the I31s while the A30s hooked up with the A36s who possibly arrived back from the east. Before the A12s returned with the I31s via Weynton Pass this afternoon, the A30s and the A36s paced Johnstone Strait. As they all got togethereast of the entrance to Weynton Pass a small group of transients decided the Strait was too crowded and they turned back east just shy of Cracroft Point. The resident groups are now east bound as well.
Helena
13 Sep 2008 17:28:51 PDT

A30s and A12s at Blinkhorn early this morning

Seasmoke reports

We encountered the A30’s and the A36 boys at Blinkhorn on our tour early this morning. They were well spread out foraging, working their way to the west with the ebb current, the A36’s going the furtherest west. At one point the A30’s stopped to rest, as did A37 and A46. A-Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone, resting calls and then calls where we observed A30 (the matriarch) to begin moving further west and soon the A30 pod had formed a resting line, moving slowly west in the ebb current.

A30s off the Sophia Islands

Seasmoke reports

The A30’s were sighted off the Sophia Islands this morning heading to the west, their blows could be seen a distance away. They were well spread out and began foraging intensely in the heavy flood current at Blakney Passage, at one point they were seen heading to the west along the Hanson Island Shore and as suddenly they turned back and in a traveling line, passed nearby the boat on their way back to forage again in Blackney Passage.

A30s in Johnstone Strait travelling east

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s are spread out off the Sophias, heading west, should be within range of the CP hydrophone soon.
Helena
12 Sep 2008 09:30:26 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Nice day, the A12s came back in via Weynton Pass while the A30s stalled off of Cracroft Point. TheA12s made an initial attempt to come through Blackney Pass after they arrived off the entrance of Blackney Pass. They retreated briefly but then traelled all the way through to Blackfish Sound. They moved slowly and stayed together in mid channel. The A30s finally moved on themselves but they stayed in Johnstone Strait. However, they were like the A12s and travelled mid strait as they went east. Just a few calls and then silence.
Helena
12 Sep 2008 17:16:01 PDT

A30s foraging, heading east

Seasmoke reports

The orcas that were sighted were east of the east end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and they were identified as the A30’s. They were well spread out and also heading east, foraging as they went; several pacific white-sided dolphins were intermingling among them, the orcas were consequently taking long dives. A39 was the first orca we sighted, he was heading to the west foraging steadily at the time of our first excited sighting. A72 (Bend) was also sighted foraging near to A50 (mother) and A84 (sibling), they were foraging very close to the Cracroft Island shoreline; A38 and A30 were also seen, as were A54 and her two calves. Just prior to our leaving the area, A39, traveling back to the east to catch up with his family,

A30s in Blackfish Sound

Seasmoke reports

With reports of orcas heading east in Johnstone Strait towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve we headed in that direction briefly, sighting a Black Bear that was foraging on the beach at low tide. When orcas were reported in Blackfish Sound we veered north, passing through the Blowhole into Blackfish Sound where we encountered the A30’s who were traveling west, foraging along the Swanson Island shore. It was wonderful viewing them as they foraged back and forth steadily, heading west off Bold Head and towards Donegal Head; they were well spread out.
The A30’s who were quiet earlier began to vocalize and passengers enjoyed listening to their A-Clan calls. It was exciting when A54 and her two calves who had been foraging 200 meters distance away, suddenly turned towards the boat as it sat idle and drifting and swam alongside of and under the boat, much to the delight and wonder of all on board.

A30s and A24s near Malcolm Island

Ellen reports

Down at the backside of Malcolm Island we meet up with the A30s, and a whole bunch of their friends, I id A60 and A66 in there, also A24s, so it seems the same bunch we saw last week. They were in resting mode, but we had a few spyhops and lots of tailslaps, so lots to see.
The whales went off toward Fife Sound as we watched just off Lizard Point and the A36s were reported up north near Pile Island, so we are wondering if they escorted the I11s out and are bringing new ones back with them.
Ellen@Port McNeill
01 Sep 2008 17:12:49 PDT

A30s foraging west of Blinkhorn

Seasmoke reports
The A30’s were foraging west of Blinkhorn on the VI shore, they were well spread out and close to the shore, their foraging was intense and it was wonderful listening to their A-Clan calls via the hydrophone as they foraged.

A30s traveling with the A5s

Seasmoke reports

Today proved to be a day of wonderful viewing despite the heavy rain! On the morning tour passengers had the experience of sailing with the whales: the A8’s, A23’s and the A30’s and while under sail, by trailing the hydrophone, passengers were able to listen to their wonderful A-Clan vocals as they foraged. On the afternoon sail time was spent with the I12’s, they were also foraging and I47 surprised everyone when surfacing near to the boat, allowing a wonderful and unforgettable sight!

A30s near Malcom Island

Ellen reports:
We rounded Malcolm Point we saw the first Orcas. I was able to id I64 right away and there was an awful lot of familiar tall dorsal fins in there... I had a feeling we had the A36s there. The whales were heading for the beaches at Bere Pt and we witnessed a short rub there, amazing! Lots of socialization, amazing vocals, spyhops, breaches, everything in the orca manual book :) All in all I was positively able to id the A30s, A24s, A23's, A8s, A36s, I11s I hope I didn't miss anyone.
Ellen@Port McNeill
27 Aug 2008 17:20:02 PDT

A30s sighted near Donegal Head, moving east

SEasmoke reports
On the way home, passengers on MV Cetacea enjoyed viewing the A30’s as they made their way east towards Donegal Head on Malcolm Island.

A30s calls audible above the waterline

Seasmoke reports

There were several pods spread out across the strait traveling to the west, foraging along the way: the A30’s, A23’s, A8’s and A25’s. Quality time was spent with the A30’s and the A23’s as they foraged back and forth, their A-Clan calls were clearly audible both above and below the waterline. Hearing their vocals above the water added to the magic of the viewing and delighted everyone on board. When the orcas turned and headed back to the east towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve some social behaviour was observed and included spyhopping, tail slapping and pectoral slapping which was intriguing to watch.

A30s traveling west in JS and went east in the afternoon

Seasmoke reports

There were several pods spread out across the strait traveling to the west, foraging along the way: the A30’s, A23’s, A8’s and A25’s. Quality time was spent with the A30’s and the A23’s as they foraged back and forth, their A-Clan calls were clearly audible both above and below the waterline.
When the orcas turned and headed back to the east towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve some social behaviour was observed and included spyhopping, tail slapping and pectoral slapping which was intriguing to watch.

A30s with A8s and A24s on transit

Seasmoke reports

There were many orcas to be seen in Johnstone Strait this morning, several pods were in transit, the A12’s, A30’s, A8’s and A24’s.

A30s foraging at Beaver Cove

Seasmoke reports

On the afternoon tour, it was surprising to find the A30’s foraging at Beaver Cove shortly after departing from Alder Bay. Even though rain was falling gently, the sightings of the 9 orcas and the sounds of their A-Clan vocalizations as they foraged were superb! Passengers enjoyed some wonderful viewing, especially of A38 and A30 as they passed nearby the boat as it sat idle and drifting; foraging and traveling behaviour was observed when the pod made their turn back to the east and we left them at Blinkhorn.

A30s with I31s in Blackfish Sound

We are so sorry that the live audio is still not working.But the internet is still on and off. A short update. The A12´s, all A5´s and the A24´s are in the bight, close to the hydrophone we can hear A12calls. A55, A62, A67 and A83 were a bit far off the others. All going east. We had a report of the A36´s coming up from the east. So maybe they join the others soon. This morning we had the A30´s with the I31´s in Blackfish Sound, after the A30´s went out last night they brought the I31´s back in. But they went already out again to the west.
Melanie
15 Aug 2008 15:42:25 PDT

A30s with A12s, A5s and A4s heading east

Orcalab reports:

Just try to give you an update. Our connection is still on and off. We had the A30s, A36s, A12s and A11s yesterday joining the A5s and A24s in Johnstone Strait. The A36s and A12s went far to the east. Today we have the A12s, A30s, A5s and A24s in the strait, going back and forth. The A11s went out yesterday evening. We saw the new calf of A35 and A64. They looking great. It's so good to see new babys. Now somebody is rubbing without calling. The rest is still in the bight. We had a report that all groups going slowly to the east. Maybe they will pick up the A36s, which were on the way back to the west. Lets see.
Melanie
14 Aug 2008 18:40:25 PDT

A30s with A24s in Weynton Passage

Seasmoke reports:

Today has to be one of the best days of the season with many pods of orcas being present in Johnstone Strait. Because the pods were so spread out it was not possible to see them all. Time was spent viewing the A30’s and A24’s and on the way home, up in Weynton Passage, the A11’s were sighted. The lighting was glorious with the sun shining on them as they lay resting on the surface of the water, as well, there were multiple spy-hops observed which delighted everyone on board.Stubbs whale watching reports:
This morning the fog added to the magic when the sun finally came through. We found the killer whales mostly by listening with the hydrophone and their blows. The orcas would appear and then disappear in the mist It was amazing! The whales led us out of the fog and we observe interaction between the orca's and Dall's porpoise. we even observed behaviour that may have been nursing under water with A54 and her youngest calf.

In the afternoon the sun shone and it was fabulous, it was the first time this season our naturalists were able to go without their jackets. On the way down Johnstone Strait we had the most incredible bow-riding Pacific white-sided dolphins. They were porpoising and riding in the wake of the boat. We then encountered the A30's; A23's; and possibly the A8's. On our way back up Blackfish Sound we found the A11's in Weynton Pass.

A1s all together at Malcolm Island

Seasmoke reports:

The A36’s were sighted at the top end of Malcolm Island, they were foraging and then turned east with other incoming pods who were also sighted close-by, the A30’s and the A12’s. All pods were moving steadily eastbound.
Spy-hopping, tail slapping and breaching was observed. On the afternoon tour, passengers aboard the SV Tuan were delighted to view the same incoming pods as they headed east from Lizard Point, foraging and resting behavior was observed, some resting calls were heard via the hydrophone.

A30s near Robson Bight

Seasmoke reports

Orcas were reported east bound in the fog bank on the VI shore, passing into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and hidden in the fog. Crossing Blakney Passage and nearing Cracroft Point on the other shore, a curtain of fog lifted revealing a very large dorsal fin and other smaller fins in the distance. What a surprise for the excited guests on board catching their first glimpse of orcas! A38 was foraging suddenly nearby, followed by A39, both of them proceeding a little further west foraging. The rest of the A30’s who had been foraging formed a resting line and began making their way very slowly, crossing the strait towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. A39 who had made his way more centre strait turned, as did A38 and both began moving east in the direction of their family.

Seasmoke reports:

The pods seen today were the same as yesterday, all of the A5’s and the A30’s. It is reassuring to see that their travel to the far east (traveling great distances) in search of food has changed in recent days and they are spending more time in the western part of Johnstone Strait, foraging in the area from the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve up to Turn Point or further west to the Stephenson Islands and Beaver Cove, then turning back to the east. On our tours today they were observed to be foraging most of the time, in their family groups, well spread out across the strait. Some half breaches, resting, a spyhop and some playful interaction between siblings were also observed.

A30s in Blackfish Sound

Seasmoke reports

The A30’s were sighted heading in from Bold Head. It was exciting viewing. A39 was sighted followed by the A54’s and a single Pacific White-sided Dolphin who was swimming with them. The A50’s foraged near to the boat delighting passengers; the two calves played on the surface for a time and it was interesting to hear a single call on the hydrophone and watch as the two calves raced after their mother. A 38 was also seen at a distance where the small nick near the top of his dorsal fin could be seen by binoculars.

A30s heading west from the Ecological Reserve

When the SV Tuan headed out on tour this afternoon there were reports of orcas heading east at the east end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve (A30’s, A23’s, A8’s) and orcas heading west, west of Lizard Point (A12’s). We began by heading west but when a report came in that some of the pods had turned back to the west at the east end of the reserve, we headed in that direction. The heavy flood current had us make our way swiftly down Blackfish Sound and we were soon in Johnstone Strait where blows and the dorsal fins of the orcas could be seen heading in our direction. A large dorsal fin was sighted nearby, identified as A38 (oldest surviving son of A30 from the A30 pod). He was separate from his family who were much further east in Johnstone Strait, he was observed foraging intensely, moving back and forth. The A8’s were also foraging steadily along the Cracroft shore, turning back at times to forage then moving west against the flood current, taking long dives. One lucky passenger managed to snap a wonderful photo when one of the orcas spy-hopped, delighting everyone. A few dall’s porpoises were observed to be traveling with the A8’s as they crossed Blakney Passage in the heavy flood current.

A30s foraging in JS

Seasmoke reports
As we neared the approaching orcas on the VI shore, the engine was cut and the hydrophone deployed. Several small groups were observed foraging close to the shore but in the shaded waters it was not easy to identify them. The A30’s were present and some other pods, possibly G-Clan pod(s), G-Clan calls were heard, as well as A-Clan calls. The A30’s were superb! Foraging further out from the shore they were clearly visible and passengers had some memorable moments when they turned to travel back to the east passing nearby. A few more delightful moments were spent watching A73 (Bend) stopping near-by to nudge up to and against a log as though in play. The orcas were seen to be foraging intensively, and passengers watched as A30 foraged back and forth, A38 also foraged nearby with his mother.

A30s joined I31s in Blackfish Sound

Multiple pod calls audible.

It seems we're connected again, after being down most of the night. Sorry about that, as it has been very exciting vocally & socially. There has been a lot of movement since yesterday. The groups that were in the east came quickly back to the west in the afternoon & met up with the I15s/I31s, who had spent hours resting in western Johnstone Strait yesterday afternoon before heading into the beaches for an excited rub just before the A11s & co met them around 7pm. The A12s & A36s came back into the Strait via Weynton Pass & headed east just before dark. Most of the groups headed north via Blackney Pass around midnight & then headed back into the Strait around 3am. At the moment, the A30s & I31s are in Blackfish Sound. We think the A12s headed east from Robson Bight around 3am.
Helena
29 Jul 2008 06:18:23 PDT

The A30s joining the A5s and A24s in lower JS

Multiple pod calls audible.

A lot has been happening while we were "down". First of all, this morning we have heard the I15s and possibly other G clan members arrive into Johnstone Strait. We are also hearing A1 calls and hopefully soon will sort out who. Yesterday, the A30s continued west toward the A24s and A5s who spent the day in the Lower Johnstone Strait (Nick Templeman report). Then yesterday evening, A12 and A33 travelled through Blackfish Sound,Blackney Pass and into Johnstone Strait. They were first seen by Troy Bright at Berre Point. They looked well and energetic, foraging as they travelled past us. A small minke kept company briefly. Again this morning, we had a group of dolphins who added to the mix.
Helena
27 Jul 2008 08:00:39 PDT


Multiple pod calls audible.

After passing the Beaches, the I15s, I31s and the A36s turned back to the west. They have now passed CP and are on their way west. The A11s, who were seen earlier have not been yet identified as part of this western run. Meanwhile, the A30s,A5s, A12s and A24s were in the Lower Johnstone Strait where at least some, if not all, went southeast of Nodales Channel.
Helena
27 Jul 2008 17:15:14 PDT

The A30s are back!

Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

There are distant calls on Critical Point, perhaps the whales coming back from the east.
Helena
26 Jul 2008 09:22:59 PDT

Distant calls audible.

No, No, No.... the calls are not from the groups coming from the east but newly arriving A30s via Weynton Pass! Yes! Yes! Yes! Helena
Helena
26 Jul 2008 10:03:32 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s continued east. They are now just about to enter the Ecological Reserve. Meanwhile, the A5s and A24s were reported off Camp Point (east Johnstone Strait) this morning.
Helena
26 Jul 2008 11:04:08 PDT
Distant calls audible.

The A30s are actually calling now.
Helena
26 Jul 2008 11:06:29 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s are at the Rubbing Beaches now.
Helena
26 Jul 2008 11:58:59 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A23s and the A8s went up to the western end of Hanson Island by 6pm. From there they turned back to the east and just a short while ago we heard them off of Cracroft Point. Perhaps they will continue eastward. The tide is dropping but they have been swimming against the tide all day. Interesting note: CetaceaLab has seen the A30s and A4s and heard A5 calls as well. Seeming the A51s have not been seen here we have to conclude they are still north.
Helena
07 Jul 2008 19:41:29 PDT

No orcas present.

A note from CetaceaLab (http://www.whaleresearch.ca/) that they saw the A30s on June 30th.
Helena
02 Jul 2008 10:46:22 PDT

25 June 2008, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

The A30s headed north through Blackney Pass around 8pm yesterday & have not yet returned. We are waiting.
Helena & Paul
25 Jun 2008 11:43:45 PDT

24 June 2008, Orcalab reports:

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s have arrived! They came "in" via Blackney Pass at around 3pm today, and were spread out as they headed into Johnstone Strait. Unfortunately, our internet connection is still down, so we are unable to stream live audio & enable you to hear their their calls. But just the same, this is an exciting day, and we hope there will be many more to come this summer!
Paul & Helena
24 Jun 2008 20:31:35 PDT

03 October 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

There haven't been any orca reports this morning and that leaves us with last night's impression that the A36s continued through Blackfish Sound to the west and the A30s still in the Strait. However, the last A30 calls at 10:40pm were very distant and it may be that they were headed for Weynton Pass to follow the A36s. This morning, grey and damp, there are several humpbacks in Blackney Pass and Blackfish Sound. At night the ocean is full of breaths, from humpbacks and sea lions and sometimes the orcas too. Hard to feel alone and isolated.
Helena
03 Oct 2007 09:50:59 PDT

02 October 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

We are still unfortunately not broadcasting as we are still doing some maintenance on the system. In the menatime, the A30s and the A36s went east. The A30s have returned (waiting to hear if the A36s are with them) and are westbound past the Ecological Reserve. Today, we also had a huge downpouring of rain followed by the fullest and most beautiful rainbow over Blackney Pass ever.
Helena
02 Oct 2007 20:11:43 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A36s have turned up in Blackfish Sound. Perhaps they travelled through Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait. The A30s have grown quiet but may still be in the Strait.
Helena
02 Oct 2007 22:45:31 PDT

01 October 2007, Orcalab reports:

No calls but orcas nearby

The A36s have made it back to Johnstone Strait after a long absence. Just now they were off Cracroft Point with a group of dolphins. Both have now become quiet. It will be interesting to find out where the A30s are and if the A36s will stay around for a bit.
Helena
01 Oct 2007 04:32:03 PDT

Boat noise

Between 6:30am and 7am we heard both the A30s and the A36s in johnstone Strait. Our impression was that they were eastbound through the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. There was a lot of boat noise in the Strait (there is a rare fishing opening today) and so the direction the whales took is still not absolute.
Helena
01 Oct 2007 09:00:34 PDT


No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since early this morning & understand that the A30s & A36s were still headed east in Johnstone Strait in mid afternoon (past Eve River). Hopefully, they'll come back before too long.
Helena
01 Oct 2007 22:36:55 PDT

30 September 2007, Orcalab reports:


No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s popped up suddenly in front of CP a short while ago. They then entered Blackney Pass silently and travelled north. They are now in Blackfish Sound. The A36s, earlier, around 10:40am, headed off to the west in Queen Charlotte Strait. It is not clear at the moment whether they continued westward or if they might be waiting for the A30s to catch-up.
Helena
30 Sep 2007 13:50:40 PDT

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since early this afternoon & have nothing new to report. Our imprression was that the A30s probably headed north into Queen Charlotte Strait, as did the A36s earlier in the day. However, we aren't sure. We are waiting.
Helena
30 Sep 2007 22:41:53 PDT

29 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since early this morning, just after midnight, when (we think) the A30s were headed east out of our hydrophone range. A report this afternoon, of a group of orcas (including 2 adult males) heading west past Brown's Bay in eastern Johnstone StraIt makes us think the A30s may be on their way back to our area. We've resumed live streaming, though there is still a persistent hum on our system, for which we apologise (we're working on the problem).
Helena & Paul
29 Sep 2007 18:07:20 PDT

28 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

We've heard no more calls overnight & think it's possible that the last calls we heard, around 11:30pm, were from the A30s as they crossed Johnstone Strait towards Weynton Pass, heading "out" on the slack tide. However, there was terrible boat noise in both Johnstone Strait & Blackfish Sound at the time, so we aren't at all sure. It's a beuatiful morning here & the sun is just up... we are waiting.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 07:43:04 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s have suddenly appeared off CP, lovely close calls!
Helena
28 Sep 2007 13:03:42 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The A30s are close to Critical Point, lots of calls & continuous echolocation... sounds like a whole lottafishin' goin' on!
Helena
28 Sep 2007 17:25:53 PDT

Performing maintenance

So sorry, but we're still unable to solve the hum problem. Will try again tomorrow. Meanwhile, the A30s are headed back to the west in Johnstone Strait. They're now probably somewhere around the western boundary of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 20:32:32 PDT

Performing maintenance

We are still in maintenance mode but for the record the A30s are nearing Critical Point in Robson Bight. They have been moving back in this direction very slowly and may have not come furtheer west than east of Kaikash earlier.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 23:48:25 PDT

27 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

We heard no calls overnight.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 08:39:01 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

We're hearing rubbing sounds on the RB hydrophone, along with a few N3 calls... sounds like the A30s are back!
Helena
27 Sep 2007 15:50:16 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Up to the west - Robson Bight!
Helena
27 Sep 2007 16:19:52 PDT

Distant calls audible.

After passing closely to Critical Point, the A30s are carrying on to the west. Lots of unfortunate boat noise.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 17:09:04 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

At the moment it is not clear what the A30s decided to do. Calls dropped off a while ago when they were still possibly west of Cracroft Point. Lovely full moon tonight opposite the Lab.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 20:00:45 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We began hearing distant calls from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. Sounds like they are in western Johnstone Strait, possibly heading east. Persistent boat noise is present in the Strait also.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 23:26:40 PDT

26 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Superb sounds!!

The A30s are back in Robson Bight.
Helena
26 Sep 2007 02:11:05 PDT

No orcas present.

A group of orcas is currently travelling east opposite the Eve River (east of the Ecological Reserve).
Helena
26 Sep 2007 09:33:26 PDT

No orcas present.

The group east of the Reserve was indeed the A30s At 12:30pm, they were continuing east from Hickey Point. Also today, there is a moderate sized group of Pacific Whitesided dolphins in Johnstone Strait and a lone elephat seal was spotted off Donegal Head this morning by the Gikumi (Stubbs Island).
Helena
26 Sep 2007 14:14:03 PDT

No orcas present.

The A30s turned back to the west around 1pm (Naiad Explorer report) but we have yet to hear them come back into our area. It's possible they turned back to the east again, or have just been making their way slowly to the west. As is often the case, we are waiting.
Helena
26 Sep 2007 22:49:06 PDT

25 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

The A30s are again calling in the area between Robson Bight and Cracroft Point.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 00:48:31 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

It seems likely that the A30s have headed north through Blackney Pass on the beginning of the ebbing tide, and are now in Blackfish Sound. They are silent for the moment.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 04:20:05 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s are travelling back south through Blackney Pass. They are silent so far.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 11:14:42 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s seem to be moving on towards Robson Bight now.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 12:08:47 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The A30s have reached Robson Bight & are now approaching Critical Point. Lovely calls, & echolocation too... sounds like at least some of them are having a bite in the Bight!
Helena
25 Sep 2007 13:48:58 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s are in the midst of what sounds like a great rub.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 14:26:36 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The a30s are on their way back to the west opposite the Ecological Reserve. Earlier, they had gone east from the rubbing beaches.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 18:52:36 PDT

Performing maintenance

Our live stream has been down for a few hours, owing to a power failure. Please accept our apologies.
Helena & Paul
25 Sep 2007 19:49:54 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The latest theory is that the A30s continued to the west. They hesitated when they got to Little Kaikash and could be heard turning first, back to the east, and then soon after back to the west. This movement coincided with their burst of calls. Since then only their fading blows were heard to the west. The tide will continue to ebb until 1:30am.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 22:25:22 PDT

24 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

Once again, we heard no calls overnight & have heard no reports about orcas nearby. We are waiting.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 07:02:28 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Good News! The A30s are on their way back into the area. Currently they are north of Donegal Head in Queen Charlotte Strait but they are eastbound.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 13:18:14 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s are still in the same area north of Bold head and still just out of range of our system. They are calling (according to the whale watch boats with them ) as they are go back and forth. So perhaps soon...
Helena
24 Sep 2007 15:49:28 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Just a few calls so far, in Blackfish Sound, but the A30s finally came into range, if only briefly.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 18:21:58 PDT

Distant calls audible.

A30s still chatty in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 19:56:57 PDT

Orcas near mics.

These lovely A30 calls are from the Parson Island station. The A30s must have travelled through behind the 2nd tug to travel Blackney to Johnstone Strait. Sounds like the whales are on their way to the Strait.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 21:47:25 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The A30s have made it to Johnstone Strait and are moving toward Cracroft Point.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 21:56:04 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s continue into Johnstone Strait. There is still a lot of boat noise from the tugs unfortunately.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 22:08:21 PDT

23 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

Recently there has been a fairly vocal group of dolphins close to Robson Bight. To the west the A30s were offfshore of Malcolm Island travelling toward the Mainland. The A36s were off Pine Island and another group of whales were westbound toward Goletas Channel.
Helena
23 Sep 2007 21:54:19 PDT

22 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

Ah hah! The A30s are not to the east. We heard from the Naiad Explorer that the A30s are with the A36s off Doyle Island (near Port Hardy) foraging. Nice to know.
Helena
22 Sep 2007 12:00:41 PDT

21 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

So far we are not aware of any news about the A30s. We did not hear any calls overnight - not even dolphins. Very rainy and wet this morning.
Helena
21 Sep 2007 09:07:07 PDT

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls at all today - sounds like the A30s have had a day off!
Helena
21 Sep 2007 22:31:55 PDT

20 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

Just after 7am we began to hear echo locarion and calls on the Critical Point system. It sounds like the A30s may have arrived back from the east.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 07:14:42 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s are moving up the middle of the Strait toward the CP area.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 09:09:07 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

The A30s have travelled through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. They were altogether until White Beach Pas. From then on, they were spread out as they continued north. Just a few calls and now some echo location.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 13:12:57 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s have travelled through Weynton Pass toward Johnstone Strait. Meanwhile T14 was seen heading east from the Nimpkish River toward Johnstone Strait. This possible "confict" of interests was solved by T14 ducking into Weynton Pass as the A30s entered the Strait. He loks like he might head to Blackfish Sound. This was all done without any calls.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 17:07:58 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

T14 gave us a bit of a surprise. Despite being seen moving through Weynton Pass earlier after passing the A30s on their way to Johnstone Strait through the same passage, he must have doubled back. Tim at CP saw first saw him off the western tip of Hanson Island. From there he moved east to the entrance of Blackney Pass. He then went north into Blackney Pass. Meanwhile, the resting A30s, contiued east against the Vancouver Island shore.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 19:48:10 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s sounded like they were fairly close to Robson Bight and may have alreay passed to the east.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 21:25:35 PDT

19 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

A lovely quiet morning - even the wind has dropped. No reports and we only heard dolphins during the night. The Critical Point system has been fussy and noisy. Hopefully, this can be corrected. No reports about the A30s or the G25s.
Helena
19 Sep 2007 09:32:56 PDT

No orcas present.

More transient activity today. Earlier this morning, two groups were spotted travelling toward each other in the Retreat Pass area (off of Queen Charlotte Strait). One group of three came into Arrow Pass and met up with the group of four near the Fox islands. The whales then turned and have headed back through Arrow Pass. They are currently just at the mouth of Arrow. The group of dolphins we heard earlier west of Critical Point continued west and out Weynton Pass. They moved toward Mitchell Bay where they have stalled in company with a minke whale whose feeding has excited lots of birds. The A30s were again reported in Nodales Channel. No word on the G25s - have they left the area? Also, jim Borrowman saw 45 Sandhill Cranes fly overhead on his way to watch the transients.
Helena
19 Sep 2007 13:58:35 PDT

18 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

After the excitment of the transients in Blackney Pass (the T55s) early this morning we had to be content to follow their progress (or lack of it) for the rest of the day. For several hours this group moved back and forth off Stubbs Island in Weynton Passage. The A30s, meanwhile, were found in Nodales Channel (eastern Johnstone Strait). 100 dolphins, Dalls porpoise, sea lions, seals, myriad birds and humpbacks filled up the rest of the day.
Helena
18 Sep 2007 23:41:35 PDT

17 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No calls but orcas nearby

It did turn out to be part of the G17s - the G25s - they stalled mid strait off of CP and then came into Blackney Pass (part way) and then turned back toward Johnstone Strait. A group has also been seen further east off the Broken Islands. It may be the A30s although we last saw them heading into Blackfish Sound around 8pm. Recently, nothing would surprise us about the A30s travelling quietly around the area.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 11:09:15 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s have arrived back at the east end of the Reserve (from the east). Meanwhile, we had a group of transients which included T68 & T68A - thanks to Jackie & Stubbs Island for the IDs) - head south through Blackney Pass to Cracroft Point. Just as the rub started the transients turned and began to head west.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 16:54:57 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s have come west from the beaches. Meanwhile, the G25s turned up unexpectedly and briefly off CP. They must have come through Blackney Pass. They have been quite scattered and elusive all day but hopefully they now have connected with the A30s. They did seem to be "searching" ealier. No further word on the transients who were recently in Johnstone Strait as well.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 18:59:01 PDT

No orcas present.

If you are wondering what happened...you are not alone. The A30s and the G25s disappeared and we imagine that they went off to the east. However, there were no calls to support this or any other theory. The transients may have turned up once again off the entrance to Blackney, after a trip to the west, around 7:30pm. At least, there was a group of 6 that showed up there. From there, this group, went east along Cracroft Island. By 8pm, they were off the Sophia Islands.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 20:56:55 PDT

16 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

The A30s were found off of Stimpson Reef (opposite the Adam River) earlier this morning. They have been milling and resting. No word yet on any groups further west. A lovely humpback surprised us this morning. Swimming with sealions the whale came very close into shore in front of our bay. Quite dramatic. On another note: Sadly we said good-bye to Tomoko, Yumi and Momoko this morning. We would like to thank them for all their hard work, willing hands and cheerful friendship. Safe journey back home!
Helena & Paul
16 Sep 2007 11:38:41 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s, just a short while ago, have returned to the rubbing beaches from the east.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:16:43 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Brief rub on their way west.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:28:04 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s have rounded Critical Point and into Robson Bight on what sounds like a fishing expedition.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:47:06 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s ARE moving westward but very slowly. They are resting off Izumi Rock (west of the western boundary).
Helena
16 Sep 2007 16:32:20 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s crossed the Strait with some enthusiasm toward Cracroft Point.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 17:44:44 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s, just after 7pm, entered Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait. They travelled north through to Blackfish Sound with one foraging stop along the way.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 20:38:25 PDT

15 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls overnight, and don't know what happened to the A30s after we last heard them west of Cracroft Point. We are waiting.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 09:48:53 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

We just began to hear calls and rubs. The A30s must have returned to the east last night and are now making their way back to the west.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 10:05:52 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s have passed through Robson Bight and are about half way from the wstern boundary of the Ecological Reserve to Izumi rock, heading west. For the moment, they are silent.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 12:03:30 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s once again got a s far as Little Kaiakash on the Vancouver Island side and then turned back to the east at 1:30pm. A38 had ventured toward CP as his group was moving west but soon crossed over to them just ahead of the turn.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 13:36:49 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are back close to Critical Point. Maybe they are thinking about an afternoon rub? Also, we have heard that the A36s have been seen closer to Pine Island in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 15:43:35 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Some serious fishing first!
Helena
15 Sep 2007 15:52:53 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Sounds like the A30s are having a nice afternoon rub!
Helena
15 Sep 2007 16:19:31 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Back and forth! The A30s are oposite Robson Bight once again. Rumours have it that there is now a large group of whales near Pine Island. hmmmmmmm......
Helena
15 Sep 2007 18:01:16 PDT

14 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

We have been listening to the A30s arrive back in Johnstone Strait sfter their trip to the inlets.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 05:57:20 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Slowly.... moving on toward the Reserve.We first heard A30 calls just after 4am. The morning is again foggy.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 06:57:21 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s have reached the rubbung beaches.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 08:48:26 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are back to the area off Robson Bight heading west. Meanwhile, a small group of transients have come out of Queen Charlotte Strait and are headed toward the Plumpers at the western end of Hanson Island.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 10:12:30 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s have turned back to the east again & are just inside the western boundary of the Ecological Reserve. For the moment, they are silent.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 13:37:03 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are in Robson Bight. close to Critical Point.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 14:23:12 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s are back at the rubing beaches. It's their 2nd session today.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 14:55:45 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

Back to the Bight!
Helena
14 Sep 2007 15:37:47 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We've been hearing occasional distant calls from the A30s, on the Critical Point hydrophone, as they made their way to the west from Robson Bight on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, foraging along the way. They were last sighted just before dark (from CP) off Blinhorn, spread out off Vancouver Island. It's possible they will turn around soon & head back east, or they could head "out" on the swiftly ebbing tide.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 20:27:34 PDT

Boat noise

The night was quiet after the A30s crossed Blackfish Sound toward Queen Charlotte Strait. Very foggy again this morning.
Helena
13 Sep 2007 07:41:20 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

So far there have not been any visual sightings ,although, calls were heard, in the fog, in Queen Charlotte Strait. Blackney andJohnstone Strait are both clear now.
Helena
13 Sep 2007 12:11:40 PDT

No orcas present.

The A30s did a surprise move today by heading into Fife Sound and on to Tribune Channel (part of the knight Inlet system). They dod not go this route very often but it was a lovely day and maybe the inlets seemed like a good choice!
Helena
13 Sep 2007 19:17:04 PDT

12 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

We heard no calls overnight & don't know what happened to the A30s after we lost track of them early yesterday evening.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 08:14:47 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s, who had headed east in Johnstone Strait last night, are returning to the west. They are now on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, past Naka Creek, and approaching the eastern boundary of the Reserve. One of the males, A38 or A39, is mid-strait. It's possible that the A30s will head into the rubbing beaches soon. (Report from Naiad Explorer).
Helena
12 Sep 2007 14:38:44 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We're hearing close calls & echolocation from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Some of them (just a few) had a brief rub on their way west. Boat noise is persistent in the background.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 15:45:22 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s, all together, are off Kaikash Creek heading west.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 17:37:07 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s have turned back to he east but whether or not they come all the way is still uncertain. They are calling quite frequently.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 21:01:34 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s went out via Weynton Pass. They are now in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 21:32:01 PDT

11 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

At 3:15am this morning the A30s were back at the rubbing beaches and then later near Critical Point. It seemed like the A30s did not go any further. The last we heard was at 5am. Our last impression was that they had turned around and moved back eastward.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 08:21:42 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

We heard a few distant calls from the A30s about half an hour ago, when they were in the fog at the "top" of Blackfish Sound. It seems they headed "out" on the ebbing tide early this morning, though we're not sure of their route, & are now headed back into the Strait via Weynton Pass.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 11:45:00 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We're now hearing distant calls from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Sounds like they have made it into the Strait (via Weynton Pass) and are headed east.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 12:00:56 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Moving on - the A30s have travelled east along Vancouver Island toward the Ecological Reserve. Back off Kaikash and the entrance of Blackney Pass A39 looked like he would travel over to CP. Instead he crossedto the others who were approaching Kaikash. It was from there that the group continued east together.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 14:35:04 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s have reached the rubbing beaches!
Helena
11 Sep 2007 15:34:32 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

a little rub and now a bite to eat in the Bight!
Helena
11 Sep 2007 16:22:47 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Again the A30s are proving a bit elusive. They have grown very quiet and visually CP lost track of them near Kaikash.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 19:37:59 PDT

10 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

The fog is lifting in very pretty patterns. The a30s have been located near the Broken Islands (east of West cracroft Island) heading west.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 11:06:15 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We're hearing close calls & echolocation from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Over the past few hours, they made their way to the west, mostly on the Cracroft Island side of the Strait, then they crossed over to the Vancouver Island side & are now in Robson Bight, headed back east again.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 17:58:38 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s are rubbing!
Helena
10 Sep 2007 18:34:54 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s finished their evening rub and headed off to the east.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 19:18:58 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

A few more calls and then some major Blackney Pass distractions. Three humpbacks surrounded by dolphins and a few sealions are headed north "together".
Helena
10 Sep 2007 19:59:03 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Back from the beaches!
Helena
10 Sep 2007 20:21:26 PDT

09 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

No calls but orcas nearby

A group of transients (yet to be identified) are off Izumi Rock (west of the Reserve). A group of dolphins is not too far away, off of the Sophias. The A30s are most likely off the Broken Island.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 10:53:26 PDT

No orcas present.

The transients turned out to be the T46 group once again. They went up to Weynton Pass and had a bite to eat (seal) and carried on. The A30s at 3pm were back off the Broken Island group. Meanwhile, sealions, humpbacks and myriad birds have kept us busy for the afternoon.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 17:09:17 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

? the A30s rubbing.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 17:53:39 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are off Critical Point after the beaches. Very nice echo location!
Helena
09 Sep 2007 18:16:33 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Not really sure what happened to the A30s. They were laast seen east of Kaikash around 6:45pm. They were still westbound on the ebb tide.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 21:00:31 PDT

07 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Orcas hunting fish.

Someone has come back from the east and has just rounded Critical Point!
Helena
07 Sep 2007 08:10:15 PDT

Orcas near mics.

It is A1s and dolphins too.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 08:24:59 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

It is the A30s. Yesterday evening they were westbound off Chatham Point (the most eastern corner of Johnstone Strait) at 6pm. That is quite a hike!
Helena
07 Sep 2007 09:14:04 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s moved up to Cracroft Point, where after a short rest, they have begun to vocalise.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 10:46:09 PDT

Distant calls audible.

After turning to the east off of Hanson Island's Turn Point at 1:18pm, the A30s went back to the Cracroft Point area to continue their forage.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 15:09:48 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Just when you feel the day is slow and easy... just one group in the area, busy feeding,relaxed.... when, surprise! Offshores coming from the west. The A30s are getting closer to Critical Point.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 16:21:53 PDT

05 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

Groups are streaming off to the west: First the Rs (they stayed on the Johnstone Strait side going west) and then the A36s with the I15s (who just went north in Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound). An I31 and/ or I11 group is currently approaching the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Johnstone Strait side. All this and a touch of northeern lights too. We have not heard any A4,A5, A12 or A30 calls yet.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 02:39:11 PDT

03 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Superb sounds!!

The A36s, A4s, A5s and the I15s met up the A30s when they entered the strait. All the whales headed east to the Bight, sounds like having nice time in there.
Tomoko
03 Sep 2007 00:46:16 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

After the Rs came into the Strait the groups who had preceded became vocal and began to move eastward. We are now listening to the A12s, I11s, A36s, I15s, I31s and Rs. Quite the gang. To the east should still be the A30s, A4sand A5s.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 16:49:53 PDT

01 September 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

We are hearing A1 calls once more on Critical Point. A while before they were passing the rubbing beaches headed west.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 09:23:51 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The A30s just rounded the corner at Critical Point. Sounds like they are not alone. The beginning of the parade?
Helena
01 Sep 2007 09:29:36 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I15s are very close to Cracroft Point, the A4s sound like they are over closer to Vancouver Island. We have also heard A30s, A36s and A5s.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 10:24:13 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Well the whales went west, and then turned at the top end of Hanson Island, and then they went all the way back, past Critical Point and then down to the rubbing beaches where an A1 group is now rubbing.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 13:59:41 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Back and forth. Since the last poste the whales have turned at least once. At 2:20pm they were all opposite the Cliff moving east. The A30s went down for the rub and 20 minutes later they were all headed back to the west. The progress was not speedy but by 4:40pm the I15s were west of Kaikash, the A24s opposite Kaikash, the rest of the A4s and A5s were going alobg the Hanson shore and the A30s up to the western boundary. Whew!
Helena
01 Sep 2007 17:54:49 PDT

Distant calls audible.

For the last while the whales, true to form, are now going east again.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 19:06:54 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The A30s peeled away and came north through Blackney Pass just before dark. The others are nearing Robson Bight.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 20:51:10 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The eastbound groups, the I15s,the A36s, A5s and A4s are on their way out of the Reserve. Nothing further was heard from the A30s who continued west to Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 22:36:41 PDT

31 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

Where to start? The A30s are currently travelling north through Blackney Pass. Someone is at the beaches rubbing and recently there was distant A5 calls on Critical Point. Earlier the A30s were with the A4s, A5s and A12s off Robson Bight before scattering in different directions east and west.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 01:08:14 PDT

No orcas present.

We last heard distant "resting" calls from the A30s on the Flower island hydrophone around 3am & have heard nothing since. We think the A30s probably continued to the north on the ebbing tide, though we're not sure.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 08:41:56 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Just after starting a recording because the A30s were reported off of Bold Head in Blackfish Sound, we began hearing A5 calls in Johnstone Strait. We suspect this might be the start of the A12, A4, A5 parade from the east.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 10:42:43 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Time to catch up. The A30s came through Blackney Pass. They cleared CP around 1:55pm and after a slight pause they continued east crossing in the direction of the Reserve. The A23s and the A25s, meanwhile, had gone west, crossed to the entrance of Blackney Pass and then headed west tight to the Hanson shore. At 1pm they turned and crossed right over to the Vancouver Island side and headed east. Around 2pm they would have been off Kaikash Creek following the A30s to the east. Nice timing. meanwhile, the A11s are on their way west not far from the eastern end of the Reserve.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 14:33:23 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Sounds like the A11s went in for a rub while the A30s and A5s wait a little further west.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 15:27:07 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Thanks to Marie on the Cliff we know that the A24s, A11s (all) came from the east. The A30s and the A23s/25s (who had turned first at 4pm) are now moving west. There are groups on both sides of the Strait in the Sophia Island area.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 16:45:54 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

So the A30s, A25s,A23s and all the A4 went west up to the "top" end of Hanson I. ,turned around and now are back off the entrance to Blackney Pass and Cracroft Point. The tide isebbing now and as earlier the whales are working against the current.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 19:25:17 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Guess who is back? As the A30s and Co disappeared to the east the I15s are arriving in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 23:48:41 PDT

30 August 2007, Orcalab reports

No orcas present.

Good morning. We've heard no calls since just after midnight, when we think the A30s were passing the rubbing beaches, heading east. This means that all the A, G, & R clan groups here yesterday are probably still somewhere to the east of us.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 05:50:41 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I15s are now close to the CrPt hydrophone. We're also hearing distant "A" calls.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 07:58:05 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The orcas, the I31s, I15s, A30s and A36s are moving westward through a maze of 300 dolphins ,who are spread out from CP to the Reserve and across the Strait. You can hear the dolphins in behind the orca calls. Most of the whales are coming up to the CP area but there are at least two lingering groups, one off Izumi and one off the rubbing beaches. Are the rest of yesterday's groups coming up from "below"?
Helena
30 Aug 2007 09:37:00 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Interesting day - aren't they all? The A36s, I15s and I31s may be thinking about catching the ebb through Weynton Pass. This decision happened after a few calls from the A36s. The A30s are still in the Strait probably in seperate groupings. A38/39 are closer to the BIght.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 10:54:02 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are certainly holding down the middle. The A36s, I15s and I31s did go out Weynton and the A30s moved toward the CP area just ahead of the Rs coming up from the east along the Vancouver Island shore. Nick Templeman reports that at 11am the A12s, A4s and A5s were also westbound (isn't everyone?) off Kelsey Bay.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 11:42:59 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The Rs, following the A30s, are travelling west past the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 12:58:38 PDT

Orcas near mics.

As the A30s head back eastward (past Kaikash), the Rs (R5s,R17s,R2s and possibly R7s) are carrying on to the west through Pearse Passage. The others, the A36s, I15s and I31s are still westbound in Queen Charlotte Strait. The tide however, is in full flood and it is a big one. Only the A30s are going with the tide.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 15:01:59 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s have begun heading back to the east from CP, possibly to meet up with several groups of orcas coming west. They include at least some of the A4s, A5s, & A12s, who were reported to be heading west from Kelsey Bay around 11am today.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 16:08:51 PDT

Boat noise

Boy this was quick, The A12s,A5s and almost all of the A4s (only the small A11 group has not been accounted for so far) moved quickly to the west. The A30s doubled backed while the groups came "in" but now may also be westbound.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 17:50:56 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Bight Party: A30s, A4s,A5s,?A12s
Helena
30 Aug 2007 20:43:32 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The Bight party continues!
Helena
30 Aug 2007 21:26:57 PDT

29 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

The A30s and the I31s are back from the east, now off CP.
Tomoko
29 Aug 2007 03:43:24 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We're listening to the A30s, I15s, & at least some of the I31s as they head north through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Earlier, just before midnight, we began hearing them as they returned from the east. Their westward progress was slow as they made their way to the west, and they are still traveling slowly, against the last of the flooding tide. The A30s are ahead, now in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 05:18:38 PDT

Boat noise

The I15s,A30s and I31 have moved on from Blackfish Sound to the west. The tide is against them (since 5am) and their exit was slow.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 07:01:00 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We've begun hearing distant "R" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. The R5s & R17s have just entered Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. Behind them, still in Weynton Pass, are the I15s, A30s & possibly others. Earlier, around 10:30am, the various groups met up with each other on the north side of Malcolm Island. They've been traveling together towards Johnstone Strait since then. Sounds like a busy day ahead!
Helena
29 Aug 2007 13:43:16 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The lovely R5s,R17s R2s and perhaps the R7s once again have returned after being met in Queen Charlotte Strait by the A30s, I15s and I31s. Together, as reported, they all went through Weynton Pass while a very large group of dolphins, who had also come out of Queen Charlotte Strait, zipped into Blackney Pass. The orca groups are now well into Johnstone Strait, passing CP.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 14:57:07 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The Rs went east quickly, barely touching in at the main rubbing beach as they continued on. The I31s (all), the I15s and the A30s took a while longer to get to the Bight. The I31s have moved on eastward, the I15s are following and the A30s are still off the Bight after pausing off CP earlier. We had a very large group of dolphins in Blackney Pass obviously foraging. Exciting BUT the behaviour of several boats around the excitable dolphins was disappointing and just darn right rude at times. Just now, a rub hasstarted.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 17:39:44 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Sounds like the A30s also ventured briefly down to the beaches but they have just returned to Robson Bight.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 19:24:29 PDT

Distant calls audible.

It sounds like the A30s have moved back to the west, as we're hearing their calls on the Cracroft Point hydrophone. We don't know where the other groups are, but they probably continued to the east after their late afternoon session at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 21:21:46 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s have returned to Robson Bight!
Helena
29 Aug 2007 22:33:39 PDT

28 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

Multiple pod calls audible.

So much for going east! - Not quite yet it seems. The whales have been stalled in the same general area since the last posting, with someone only lightly touching in at the rubbing beaches. The tide is now in full flood and this may help them decide. Today, we heard from Nick Templeman that the A11s, A35s and A73 were with the A30s near Nodales Channel, perhaps another incentive.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 00:20:40 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Add I15, A1 and A4 calls to the list of whales up to Robson Bight.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:08:02 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It is really sounding like the whole gang is back, A30s, A36s, A12s, A4s,A5s,I15s, and I33s. Still moving west.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:54:46 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Actually these groups are spread from Telegraph Cove back to west of the Reserve.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:59:58 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The whales are not far off the entrance to Blackney Pass and CP area. Recently, A4s were the loudest. It is only 1/2 hour to the slack tide and then the tide will ebb. Will this be enough to encourage them all out via Blackney? Or will the stay Strait sid?
Helena
28 Aug 2007 17:04:14 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Definitely stayed Strait side.The calls were distant for so long we began to wonder if they were headed back to the west. Fortunately, calls got louder and we now believe the whales (the A12s,A30s,A4s.A5s,I15s,A36s have been heard) are headed to the Robson Bight area.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 18:43:10 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Getting even closer to Critical Point. The I31s need to be added to the list. No one left, the A36s came in. The wind has dropped (quite windy today),however, the rain continues.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 19:04:54 PDT

No orcas present.

And east they all went! - some 12 hours after arriving back from the east this morning.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 21:48:05 PDT

25 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

After a wonderful vocal time together in Robson Bight, and a session at the rubbing beaches, the orcas (I31s A30s) have (probably) continued on to the east in Johnstone Strait. We are waiting.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 01:51:45 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

We're listening to echolocation near the Critical Point hydrophone. It's possibly from the A30s, though we're not sure. It's a very foggy morning here.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 10:23:03 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The I15s and the I31s most likely left Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. The A30s most likely did not accompany them that far but returned to the Robson Bight area. They may be the group that has been sighted near Izumi Rock westbound. The description fits although we have not had any call that might confirm this information.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 12:14:02 PDT

Orcas near mics.

A38 and A39 passed offshore of CP headed west as the rest of the group continued west along Vancouver Island.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 13:28:51 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We're listening to the A30s as they approach Robson Bight. The A36s are in the far distance, traveling with several G clan groups (I15s, I31s, maybe others) who came into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass around 2:30pm & are now headed east.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 16:13:32 PDT

Boat noise

After a rub, the A30s are on the way back to the west again. We're hearing them on the Critical Point hydrophone, unfortunately with lots of boat noise. The other groups are still eastbound on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, now past Kaikash.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 18:13:52 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We've been listening to the I15s & I31s close to Critical Point, with an A1 group also nearby (probably the A36s). Meanwhile, the A30s have gone back to the beaches for another rub.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 19:16:21 PDT

Boat noise

Back to boat noise. We think all the orcas have headed east, out of the range of our hydrophones. We are waiting.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 21:10:23 PDT

24 August, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

A short while ago we began to hear A4 calls (possibly the A24s) and then A30s off of the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 05:49:57 PDT


Multiple pod calls audible.

This is shaping up to be a very interesting morning. The groups in the Strait, the A36s, I15s, I33s have moved into the entrance to Blackney Pass while part of the R7s and R2s and the A24s finished travelling south through Blackney Pass and "met" up with them. A52 and her calf are aslso just about through Blackney Pass while a larger group, the rest of the Rs, A4s and A30s are still in Blackfish Sound. The tide is turning to flood.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 08:48:12 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Crazy busy. After the meeting off the entrance to Blackney Pass the A36s came into Blackney Pass and headed north. A52 and her calf followed part way through the Pass but turned south again after getting half way. As the a36s disappeared into Blackfish a mixed group with A73, R13 and her calf, the rest of the A35s and A56 travelled south through Blackney. Eventually, A13 and A11 followed. We can still hear the A30s and the A36s on Flower Island occassionally. The I15s,A5s, I33s, A24s and the R2s and R7 all went back to the east afte their meeting off of the Blackney entrance.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 10:12:30 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

We've been listening to the I15s & A4s at the rubbing beaches for the past while. Meanwhile, the A30s have moved to the north of Blackfish Sound & the A36s are following behind.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 12:22:37 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The day just gets busier. A group of transient (T46s +) who were first seen about an hour ago in Weynton Pass have turned up off cracroft Point heading east. Meanwhile, it appears that the A30s have picked up the rest of the I31s and are headed back east in Queen Charlotte Strait. The A36s never went as far as the A30s in Queen Charlotte Strait have been in range from time to time. And finally (?) the A12s who must have gone east and not followed the big group out to the west two nights ago, are on their way west in Johnstone Strait and have past the Eve River.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 13:39:19 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s & remainder of the I31s (everyone except the I33s) have just traveled south through Blackney Pass, mixed up & spread out, & are now entering Johnstone Strait. Lovely sounds, too bad there's so much boat noise.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 16:05:07 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

As you may have guessed, the I31s and the A30s have moved on to the rubbing beaches. I31 calls at the moment. We are also still hearing the A36s at the western end of Hanson Island.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 18:46:13 PDT

Orcas near mics.

After finishing at the beaches the I31s (first) and the A30s (second) have come west to Robson Bight.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 19:26:56 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Lovely resting calls from the I31s between more energetic bouts from both the A30s and I31s. It sounds like they are moving back in toward Robson Bight. The A36s were last heard in Blackfish Sound a while ago.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 22:55:54 PDT

23 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

All the groups headed north through Blackney Pass a short while ago. We're hearing occasional distant calls from some of them on the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 02:02:01 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We're still hearing most of the groups calling occasionaly on the Flower Island Hydrophone, so they are still in or near Blackfish Sound.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 04:29:23 PDT

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since just before 5am & think that the various A & G clan groups we were listening to in Backfish Sound earlier this morning have (probably) moved on to the north. We are waiting.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 07:09:43 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

There are three threads we are following this morning. First, a group of transients showed up this morning in Blackfish Sound and continued west into Queen Charlotte Strait. Second, we heard A5 calls back in Johnstone Strait fairly close to Critical Point. This group went off to the beaches. There may be another group on the Cracroft side. Third, the majority of the group that went out this morning at 5am is off Malcolm Point in Queen Charlotte Strait. They were still going west when fisrt seen this morning but have since turned around and are moving back to the east.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 11:35:01 PDT

No orcas present.

Nice to be in the middle again. The A5s continued east this afternoon and no word, as of now, that they have turned. The BIG group in Queen Charlotte Strait is still eastbound but very slowly and are currently in the area east of Black Bluff
Helena
23 Aug 2007 15:46:52 PDT

Boat noise

The A5s are back and heading west along Cracroft Island opposite Robson Bight. The I15s, I33s, A30s and possibly the A24s are off Lizard Point slowly eastbound and closer to Port Hardy, the R2s & R7s have been picked up by the A11s. They have stalled there for the moment.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 17:10:38 PDT

22 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

Distant calls audible.

We began hearing distant G clan calls on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. We're not yet sure which group, or where they are. Hopefully, the A30s have continued to the east.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 00:43:18 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The calls are closer to the Critical Point hydrphone now. Sounds like both A & G clan orcas are there, probably the I15s, I33s & A30s. The danger probably isn't as great as it was last night, but we'd still rather the whales were elsewhere.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 00:51:17 PDT

Superb sounds!!

It sounds like the A5s & A4s are in Robson Bight as well as the A30s, I15s & I33s. Quite a party, just wish it was happening elsewhere.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 02:39:24 PDT

Boat noise

Sigh. A very beautiful morning with low fog and calm seas. Earlier this morning, the A4s and A5s joined the I15s, I33s and the A30s, before 1am, in the area off Robson Bight. The whales stalled until about 3:15am when their calls grew quickly fainter. They may have shifted toward the Cracroft Island shore before moving back eastward in the short term. Calls ended by 4:30am.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 06:34:54 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We are once again hearing A1 calls approaching Robson Bight.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 07:19:59 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

In addition to the A1 calls (?A12s) we are hearing A4s as well. The whales are westbound once again, not quite up to the area opposite Blackney Pass.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 09:17:45 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s are there as well.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 09:30:49 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It is starting to sound like everyone is beginning to file back from the east.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 09:33:09 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The various groups have all turned (I15s off CP, others off Big Bay) and are headed back to the east again.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 10:58:10 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

As the "groups" (the A30s, A4s, A5s, I15s, I33s, A12s) continued eastward in Johnstone Strait we began to hear not only the A36s in Blackfish Sound BUT also R clan calls! Never rains but pours.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 19:28:39 PDT


Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Whales are back at the beaches. However, others (A11s,A5s,A30s) are very vocal on Critical Point.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 20:19:33 PDT


Multiple pod calls audible.

A lot of back and forth.! The calls had faded off after the last rub, and for a while, it seemed the whales may have gone east. But they ( A30s, A4s and A5s so far) have returned west and at the moment not far from Critical Point. Today, the whales were in mixed groups for a good portion of the day. It was a very hot day which probably furthered evaporation of the spill. There was still some slick around the eastern end of Hanson Island. But it was a very thin, although greasy layer, by the afternoon. Apparently, no damaged birds have been found and there does not appear to be any more fuel coming from the scene of the accident. Clean-up crews are still at work and DFO scientists are monitoring the whales.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 23:28:36 PDT

21 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

Orcas near mics.

The I15s are opposite CP and moving on toward the entrance to Blackney Pass. The I33s are nearby. The other groups, the A4s and A5s seem like they are further offshore of Cracroft, passing the entrance to Blackney Pass. The A30s are not far ahead.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 00:18:49 PDT

Orcas near mics.

After getting to the entrance of Blackney, and after a few (perhaps some of the I15s) even ventured in to the Pass, the groups have turned around and are now re-approaching the Reserve.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 01:14:22 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A4s, A5s, I33s, I15s and the A30s seem to have moved eastward from Robson Bight since 3am. We are hearing a few distant calls on the rubbing beach system.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 03:32:58 PDT

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since around 3:30am & think the various groups continued to the east. We won't mind at all if they stay there for a while!
Helena
21 Aug 2007 07:57:21 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

"As" are back at the beaches!
Helena
21 Aug 2007 08:37:17 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s came into Robson Bight and then continued west. The warden boat is monitoring the whales closely. The slick was still present in the Bight and the whales unfortunately surfaced in the thick of it. They seem to behaving "normally", foraging and travelling slowly. They are rather quiet. CP now reports that the A30s are crossing the Strait toward Cracroft. This is good news as the slick seems to be concentrated on the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 10:46:31 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I33s and most likely soon the I15s have arrived back in the area adjacent to the Ecological Reserve. The A30s turned when between Little Kaikash and Blinkhorn and are headed to the entrance of Blackney Pass where they have stopped to forage. A bit of a surprise, the A12s are reported to be east bound at Camp Point (as of 12pm) travelling with the A35s and the A24s. Other groups were also headed east headed toward Camp Point. This means that the A12s got back to the Strait sometime last night, possibly when the other groups were so excited when off the entrance of Blackney Pass. We never heard A12 calls so their entrance was a quiet one.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 12:50:12 PDT

Distant calls audible.

As the I33s and the I15s continue west from the Sophia Islands, the A30s have slipped through Blackney Pass headed for Blackfish Sound.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 13:30:37 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The I15s and the I33s crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass and are continuing west along the Hanson Island shore. Part of the slick has touched shore along the Johnstone Strait side of Hanson Island and these two groups just swam through a lot of it. Further east, headed for Chatham Point, are the surprising A12s, A4s (all) & A5s (all). The sun is out now and although the last of the afternoon burst, the temperature on the water will apparently help evaporate some of the spilled fuel. Fingers still crossed.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 14:41:11 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The I15s are at the rubbing beaches and the I33s are probably not far behind. We are also, and have been hearing A1 calls in Johnstone Strait. This was occuring while the A30s were in Blackfish Sound. With the A12s reported to the far east we are left wondering what is happening. Stay tuned, hopefully it will become clearer.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 18:42:45 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s are travelling back toward Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. The I15s and ? the I33s continued east from the beaches.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 19:55:32 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are near to the Robson Bight area after travelling past CP to the east.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 21:45:41 PDT

20 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

Superb sounds!!

A30s are very vocal, they are in the bight, sounds very excited for something! The I15s are off BP. We haven't heard I33s for a while but maybe they are with the I15s.
Tomoko
20 Aug 2007 00:53:57 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The I15s (and maybe I33s) went north through Blackney Pass. When they got into Blackfish sound, we heard A1 calls with them. Did the A12s come down to pick them up? The A30s are still somewhere near the bight.
Tomoko
20 Aug 2007 02:46:57 PDT

No orcas present.

It was a busy night! After the I15s,A30s, and I33s arrived in Robson Bight and did all that beautiful calling, they stalled off the Ecological Reserve for a while. In the end, the I15s and the I33s peeled away from the A30s and headed to the entrance of Blackney Pass around 12:30am. The I15s and the I33s travelled through Blackney Pass to the north, (they cleared Blackney Pass by 1:30am) leaving the A30s heading further east in the Strait. The last I15/I33 in Blackfish Sound calls were at 2:07am. We also heard a few distant surprise A1 calls in Blackfish Sound. There had beena few A12 like calls in the Strait earlier and we will review these and the A1 calls in Blackfish Sound to see if any of the A12s came back "up" the Strait and out with the I15s/I33s. If so, perhaps that was what all the waiitng off the Reserve was about between 12 and 1 am. The last A30 calls were at 3:13am.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 07:32:58 PDT


Multiple pod calls audible.

Busy, reports are coming in that there are westbound whales as well as the groups returning and heading east. Possibly, the various A groups (some or even all?) have come up from the east. The scene will get a bit clearer in a while when there is visual information. We are hampered by the constant boat noise. We are hearing As as well as the G clan calls. Exciting!
Helena
20 Aug 2007 09:10:55 PDT


Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

We just began to hear calls and a rub at the main beach. It sounds like it might be the A30s so far.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 21:01:21 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We've begun hearing the calls of the A30s, & echolocation, on the Critical Point hydrophone. Sounds like the A30s are foraging in Robson Bight. Normally, we would be glad, but tonight we are afraid for them.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 21:18:49 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We are now hearing A4 calls off the main rubbing beach. They must be following the A30s west.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:06:43 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s continue to lead the other groups to the west. We have been able to hear them approach the area in range of CP and the entrance to Blackney Pass for the last while. The others are spread "back" to the Reserve.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 23:29:16 PDT

19 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

No orcas present.

Good Morning. We believe the groups continued east after passing by the Ecological Reserve last night around 11pm.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 08:18:32 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

We've heard several reports recently & think that at least some of the groups that headed east in Johnstone Strait last night are in Nodales Channel. It also seems that at least some of them turned back to the west. Within the last hour, we heard a report of a group of orcas heading west quickly at Naka Creek, then orcas were sighted in Robson Bight, possibly the A30s, then we heard I 15 calls on the Critical Point hydrophone, and moments ago we heard rubbing sounds on the RB hydrophone. Seems like we have an interesting day already!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 10:20:54 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The close calls we've been recently have been from the I15s, who were close to Cracroft Point. They are now heading west in Johnstone Strait, past Balckney Pass, with other groups spread out across the Strait to the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 12:11:24 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Around 1:30pm the A30s, I15s and the I33s turned around while near Turn Point (western end of Hanson Island) in Johnstone Strait. They then slowly travelled east to the entrance of Blackney Pass. The A30s became "stuck" off CP for quite a while but they groups may have moved on a bit with the now flooding tide. Currently we are mostly listening to the I33s.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 16:05:20 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The three groups got as far as Critical Point and then turned around. They are now travelling slowly westward, rather as if they are trying to find the energy for another party but can't quite be bothered. Boat noise continues with the constant traffic in Johnstone Strait. Other than that, it is a simply gorgeous day,one that encourages a relaxed, why bother about anything kind of summer day.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 17:25:14 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s, the the I33s and possibly the I15s have moved in the direction of CP.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 19:03:33 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The whales turned yet again and they are all grouped up, on their own after a busy day being the centre of attention, headed back to the Ecological Reserve. Almost there!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 20:46:00 PDT

Superb sounds!!

They made it!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 21:08:26 PDT

18 August 2007, Orcalab reports:

No calls but orcas nearby

As the sleepy whales (the A5s,I15s and I33s) in Jonhstone Strait continue their rest, the A30s and the A11s have been reported heading west toward Kelesey Bay. There is also a group heading east toward Donegal Head, out of Queen Charlotte Strait. No ids as of yet. The tide will flood in about 1/2 hour. The A36s, by the way, are over by Blunden Harbour.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 13:56:17 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

After the boat noise (more cruise ships) was over we began hearing A1 & A4 calls at the rubbing beaches! We're not sure, but the A30s may have returned from their (fast) trip to the east. Possibly, the A4 calls at the beaches are from the A11s. Meanwhile, the I15s, I33s, A5s & A12s are slowly making their way east in the Strait... we're hearing them on the CP & PI hydrophones.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 18:42:46 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Since the last post: The A30s and the A11s (A11,A56, A13 and A73) travelled to the west from the Bight and showed up off CP around 7:40pm. There they joined the BIG group (the I15s, the rest of the A4s, the A5s, the I33s and the newly arrived back A12s) in a BIG mix-up. Eventually, despite the ebbing tide, they all moved over to the Vancouver Island side and continued east. They are approaching Robson Bight right now. Thanks to everyone for all the reports today; Nick for keeping track of the A30s and A11s, Marie on the "Cliff" for keeping track of movements east of CP, Paul Tixier for watching from CP, and the whale watch boats for keeping everyone up-to-date throughout the day. It may be a busy night!
Helena
18 Aug 2007 21:34:25 PDT