No calls but orcas nearby
A fairly busy night until 3am. The last calls of the A30s and A5s were at 2:55am. At that point they were still fairly close to Robson Bight. Then at 5:34am 3 blows were heard going south in Blackney Pass and after a short bout of echolocation which was not sourced. The cruise ships (a parade) will have to clear before we are able to hear clearly.
Helena
10 Aug 2009 06:04:35 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Just talked with Marie, the A30s, A5s and possibly the A24s are grouped together mid strait off hte Western Boundary of the Ecological Reserve heading east. We have not heard them since 3am, a long snooze. Perhaps the A36s and A12 didn't want to wake so they tip-toed out again via Blackney pass !
Helena
10 Aug 2009 09:21:26 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s,A24s,and A5s have been asleep for the entire time, slowly drifting eastward together mid strait until they wee opposite the east end of the Reserve. They are now reported heading west. No sign of the A36s and A12.
Helena
10 Aug 2009 12:36:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s,a24s and A5s are moving quickly after their deep slumber, now between Izumi Rock and Kaikash Creek.
Helena
10 Aug 2009 13:22:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Around 3pm the A30s began to go east when west of Blinkhorn. They stalled there and waited for the rest to catch up. The A24s had gone west to Telegraph Cove, the A5s were opposite Weynton Passage. The whales all gathered together close to Vancouver Island shore. except one of the A30 males, perhaps A39, who elected to remain mid strait. They are now east of Blinkhorn approaching Little Kaikash and travelling fairly quickly.
Helena
10 Aug 2009 16:07:21 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
These crazy good (even if somewhat distorted) calls from the A30s,A5s and A24s are now on the Rubbing beaches. The sad news is that a small sailboat called the "Heron", ignoring all the calls from the Cliff observation post, has been travelling through the Reserve and the whales. A party crasher for sure.
Helena
10 Aug 2009 18:32:58 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and A5s spent some time at the Beaches and we could hear them on that system from 8:30pm to 10:04pm. Very soon after Critical Point picked up the whales as they moved away from the Beaches back to the west. The whales rounded the corner at 10:33pm. It seems as if they are quite spread out. We are still hearing fairly strong A30 calls but calls are now being heard further west as the whales continue to move in that direction.
Helena
10 Aug 2009 23:33:14 PDT
Seasmoke reports
In the afternoon, the orcas who had been further east in the morning had returned rapidly to the west: the A30’s, A5’s and the A24’s. Our first sighting was along the Vancouver Island shoreline west of Kaikash. The pods were spread out, travelling west at a steady rate, foraging as they went. Some pods were also on the Hanson Island side of the Strait just as they had been yesterday afternoon. The A24’s and A23’s foraged near to the Bauza Islets while the A30’s crossed back towards Vancouver Island and with the A8’s and A25’s they stalled west of Blinkhorn waiting for the others to catch up. It was wonderful viewing with multiple spyhopping, tail and pectoral slapping, breaching, porpoising and resting behaviour all being observed. When all of the orcas were close together, they began proceeding rapidly to the east. Heading for home the lighting was beautiful and looking back down Johnstone Strait to the east a Rainbow could be seen.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Superb sounds!!
We've been listening to wonderful calls from A1s, A4s, A5s, on the Critical Point hydrophone. Boat noise is coming now.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 00:18:21 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Right now, lovely A30 calls off Critical Point continue.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 02:37:34 PDT
No orcas present.
There are whales heading back west from the Broken Islands. Earliier this morning, after the last post when the A30s were sitting on top of Critical Point, the A5s came soon after and the scene shifted to the Rubbing Beach system. The rub began at 3am and carried on for a while, then the A4,A30 calls grew increasing distant. It was not absolutely clear what the A5s did after being so close to Critical Point but these groups have enjoyed each other's company so we believe they also went east.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 10:56:03 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After zooming past the Beaches the whales, (the A30s, A24s and A5s) have moved into the area opposite Robson Bight and Boat Bay.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 12:18:14 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A8s were first to go by (under) the Cliff at 1pm. A28, from that group, was swimming back with the A23s (just like last year). The A30s were closer to the Vancouver Island shore with the A24s following. A39 was in the middle. Now, just past Kaikash Creek the A24s are angling out toward the Hanson Island side as the other groups continue westward.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 13:49:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whale groups are stretched from Blinkhorn back to the CP area. The A30s and the A24s travelled up the Vancouver island side. The A24s angled out once they reached Kaiakash Creek. Meanwhil, on the the A8s and A23s progressed past CP and up the Hanson island side. The A25s are the last group passing CP.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 14:44:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A few of the whales turned back to the east and one of the A30 males made it all the way to Izumi Rock (just west of Robson Bight) before turning around to the Northwest. Other groups were still off the Blinkhorn, Telegraph Cove area while this happeened.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 16:06:58 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales are really eastbound now. At 4:45pm, the Lukwas reported that as they headed into Telegraph Cove, there were whales spread from deep inside Beaver Coe (to the west of Telegraph Cove) to the Stephenson Islands in the entrance of Weynton Passage. They were beginning to turn then. An hour later, the whales were off Blinkhorn (east of Telegraph Cove) and still east bound.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 17:59:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Very slow progress to the east so far. But they are vocal.The whales are passing Kaikash Creek,opposite CP, close to the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 19:51:22 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s,A24s and the A5s have made it back to the Reserve and are continuing east.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 20:31:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are debating whether we can still hear calls through the noise of the distorted,lapping water on the rubbing beach system. What we do know is that the last calls on the Critical Point system were at 10:05pm. About twenty minutes later the A30s,A24s and A5s were off the beaches. There was some rubbing activity between 10:57pm and 11:05pm. After that the calls grew steadily more distant as the whales moved even further away.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 23:24:35 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales can be heard once again on Critical Point.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 23:51:33 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s have arrived in Robson Bight from the east. There are still faint calls on the rubbing beach system.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 23:56:48 PDT
Seasmoke reports
On the afternoon tour the pods of orcas who had been travelling back from the far east all morning in Johnstone Strait were sighted, they were well spread out across the Strait: the A30’s, A24’s and A5’s (A8’s, A23’s and A25’s). We encountered the A30’s near Kaikash, A39 was foraging well ahead of the others. There was a lot of interaction between family members with multiple spyhopping, pectoral and tail slapping, porpoising and resting behaviour being observed. At the Bauza Islets we observed several orcas foraging, some were resting while others moved further west. Where ever one looked, orcas could be seen in the distance and it was nice to sit quietly and listen to their beautiful A-Clan calls.
We've been listening to wonderful calls from A1s, A4s, A5s, on the Critical Point hydrophone. Boat noise is coming now.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 00:18:21 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Right now, lovely A30 calls off Critical Point continue.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 02:37:34 PDT
No orcas present.
There are whales heading back west from the Broken Islands. Earliier this morning, after the last post when the A30s were sitting on top of Critical Point, the A5s came soon after and the scene shifted to the Rubbing Beach system. The rub began at 3am and carried on for a while, then the A4,A30 calls grew increasing distant. It was not absolutely clear what the A5s did after being so close to Critical Point but these groups have enjoyed each other's company so we believe they also went east.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 10:56:03 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After zooming past the Beaches the whales, (the A30s, A24s and A5s) have moved into the area opposite Robson Bight and Boat Bay.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 12:18:14 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A8s were first to go by (under) the Cliff at 1pm. A28, from that group, was swimming back with the A23s (just like last year). The A30s were closer to the Vancouver Island shore with the A24s following. A39 was in the middle. Now, just past Kaikash Creek the A24s are angling out toward the Hanson Island side as the other groups continue westward.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 13:49:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whale groups are stretched from Blinkhorn back to the CP area. The A30s and the A24s travelled up the Vancouver island side. The A24s angled out once they reached Kaiakash Creek. Meanwhil, on the the A8s and A23s progressed past CP and up the Hanson island side. The A25s are the last group passing CP.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 14:44:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A few of the whales turned back to the east and one of the A30 males made it all the way to Izumi Rock (just west of Robson Bight) before turning around to the Northwest. Other groups were still off the Blinkhorn, Telegraph Cove area while this happeened.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 16:06:58 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales are really eastbound now. At 4:45pm, the Lukwas reported that as they headed into Telegraph Cove, there were whales spread from deep inside Beaver Coe (to the west of Telegraph Cove) to the Stephenson Islands in the entrance of Weynton Passage. They were beginning to turn then. An hour later, the whales were off Blinkhorn (east of Telegraph Cove) and still east bound.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 17:59:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Very slow progress to the east so far. But they are vocal.The whales are passing Kaikash Creek,opposite CP, close to the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 19:51:22 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s,A24s and the A5s have made it back to the Reserve and are continuing east.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 20:31:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are debating whether we can still hear calls through the noise of the distorted,lapping water on the rubbing beach system. What we do know is that the last calls on the Critical Point system were at 10:05pm. About twenty minutes later the A30s,A24s and A5s were off the beaches. There was some rubbing activity between 10:57pm and 11:05pm. After that the calls grew steadily more distant as the whales moved even further away.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 23:24:35 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales can be heard once again on Critical Point.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 23:51:33 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s have arrived in Robson Bight from the east. There are still faint calls on the rubbing beach system.
Helena
09 Aug 2009 23:56:48 PDT
Seasmoke reports
On the afternoon tour the pods of orcas who had been travelling back from the far east all morning in Johnstone Strait were sighted, they were well spread out across the Strait: the A30’s, A24’s and A5’s (A8’s, A23’s and A25’s). We encountered the A30’s near Kaikash, A39 was foraging well ahead of the others. There was a lot of interaction between family members with multiple spyhopping, pectoral and tail slapping, porpoising and resting behaviour being observed. At the Bauza Islets we observed several orcas foraging, some were resting while others moved further west. Where ever one looked, orcas could be seen in the distance and it was nice to sit quietly and listen to their beautiful A-Clan calls.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
No calls but orcas nearby
Sorry another town run so few notes..... basically what happened today was that the A36s with A12 came into Johnstone Strait around 6am. They then headed east past CP and when opposite the "Cliff" A46 and A12 continued toward the Reserve while A37 foraged midstrait and A32 headed back to CP for a forage. This was about 11am. Reports were beginning to filter through that the A30s,A24s and A5s, who started off in the morning off Kelsey Bay, were making good progress west. By the time A32 was off CP (11am) the bigger group was already up to Port Neville. By the time we neared Alert Bay for our town run the A30s,A24s and A5s were nearing the Broken Islands already (12pm). Two hours later, they were nearing the Eastern Boundary of the Reserve. Another hour, and they were passing through the Reserve while the A36s and A12 were back off CP. Three more hours, they were west of Kaikash Creek, pulling the A36s and A12 along with them. They were, by this time, travelling at a somewhat slower pace and very spread out. We actually, on our way to CP to deliver groceries, passed them when between Kaikash and Blinkhorn. By the time we landed back on Hanson Island and unpacked the rest of the groceries, the whales had turned back to the east. By the time dinner was made, the A36s and A12 decided to go north through Blackney Pass (7:40pm). The A30s,A24s and the A5s were east of Izumi by then and continuing east silently. The A36s/A12 obliged with a few calls but generally it has been remarkably quiet.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 20:58:17 PDT
Sorry another town run so few notes..... basically what happened today was that the A36s with A12 came into Johnstone Strait around 6am. They then headed east past CP and when opposite the "Cliff" A46 and A12 continued toward the Reserve while A37 foraged midstrait and A32 headed back to CP for a forage. This was about 11am. Reports were beginning to filter through that the A30s,A24s and A5s, who started off in the morning off Kelsey Bay, were making good progress west. By the time A32 was off CP (11am) the bigger group was already up to Port Neville. By the time we neared Alert Bay for our town run the A30s,A24s and A5s were nearing the Broken Islands already (12pm). Two hours later, they were nearing the Eastern Boundary of the Reserve. Another hour, and they were passing through the Reserve while the A36s and A12 were back off CP. Three more hours, they were west of Kaikash Creek, pulling the A36s and A12 along with them. They were, by this time, travelling at a somewhat slower pace and very spread out. We actually, on our way to CP to deliver groceries, passed them when between Kaikash and Blinkhorn. By the time we landed back on Hanson Island and unpacked the rest of the groceries, the whales had turned back to the east. By the time dinner was made, the A36s and A12 decided to go north through Blackney Pass (7:40pm). The A30s,A24s and the A5s were east of Izumi by then and continuing east silently. The A36s/A12 obliged with a few calls but generally it has been remarkably quiet.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 20:58:17 PDT
Friday, August 07, 2009
A30s with A24s A5s and presumably A12 in JS
No orcas present.
The A30s, A24s,A5s continued to move closer and eventually past Critical Point and Robson Bight just before midnight. They seemingly carried on east, briefly rubbing at 12:30am. The very last distant calls from the rubbing beach system (which hears fairly far to the east this year) was at 2:10am. After that the night was "quiet". The last calls in Blackfish Sound (the other direction) were at 11:08pm.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 06:53:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
They are on their way back from the east!
Helena
07 Aug 2009 08:55:24 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The same groups as last night (the A30s, A24s/A73, and A5s) are headed west very quickly along the Vancouver Island approaching Kaikash Creek. At 9:55am, we had a chance to talk with Marie who is stationed on the "Cliff" opposite Robson Bight. Around 9:30am, she had the groups file past her close to the Cracroft shore. The whales were in a playful mood, in mixed groups. A60,A61 and A39 were in the lead, followed by the rest of the A30s in company with A28, the A5s were next, at 9:35am, about 200 meters offshore of the Cliff, the A24s with Springer were midstrait. When the whales were almost to Pizza Point (just east of the Sophias) a boat rounded the "corner" at speed. The whales turned abruptly and headed to the far shore towards the Western Boundary". From there, they moved along the Vancouver Island shore at top speed.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 10:51:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales are still going west approaching Blinkhorn and the top end of Hanson Island. Around 11am, the groups going along Vancouver Island split with some heading to Hanson Island, east of Big Bay while the rest carried west along Vancouver Island. A39 and A38 foraged off the top end of Hanson Island for a while and then A38 branched off to angle toward Blinkhorn. The surprise of the day is that A12 turned up off Swaine Point (Boat Bay) as she too headed west. At 11:45 she was past the Cliff and heading towards the Sophias. We last heard her in Blackfish Sound just after 11pm. She must have back tracked after this time.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 12:16:22 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
At 3:15pm the whales turned back to the west. By 4pm they were approaching the Sophia islands. A23s,A8s,A25s and A30s were on the Cracroft Island side as they moved west. Another half hour of travel brought the A23s and A25s 300 meters off CP with the A30s and A8s more mid strait. The A24s followed mid strait. By 5pm they were opposite Blinkhorn and still going west.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 17:29:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A few calls and a turn to the east. Now on their way from Blinkhorn.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 17:48:06 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s, A24s,A5s and presumably A12 too have made it back to the Bight and once again they are calling as evening comes along.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 20:05:59 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
From Critical to their next favourite spot - the Beaches!
Helena
07 Aug 2009 21:09:32 PDT
Seasmoke reports
It was another beautiful day to be out on the water enjoying the beauty and majesty of the area. We were again fortunate to have the same pods of orcas as yesterday in Johnstone Strait. They were the A30’s, all of the A5’s and the A24’s. On the morning tour when we headed out the orcas were all travelling to the west and we encountered them at Kaikash Beach. Deploying our hydrophone as soon as we arrived it was wonderful for everyone on board to listen to their beautiful A-Clan calls. The orcas continued to the west, some pods were sighted over on the Hanson Island shoreline. A38 who had been seen earlier travelling with his mother A30 close to the Vancouver Island Shore was seen crossing over towards the Hanson Shore as he foraged, his brother A39 was further to the west also foraging. We headed back via Island waterways viewing hauled out Harbour Seals and numerous seabirds. On the afternoon tour the orcas had turned back to the east, some pods had entered the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. The A24’s were still outside of the Reserve during our time with them and passengers were delighted, the viewing was superb in the late afternoon sunlight. Travelling, resting breaching and spyhopping behaviour was observed today.
The A30s, A24s,A5s continued to move closer and eventually past Critical Point and Robson Bight just before midnight. They seemingly carried on east, briefly rubbing at 12:30am. The very last distant calls from the rubbing beach system (which hears fairly far to the east this year) was at 2:10am. After that the night was "quiet". The last calls in Blackfish Sound (the other direction) were at 11:08pm.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 06:53:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
They are on their way back from the east!
Helena
07 Aug 2009 08:55:24 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The same groups as last night (the A30s, A24s/A73, and A5s) are headed west very quickly along the Vancouver Island approaching Kaikash Creek. At 9:55am, we had a chance to talk with Marie who is stationed on the "Cliff" opposite Robson Bight. Around 9:30am, she had the groups file past her close to the Cracroft shore. The whales were in a playful mood, in mixed groups. A60,A61 and A39 were in the lead, followed by the rest of the A30s in company with A28, the A5s were next, at 9:35am, about 200 meters offshore of the Cliff, the A24s with Springer were midstrait. When the whales were almost to Pizza Point (just east of the Sophias) a boat rounded the "corner" at speed. The whales turned abruptly and headed to the far shore towards the Western Boundary". From there, they moved along the Vancouver Island shore at top speed.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 10:51:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales are still going west approaching Blinkhorn and the top end of Hanson Island. Around 11am, the groups going along Vancouver Island split with some heading to Hanson Island, east of Big Bay while the rest carried west along Vancouver Island. A39 and A38 foraged off the top end of Hanson Island for a while and then A38 branched off to angle toward Blinkhorn. The surprise of the day is that A12 turned up off Swaine Point (Boat Bay) as she too headed west. At 11:45 she was past the Cliff and heading towards the Sophias. We last heard her in Blackfish Sound just after 11pm. She must have back tracked after this time.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 12:16:22 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
At 3:15pm the whales turned back to the west. By 4pm they were approaching the Sophia islands. A23s,A8s,A25s and A30s were on the Cracroft Island side as they moved west. Another half hour of travel brought the A23s and A25s 300 meters off CP with the A30s and A8s more mid strait. The A24s followed mid strait. By 5pm they were opposite Blinkhorn and still going west.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 17:29:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A few calls and a turn to the east. Now on their way from Blinkhorn.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 17:48:06 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s, A24s,A5s and presumably A12 too have made it back to the Bight and once again they are calling as evening comes along.
Helena
07 Aug 2009 20:05:59 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
From Critical to their next favourite spot - the Beaches!
Helena
07 Aug 2009 21:09:32 PDT
Seasmoke reports
It was another beautiful day to be out on the water enjoying the beauty and majesty of the area. We were again fortunate to have the same pods of orcas as yesterday in Johnstone Strait. They were the A30’s, all of the A5’s and the A24’s. On the morning tour when we headed out the orcas were all travelling to the west and we encountered them at Kaikash Beach. Deploying our hydrophone as soon as we arrived it was wonderful for everyone on board to listen to their beautiful A-Clan calls. The orcas continued to the west, some pods were sighted over on the Hanson Island shoreline. A38 who had been seen earlier travelling with his mother A30 close to the Vancouver Island Shore was seen crossing over towards the Hanson Shore as he foraged, his brother A39 was further to the west also foraging. We headed back via Island waterways viewing hauled out Harbour Seals and numerous seabirds. On the afternoon tour the orcas had turned back to the east, some pods had entered the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. The A24’s were still outside of the Reserve during our time with them and passengers were delighted, the viewing was superb in the late afternoon sunlight. Travelling, resting breaching and spyhopping behaviour was observed today.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
A30s with A4s and A5s
Multiple pod calls audible.
Maybe this is a real push to the west and the previous one a dress rehearsal. However, the tide has turned to the flood and one would think the whales would like the easy road. This has not been their rule all day and most of their travel has been against the tide. So we will see but so far we have heard the A5s,A4s and A30s on the Critical Point system.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 00:01:35 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After a period of heavy boat noise (cruise ships) we're hearing frequent distant calls on the Rubbing Beach hydrophone. Sounds like the groups are still energetic, & have moved to the east a bit.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 04:13:39 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s are within Robson Bight now after stalling off the east end with the A4s and A5s for quite some time.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 05:26:21 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Since the last note, all the groups made it back to Robson Bight, following the A30s lead. Except for the A36s and A12, who made it all the way to the entrance of Blackney Pass by 7:19am, the majority shifted back and forth from Critical Point to a little further west. After great some great excitment when perhaps finding fish, the whales finally decided collectively to rest and move west with the help of the tide. They are slowly moving that direction now opposite the "Cliff".
Helena
06 Aug 2009 09:48:32 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Believe it or not, there are orcas out there in Johnstone Strait. After the party there is a whole lot of resting going on!. The A30s made it to Blinkhorn and the A24s crossed over towards them, then everyone turned eastward again. The A30s moved away from Vancouver Island on the turn and are mid strait slowly,silently moving east with the A5s. The A24s are past the Baron Reefs. Earlier today, the A36s with A12 were slipped into Blackney Pass around 7:19am. There have been no further reports about their whereabouts.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 15:44:07 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups are eastbound moving slowly from midstrait towards Vancouver Island. A39 is lingering off CP doing a bit of foraging. The A36s have been found off of Lizard Point without A12. CP thinks she went by them earlier today.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 16:06:45 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Suddenly we heard A12/A36 on Flower Island and we are waiting to see what happens next. After A12 rushed through to the north earlier, the other (the A30s,A4s and A5s) made a move toward Blackney Pass (they had come back quietly to the west) but they decided to turn tail and go back to the Strait. We never saw them but CP was able to keep track of their in and out of Blackney movement. apparently, they were either all tight together or in a long resting line as they moved about. Long resting lines used to be quite common so it is good to see this tradition once again. These groups went west briefly once back in the Strait but then turned east. They are now approaching Robson Bight and have found their voices once again! lovely, like last night.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 22:12:16 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Lovely, lovely,lovely A30s, A5s and A24s!!!!
Helena
06 Aug 2009 22:50:42 PDT
Seasmoke reports
The day was a truly amazing one with wonderful viewing of orcas in Johnstone Strait. Today we were able to clearly view and enjoy all of the pods in Johnstone Strait, they were the A30’s, the A24’s and the A5’s. Our first encounter began with sighting the A24’s traveling very close along the shoreline of West Cracroft Island and close to the Baron Reefs near Cracroft Point.
They crossed Blackney Passage and continued to travel west but as we watched from a distance they turned back towards Cracroft Point. Crossing Johnstone Strait we sighted two more groups of orcas moving to the west slowly, the A5’s were altogether in the lead followed by the A30’s. They were at a distance from the Vancouver Island shore and it was beautiful to observe the resting lines of orcas. One male orca, A39 separated from his pod and foraged further west beyond Blinkhorn and while the hydrophone was deployed we heard their A-Clan calls, at this point both groups of orcas turned back to the east and A39 was observed turning back as well, moving quickly to catch up with his pod. The orcas had been relaxed and resting and some spyhops were seen amongst the A24’s that included A73.
Maybe this is a real push to the west and the previous one a dress rehearsal. However, the tide has turned to the flood and one would think the whales would like the easy road. This has not been their rule all day and most of their travel has been against the tide. So we will see but so far we have heard the A5s,A4s and A30s on the Critical Point system.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 00:01:35 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After a period of heavy boat noise (cruise ships) we're hearing frequent distant calls on the Rubbing Beach hydrophone. Sounds like the groups are still energetic, & have moved to the east a bit.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 04:13:39 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s are within Robson Bight now after stalling off the east end with the A4s and A5s for quite some time.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 05:26:21 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Since the last note, all the groups made it back to Robson Bight, following the A30s lead. Except for the A36s and A12, who made it all the way to the entrance of Blackney Pass by 7:19am, the majority shifted back and forth from Critical Point to a little further west. After great some great excitment when perhaps finding fish, the whales finally decided collectively to rest and move west with the help of the tide. They are slowly moving that direction now opposite the "Cliff".
Helena
06 Aug 2009 09:48:32 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Believe it or not, there are orcas out there in Johnstone Strait. After the party there is a whole lot of resting going on!. The A30s made it to Blinkhorn and the A24s crossed over towards them, then everyone turned eastward again. The A30s moved away from Vancouver Island on the turn and are mid strait slowly,silently moving east with the A5s. The A24s are past the Baron Reefs. Earlier today, the A36s with A12 were slipped into Blackney Pass around 7:19am. There have been no further reports about their whereabouts.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 15:44:07 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups are eastbound moving slowly from midstrait towards Vancouver Island. A39 is lingering off CP doing a bit of foraging. The A36s have been found off of Lizard Point without A12. CP thinks she went by them earlier today.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 16:06:45 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Suddenly we heard A12/A36 on Flower Island and we are waiting to see what happens next. After A12 rushed through to the north earlier, the other (the A30s,A4s and A5s) made a move toward Blackney Pass (they had come back quietly to the west) but they decided to turn tail and go back to the Strait. We never saw them but CP was able to keep track of their in and out of Blackney movement. apparently, they were either all tight together or in a long resting line as they moved about. Long resting lines used to be quite common so it is good to see this tradition once again. These groups went west briefly once back in the Strait but then turned east. They are now approaching Robson Bight and have found their voices once again! lovely, like last night.
Helena
06 Aug 2009 22:12:16 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Lovely, lovely,lovely A30s, A5s and A24s!!!!
Helena
06 Aug 2009 22:50:42 PDT
Seasmoke reports
The day was a truly amazing one with wonderful viewing of orcas in Johnstone Strait. Today we were able to clearly view and enjoy all of the pods in Johnstone Strait, they were the A30’s, the A24’s and the A5’s. Our first encounter began with sighting the A24’s traveling very close along the shoreline of West Cracroft Island and close to the Baron Reefs near Cracroft Point.
They crossed Blackney Passage and continued to travel west but as we watched from a distance they turned back towards Cracroft Point. Crossing Johnstone Strait we sighted two more groups of orcas moving to the west slowly, the A5’s were altogether in the lead followed by the A30’s. They were at a distance from the Vancouver Island shore and it was beautiful to observe the resting lines of orcas. One male orca, A39 separated from his pod and foraged further west beyond Blinkhorn and while the hydrophone was deployed we heard their A-Clan calls, at this point both groups of orcas turned back to the east and A39 was observed turning back as well, moving quickly to catch up with his pod. The orcas had been relaxed and resting and some spyhops were seen amongst the A24’s that included A73.
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
A30s with A24s, A36s and A5s
Orcas near mics.
The A36s, who came into Johnstone Strait at 4am, are off Critical Point after travelling eastward in Johnstone Strait. The others, the A30s,A24s,and A5s with A12 following them continued east last night.
Helena
05 Aug 2009 08:33:00 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
A little bit of rubbing and a lot of distant calls as the A30s, A24s, A5s head west. Some groups are going through the Ecologial Reserve while others travelling opposite to the Cracroft shore. The A36s probably turned west in advance of the arriving groups and were first back to Robson Bight. After which it was one of the A5 group's turn.
Helena
05 Aug 2009 13:09:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The groups (the A36s, A24s,A5s and the A30s) continued west past CP. A32 and A37 came back to forage off of CP. The mood out there is still very social;spyhops, rolling around, breaches, tail slaps and very mixed groups. Lots of boat noise is the only thing which spoils the fun.
Helena
05 Aug 2009 16:42:52 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Sounds like there's a party in the Bight tonight!
Helena
05 Aug 2009 19:53:45 PDT
Superb sounds!!
After the briefest of rubs, the groups have begun a westward trek again, rounding Critical Point with amazing sounds
Helena
05 Aug 2009 21:55:41 PDT
Seasmoke reports
On the afternoon tour the orcas who had been to the east were returning back to the west at a very rapid rate. It was near Kaikash Beach that we suddenly saw a pod of orcas approaching, moving quickly and very close along the Vancouver Island shore, mothers and their calves. Stopping to deploy the hydrophone it was exciting to hear their A-Clan calls. Scanning across the Strait numerous orcas could be seen in all directions, it was an amazing sight, they were so spread out. The pods were the same as yesterday: A30’s, A5’s, A24’s and A36’s. As the lead groups neared the Bauza Islets they slowed, some were observed resting and foraging while others socialized. The viewing was superb as was the lighting. Just when passengers thought that it could not get any better it did. We had been observing A39 who was foraging alone mid Strait well ahead of us and we had stopped to watch his foraging tactics when suddenly he turned back and then towards us, circling around the entire boat. It was breathtaking and beautiful to see this orca under the water, so large and floating free! It was like magic, over in a moment yet somewhere in all of our minds eye, that powerful image remains vivid. Looking back we could see that the orcas had turned back east and we ourselves were headed home.
The A36s, who came into Johnstone Strait at 4am, are off Critical Point after travelling eastward in Johnstone Strait. The others, the A30s,A24s,and A5s with A12 following them continued east last night.
Helena
05 Aug 2009 08:33:00 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
A little bit of rubbing and a lot of distant calls as the A30s, A24s, A5s head west. Some groups are going through the Ecologial Reserve while others travelling opposite to the Cracroft shore. The A36s probably turned west in advance of the arriving groups and were first back to Robson Bight. After which it was one of the A5 group's turn.
Helena
05 Aug 2009 13:09:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The groups (the A36s, A24s,A5s and the A30s) continued west past CP. A32 and A37 came back to forage off of CP. The mood out there is still very social;spyhops, rolling around, breaches, tail slaps and very mixed groups. Lots of boat noise is the only thing which spoils the fun.
Helena
05 Aug 2009 16:42:52 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Sounds like there's a party in the Bight tonight!
Helena
05 Aug 2009 19:53:45 PDT
Superb sounds!!
After the briefest of rubs, the groups have begun a westward trek again, rounding Critical Point with amazing sounds
Helena
05 Aug 2009 21:55:41 PDT
Seasmoke reports
On the afternoon tour the orcas who had been to the east were returning back to the west at a very rapid rate. It was near Kaikash Beach that we suddenly saw a pod of orcas approaching, moving quickly and very close along the Vancouver Island shore, mothers and their calves. Stopping to deploy the hydrophone it was exciting to hear their A-Clan calls. Scanning across the Strait numerous orcas could be seen in all directions, it was an amazing sight, they were so spread out. The pods were the same as yesterday: A30’s, A5’s, A24’s and A36’s. As the lead groups neared the Bauza Islets they slowed, some were observed resting and foraging while others socialized. The viewing was superb as was the lighting. Just when passengers thought that it could not get any better it did. We had been observing A39 who was foraging alone mid Strait well ahead of us and we had stopped to watch his foraging tactics when suddenly he turned back and then towards us, circling around the entire boat. It was breathtaking and beautiful to see this orca under the water, so large and floating free! It was like magic, over in a moment yet somewhere in all of our minds eye, that powerful image remains vivid. Looking back we could see that the orcas had turned back east and we ourselves were headed home.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
A30s had A24s, A5s, A36 and A12 on tow to the east
Distant calls audible.
A very,very busy night: the A4s,A1s stayed in the Rubbing Beach/Robson Bight area throughout the early morning hours, taking turns at the Beaches then drifting back to Critical Point. We are still working out the details of the movements, but the A5s did come up from the east and joined the others so it was quite the party. Later, the A36s and A12 broke away to come north through Blackney Pass in a rush to get to the west. The A30s followed (just recently) up to the Sophia Islands but then turned back toward the Reserve. The A4s are not too far away but the A5s may have possibly turned back eastward.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 09:03:08 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s probably had everyone in tow when they travelled up to the Sophias. The report is of about 30 orcas.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 09:08:47 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
And back again to the Beaches!
Helena
04 Aug 2009 10:13:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales got as far as Naka Creek then turned back to the west. The are back in the Ecological Reserve and on the Boat Bay side.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 12:41:24 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The day so far has been about a progression to the west. The A30s, A5s and A24s moved slowly at first to the west and then when opposite CP (Kaikash Creek area) they began to pick up some speed. They were spread acrosss the Strait in mixed groups. they are now east bound and some even back to the Kaikash Creek area. Meanwhile, the A36s made it back to Blackfish Sound and we were just visited by A12 alone in Blackney Pass. We lost track of her during a long dive when she was directly out front.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 18:08:02 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Lovely calls as the A30s & Co close in on Robson Bight. A12 got herself into Johnstone Strait.The A36s were getting further away but ,at this point, not sure what they might be up to. An interesting note for yesterday: the Sea Otter came upon the W3s off of Donegal Head. And from a later report from Rob and Erin, the Ws went through Pearse Pass at 9:30pm. We never heard them in Johnstone Strait and no evidence today of their presence. So this is a bit of mystery. It was only 2 of the Ws as it looks like W5 might be gone.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 19:43:54 PDT
Distant calls audible.
That was lovely,lovely,lovely!
Helena
04 Aug 2009 20:42:57 PDT
Seasmoke reports
As we headed out on tour, passengers and crew alike could not imagine the remarkable orca viewing that lay ahead. Nearing the Sophia Islands we could see orca fins and blows stretched before us across Johnstone Strait, heading west in our direction. It was very exciting to see them speeding by and that was literally what they were doing. Because they were traveling at such a rapid rate and being so spread out, the mothers and their calves close along the Vancouver Island shoreline, it was very difficult to identify the individual orcas and their pods. The orcas that were in the Strait most of the day and this afternoon were the A30’s, A24’s, and the A5’s. The orcas that we were closer to and better able to identify were the A30’s who were also spread out (A54 and her calves and A38), the A25’s and also the A24’s including A73 with her open saddle patch. Stopping at times to deploy the hydrophone, it was wonderful listening to their beautiful A-Clan calls as well, ecolocations as some orcas foraged nearby. Breaching, spyhopping, foraging, pectoral slapping and resting behaviour was observed. Heading back home care was taken to steer clear of numerous orcas who were still heading west behind those who had slowed down and were foraging off the Bauza Islets. It was indeed a very remarkable day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait.
A very,very busy night: the A4s,A1s stayed in the Rubbing Beach/Robson Bight area throughout the early morning hours, taking turns at the Beaches then drifting back to Critical Point. We are still working out the details of the movements, but the A5s did come up from the east and joined the others so it was quite the party. Later, the A36s and A12 broke away to come north through Blackney Pass in a rush to get to the west. The A30s followed (just recently) up to the Sophia Islands but then turned back toward the Reserve. The A4s are not too far away but the A5s may have possibly turned back eastward.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 09:03:08 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s probably had everyone in tow when they travelled up to the Sophias. The report is of about 30 orcas.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 09:08:47 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
And back again to the Beaches!
Helena
04 Aug 2009 10:13:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales got as far as Naka Creek then turned back to the west. The are back in the Ecological Reserve and on the Boat Bay side.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 12:41:24 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The day so far has been about a progression to the west. The A30s, A5s and A24s moved slowly at first to the west and then when opposite CP (Kaikash Creek area) they began to pick up some speed. They were spread acrosss the Strait in mixed groups. they are now east bound and some even back to the Kaikash Creek area. Meanwhile, the A36s made it back to Blackfish Sound and we were just visited by A12 alone in Blackney Pass. We lost track of her during a long dive when she was directly out front.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 18:08:02 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Lovely calls as the A30s & Co close in on Robson Bight. A12 got herself into Johnstone Strait.The A36s were getting further away but ,at this point, not sure what they might be up to. An interesting note for yesterday: the Sea Otter came upon the W3s off of Donegal Head. And from a later report from Rob and Erin, the Ws went through Pearse Pass at 9:30pm. We never heard them in Johnstone Strait and no evidence today of their presence. So this is a bit of mystery. It was only 2 of the Ws as it looks like W5 might be gone.
Helena
04 Aug 2009 19:43:54 PDT
Distant calls audible.
That was lovely,lovely,lovely!
Helena
04 Aug 2009 20:42:57 PDT
Seasmoke reports
As we headed out on tour, passengers and crew alike could not imagine the remarkable orca viewing that lay ahead. Nearing the Sophia Islands we could see orca fins and blows stretched before us across Johnstone Strait, heading west in our direction. It was very exciting to see them speeding by and that was literally what they were doing. Because they were traveling at such a rapid rate and being so spread out, the mothers and their calves close along the Vancouver Island shoreline, it was very difficult to identify the individual orcas and their pods. The orcas that were in the Strait most of the day and this afternoon were the A30’s, A24’s, and the A5’s. The orcas that we were closer to and better able to identify were the A30’s who were also spread out (A54 and her calves and A38), the A25’s and also the A24’s including A73 with her open saddle patch. Stopping at times to deploy the hydrophone, it was wonderful listening to their beautiful A-Clan calls as well, ecolocations as some orcas foraged nearby. Breaching, spyhopping, foraging, pectoral slapping and resting behaviour was observed. Heading back home care was taken to steer clear of numerous orcas who were still heading west behind those who had slowed down and were foraging off the Bauza Islets. It was indeed a very remarkable day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait.
Monday, August 03, 2009
A30s gathering with A36s
No orcas present.
All is pretty quiet. CP last reported that there were whales going west. We could hear A30 calls getting more distant but the A36s seemed to be getting louder so we wondered if they went east beyond the Reserve. The A24s were reported eastbound off Naka Creek at around 8pm. There were two whales, a male and a female reported off Donegal Head but we never heard any calls and so can't shed any light on who that may have been.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 00:46:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have turned up as well in Blackfish Sound and look like they are headed to Blackney Pass.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 11:20:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s with A12 scooted through Blackney Pass in a rush to get to Johnstone Strait. They were all together. A12 looked lovely in the middle of the big boys. A39 followed a while after and he was followed by all the rest of the A30s who cleared our view at 12:13pm. They are now approaching the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 13:04:54 PDT
Distant calls audible.
With A12 in the lead, the whales are westbound and just abpout the exit the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 15:02:32 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It sounds like the A24s are arriving back from the east, now off Robson Bight. The A30s & Co went off to the top end of hanson island and beyond but headed back east. At 7:18pm they were east of Kaikash Creek opposite CP.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 19:48:36 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A36s are off Telegraph Cove while the A30s enter the reserve and Robson Bight. A gathering!
Helena
03 Aug 2009 19:53:55 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A24s are at the rubbing beaches. The A30s are not far away and the A36s are moving east too, now past CP.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 21:11:57 PDT
Seasmoke reports
The A36’s with A12 and the A30’s were inside the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve when we neared the western Reserve boundary but as we watched a male orca was making his way back to the west and it looked as though a female was as well. We watched from the distance of the boundary and sailed with our main sail hoisted and while trailing the hydrophone we listened to their A-Clan calls. The male orca when outside of the western boundary began moving across Johnstone Strait and was identified as A38 while the single female orca who had been sighted earlier was not alone and was identified as A54 with her three calves and they were foraging steadily along the Vancouver Island shoreline, westbound as well. A39 was sighted a distance out from the shore, A50 and her calves were further behind while the A36’s and A12 were further across on the West Cracroft Island side of Johnstone Strait.The viewing was wonderful and as we watched, the calves were playful and interacting together. With the hydrophone deployed again, ecolocation could be heard and their A-Clan calls were clearly audible and wonderful to listen to.
All is pretty quiet. CP last reported that there were whales going west. We could hear A30 calls getting more distant but the A36s seemed to be getting louder so we wondered if they went east beyond the Reserve. The A24s were reported eastbound off Naka Creek at around 8pm. There were two whales, a male and a female reported off Donegal Head but we never heard any calls and so can't shed any light on who that may have been.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 00:46:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have turned up as well in Blackfish Sound and look like they are headed to Blackney Pass.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 11:20:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s with A12 scooted through Blackney Pass in a rush to get to Johnstone Strait. They were all together. A12 looked lovely in the middle of the big boys. A39 followed a while after and he was followed by all the rest of the A30s who cleared our view at 12:13pm. They are now approaching the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 13:04:54 PDT
Distant calls audible.
With A12 in the lead, the whales are westbound and just abpout the exit the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 15:02:32 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It sounds like the A24s are arriving back from the east, now off Robson Bight. The A30s & Co went off to the top end of hanson island and beyond but headed back east. At 7:18pm they were east of Kaikash Creek opposite CP.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 19:48:36 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A36s are off Telegraph Cove while the A30s enter the reserve and Robson Bight. A gathering!
Helena
03 Aug 2009 19:53:55 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A24s are at the rubbing beaches. The A30s are not far away and the A36s are moving east too, now past CP.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 21:11:57 PDT
Seasmoke reports
The A36’s with A12 and the A30’s were inside the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve when we neared the western Reserve boundary but as we watched a male orca was making his way back to the west and it looked as though a female was as well. We watched from the distance of the boundary and sailed with our main sail hoisted and while trailing the hydrophone we listened to their A-Clan calls. The male orca when outside of the western boundary began moving across Johnstone Strait and was identified as A38 while the single female orca who had been sighted earlier was not alone and was identified as A54 with her three calves and they were foraging steadily along the Vancouver Island shoreline, westbound as well. A39 was sighted a distance out from the shore, A50 and her calves were further behind while the A36’s and A12 were further across on the West Cracroft Island side of Johnstone Strait.The viewing was wonderful and as we watched, the calves were playful and interacting together. With the hydrophone deployed again, ecolocation could be heard and their A-Clan calls were clearly audible and wonderful to listen to.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
A30s went to the rubbing beaches after their stay in Blackfish Sound
Orcas near mics.
Interesting night: First of all the A36s actually made it to Johnstone Strait just before 1am. After which there was a fair amount of movement. Right now, the A30s and A24s (after being a short distance east for a while) are not far from Critical Point and Robson Bight. The A5s,however, have not come back from further east yet.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 05:33:30 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The groups are spread out: off the entrance of Blackney Pass;crossing from Vancouver Island to the entrance and close to Critical Point.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 08:22:17 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s with the A24s just passed through Blacknery Pass headed for blackfish Sound. The exciting news!!! is that Springer was with the A24s!!!! This was our first look at the A24s since they came down with the A34s and the A5s in July. When we saw the a24s when they first came in this season, Springer was not with them. This is a bit of a first!!!! We have not heard from the A36s/A12 for quite a while.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 09:32:50 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
To catch up: the A30s and the A24s (with A73) stayed at the top of Blackfish Sound for quite a while after travelling north through Blackney Pass. At 3pm, they travelled on through Weynton Pass and back into Johnstone Strait. Frome there they went east along the Vancouver Island shore and past Critical Point. They are now at the east end of the Reserve and beginning their rub. the A36s, meanwhile, have remained basically off the CP area for most of the day but they have not been very vocal. A 12 has not been with them since about 11:30am. She was last seen heading eastward. The A5s yesterday went "down" Johnstone Strait in the afternoon to Nodales Channel. This morning at 6am they were out of nodales and near Chatham Point. From there they went west to Camp Point. At 10:47am, they turned sleepily east and began to head toward Amour de Cosmos/Bear Bight. (Nick Templeman report). No word on the morning incoming group from Goletas reported via the Mackays.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 18:00:33 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Leaving Weynton Passage, two orca pods, the A30’s and A24’s including A73 were sighted foraging off Bold Head. As passengers watched they slowly made their way across Blackfish Sound and then proceeded to pass through the ‘Blowhole’, a narrow waterway that separates Hanson Island from the Plumper Island group. The A30’s were in the lead this afternoon followed by the A24’s, passing through the Blowhole and then the small waterway that separates Little Weynton Island from Hanson Island, entering then into Johnstone Strait. Visually it was a powerfully rich and memorable experience for all onboard to witness. The A30’s navigated this same route in the afternoon on July 31.
Interesting night: First of all the A36s actually made it to Johnstone Strait just before 1am. After which there was a fair amount of movement. Right now, the A30s and A24s (after being a short distance east for a while) are not far from Critical Point and Robson Bight. The A5s,however, have not come back from further east yet.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 05:33:30 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The groups are spread out: off the entrance of Blackney Pass;crossing from Vancouver Island to the entrance and close to Critical Point.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 08:22:17 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s with the A24s just passed through Blacknery Pass headed for blackfish Sound. The exciting news!!! is that Springer was with the A24s!!!! This was our first look at the A24s since they came down with the A34s and the A5s in July. When we saw the a24s when they first came in this season, Springer was not with them. This is a bit of a first!!!! We have not heard from the A36s/A12 for quite a while.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 09:32:50 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
To catch up: the A30s and the A24s (with A73) stayed at the top of Blackfish Sound for quite a while after travelling north through Blackney Pass. At 3pm, they travelled on through Weynton Pass and back into Johnstone Strait. Frome there they went east along the Vancouver Island shore and past Critical Point. They are now at the east end of the Reserve and beginning their rub. the A36s, meanwhile, have remained basically off the CP area for most of the day but they have not been very vocal. A 12 has not been with them since about 11:30am. She was last seen heading eastward. The A5s yesterday went "down" Johnstone Strait in the afternoon to Nodales Channel. This morning at 6am they were out of nodales and near Chatham Point. From there they went west to Camp Point. At 10:47am, they turned sleepily east and began to head toward Amour de Cosmos/Bear Bight. (Nick Templeman report). No word on the morning incoming group from Goletas reported via the Mackays.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 18:00:33 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Leaving Weynton Passage, two orca pods, the A30’s and A24’s including A73 were sighted foraging off Bold Head. As passengers watched they slowly made their way across Blackfish Sound and then proceeded to pass through the ‘Blowhole’, a narrow waterway that separates Hanson Island from the Plumper Island group. The A30’s were in the lead this afternoon followed by the A24’s, passing through the Blowhole and then the small waterway that separates Little Weynton Island from Hanson Island, entering then into Johnstone Strait. Visually it was a powerfully rich and memorable experience for all onboard to witness. The A30’s navigated this same route in the afternoon on July 31.
Saturday, August 01, 2009
A30s held A24s company until A24s left to the east
Multiple pod calls audible.
We have heard a steady progression of whales pass through Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait to Blackfish Sound. We think the A36s might have been in the lead, followed by a large group that included the A30s and spme of the A5s. It was not clear if the A24s were tucked in with this group. The A51s seemed to be the last group into Blackney Pass.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 01:08:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Around 6:30am we began to hear distant A1,A5 and A4 calls off the western end of Blackfish Sound. Perhaps the groups who went out after midnight are on their way back"in". Very foggy again this morning.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 07:18:31 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
There are whales going south through the fog in Blackney Pass.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 08:35:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The whales that went through Blackney Pass earlier are now approaching Critical Point after entering Johnstone Strait after 8am.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 10:24:25 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales are either at the beaches or just offshore.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 11:00:54 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The groups are moving west toward Cracroft Point now.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 13:45:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are stretched out with one of the males already nearing Blinkhorn. It is the A24s keeping them company. There was report of a group in Queen Charlotte Strait coming east earlier.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 14:20:49 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A36s with A12 entered Johnstone Strait around 3:15pm. They are now eastbound. The A30s and the A24s are closer to the Vancouver Island shore off the Telegragh Cove area.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 15:48:38 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s (+A12) went rushing through Blackney Pass around 6pm. The A30s have just followed. We are not sure where the A24s have gone but they may have stayed in the Strait. Earlier the A5s went east past the Reserve.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 18:47:23 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Echo location close to Critical Point.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 19:23:06 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are heading back south through Blackney Pass very slowly. The A24s sounded like they went east past Critical Point earlier. No sign of the A36s since they were last reported off Bold Head in Blackfish Sound foraging.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 20:07:05 PDT
Orcas near mics.
As the A30s re-entered Johnstone Strait they began calling exactly as the A24s, now at the rubbing beaches began their calling.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 21:32:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s finally made it fully into Johnstone Strait and passed CP (Cracroft Point). There were also a few distant calls on Flower Island in Blackfish Sound, perhaps the A36 group.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 22:30:26 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Heading out this afternoon it was not long before passengers on both vessels were in sight of orcas east of Blinkhorn. There were two Matrilines and their offspring: the A30’s and the A24’s. The mothers and calves were traveling along Vancouver Island and very close to shore, foraging as they went while A38 and A39 were well spread out, A39 being the greatest distance across the Strait from the others. With the hydrophones deployed it was a treat to sit and listen to their A-Clan calls. The viewing had already been wonderful when we learned that the A36 brothers and A12 were entering Johnstone Strait through Weynton Passage. It was very moving to watch as the four orcas entered the Strait altogether as a family group. As they surfaced together it was wonderful seeing A12 in this manner, surrounded by the boys, her being in the middle and all of them very much at ease. They commenced to travel east down the Strait while the A30’s and the A24’s who had been foraging and resting at the top end of the Strait around the Bauza Islets, also turned and commenced to travel back east.
We have heard a steady progression of whales pass through Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait to Blackfish Sound. We think the A36s might have been in the lead, followed by a large group that included the A30s and spme of the A5s. It was not clear if the A24s were tucked in with this group. The A51s seemed to be the last group into Blackney Pass.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 01:08:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Around 6:30am we began to hear distant A1,A5 and A4 calls off the western end of Blackfish Sound. Perhaps the groups who went out after midnight are on their way back"in". Very foggy again this morning.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 07:18:31 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
There are whales going south through the fog in Blackney Pass.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 08:35:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The whales that went through Blackney Pass earlier are now approaching Critical Point after entering Johnstone Strait after 8am.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 10:24:25 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales are either at the beaches or just offshore.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 11:00:54 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The groups are moving west toward Cracroft Point now.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 13:45:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are stretched out with one of the males already nearing Blinkhorn. It is the A24s keeping them company. There was report of a group in Queen Charlotte Strait coming east earlier.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 14:20:49 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A36s with A12 entered Johnstone Strait around 3:15pm. They are now eastbound. The A30s and the A24s are closer to the Vancouver Island shore off the Telegragh Cove area.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 15:48:38 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s (+A12) went rushing through Blackney Pass around 6pm. The A30s have just followed. We are not sure where the A24s have gone but they may have stayed in the Strait. Earlier the A5s went east past the Reserve.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 18:47:23 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Echo location close to Critical Point.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 19:23:06 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are heading back south through Blackney Pass very slowly. The A24s sounded like they went east past Critical Point earlier. No sign of the A36s since they were last reported off Bold Head in Blackfish Sound foraging.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 20:07:05 PDT
Orcas near mics.
As the A30s re-entered Johnstone Strait they began calling exactly as the A24s, now at the rubbing beaches began their calling.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 21:32:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s finally made it fully into Johnstone Strait and passed CP (Cracroft Point). There were also a few distant calls on Flower Island in Blackfish Sound, perhaps the A36 group.
Helena
01 Aug 2009 22:30:26 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Heading out this afternoon it was not long before passengers on both vessels were in sight of orcas east of Blinkhorn. There were two Matrilines and their offspring: the A30’s and the A24’s. The mothers and calves were traveling along Vancouver Island and very close to shore, foraging as they went while A38 and A39 were well spread out, A39 being the greatest distance across the Strait from the others. With the hydrophones deployed it was a treat to sit and listen to their A-Clan calls. The viewing had already been wonderful when we learned that the A36 brothers and A12 were entering Johnstone Strait through Weynton Passage. It was very moving to watch as the four orcas entered the Strait altogether as a family group. As they surfaced together it was wonderful seeing A12 in this manner, surrounded by the boys, her being in the middle and all of them very much at ease. They commenced to travel east down the Strait while the A30’s and the A24’s who had been foraging and resting at the top end of the Strait around the Bauza Islets, also turned and commenced to travel back east.
Friday, July 31, 2009
A30s went west Malcolm Island. Then returned in JS
Orcas hunting fish.
Last night: As the A36s with A12 shifted east of Cracroft Point, the A30s, made a try for Blackney Pass. By 10:16pm they were nearing Blackney Pass but then retreated. At 10:56pm they made Blackney again but again only made it partially through the Pass before returning to Blackfish Sound. Their calls grew increasingly distant as they moved westward by 11:30pm. After midnight (12:40am), there were just a few distant calls in the Strait so it is unclear if that was the A30s or the A36s. The rest of the night was quiet except for boat noise, of course. At 8:12am ,we began to hear faint calls followed by (just now) closer echo location in Robson Bight. This will most likely be a returning group from the east.
Helena
31 Jul 2009 09:01:15 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are headed east off of Lizard Point.
Katie
31 Jul 2009 11:47:37 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are headed east and are off of Donigal Head
Katie
31 Jul 2009 12:02:44 PDT
Superb sounds!!
This is the A30's who have just entered Johnstone Straight through Weyton.
Katie
31 Jul 2009 15:31:44 PDT
We have whales on the Rubbing Beaches... most likely the A30's... they were last heard heading east in johnstone straight. The A36's and A12 are hanging around the entrance of Blackney Pass and CP. They have been moving around in this area for a few hours.
Katie
31 Jul 2009 18:31:11 PDT
Superb sounds!!
This is A30's on Critical Point... the A36's are still hovering around CP and the entrance of Blackney
Katie
31 Jul 2009 19:19:04 PDT
Seasmoke reports
The A30’s, who had traveled east from Lizard Point this morning were observed entering Johnstone Strait from Blackfish Sound via a narrow waterway that separates the Plumper Island group from Hanson Island and is known locally as the ‘Blowhole’. It is always a special treat to see orcas navigating through the narrow island waterways in this manner and on this occasion, the A30’s (10 orcas in total), was a powerfully moving sight to see.
Last night: As the A36s with A12 shifted east of Cracroft Point, the A30s, made a try for Blackney Pass. By 10:16pm they were nearing Blackney Pass but then retreated. At 10:56pm they made Blackney again but again only made it partially through the Pass before returning to Blackfish Sound. Their calls grew increasingly distant as they moved westward by 11:30pm. After midnight (12:40am), there were just a few distant calls in the Strait so it is unclear if that was the A30s or the A36s. The rest of the night was quiet except for boat noise, of course. At 8:12am ,we began to hear faint calls followed by (just now) closer echo location in Robson Bight. This will most likely be a returning group from the east.
Helena
31 Jul 2009 09:01:15 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are headed east off of Lizard Point.
Katie
31 Jul 2009 11:47:37 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are headed east and are off of Donigal Head
Katie
31 Jul 2009 12:02:44 PDT
Superb sounds!!
This is the A30's who have just entered Johnstone Straight through Weyton.
Katie
31 Jul 2009 15:31:44 PDT
We have whales on the Rubbing Beaches... most likely the A30's... they were last heard heading east in johnstone straight. The A36's and A12 are hanging around the entrance of Blackney Pass and CP. They have been moving around in this area for a few hours.
Katie
31 Jul 2009 18:31:11 PDT
Superb sounds!!
This is A30's on Critical Point... the A36's are still hovering around CP and the entrance of Blackney
Katie
31 Jul 2009 19:19:04 PDT
Seasmoke reports
The A30’s, who had traveled east from Lizard Point this morning were observed entering Johnstone Strait from Blackfish Sound via a narrow waterway that separates the Plumper Island group from Hanson Island and is known locally as the ‘Blowhole’. It is always a special treat to see orcas navigating through the narrow island waterways in this manner and on this occasion, the A30’s (10 orcas in total), was a powerfully moving sight to see.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
A30s left A4s and A5s and spend the day in Queen Charlotte Strait
Superb sounds!!
Sounds like at least some of the A1s & A5s are returning from the east & are now in, or passing, Robson Bight. We're listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone. Lots of echolocation, so they must be finding fish!
Helena
30 Jul 2009 04:56:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Quite a bit going on. The A30s,A4s and the A5s came west from the Ecological Reserve to around the entrance of Blackney Pass. They may have turned back east. We are also hearing the A36s opposite the entrance to Blackney Pass.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 07:14:04 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s, A5s,A4s and A36s (A12) are nearing Robson Bight as they head back eastward.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 08:14:30 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Nothing like having the fog clear to make everything a bit clearer. We had assumed that the A30s had stayed with the A4s and the A5s (with whom they had come west around 4:30am this morning) as those two groups turned and went back eastward. Instead, the A30s carried on to the west and left Johnstone Strait at around 8:10am via Weynton Passage. Kingfisher, camped near the entrance of Weynton Pass saw them disappear to the west through Weynton. They have since been located (10 am) very close to Donegal Head still moving slowly out west. Meanwhile, the A36s have parked themselves in front of Cracroft Point (CP) foraging and taking deep dives. An A5 group went past the Rubbing Beaches as the A24s moved into Robson Bight. For now, that is it!
Helena
30 Jul 2009 10:34:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Here is a catch-up: the A36s (even A46) finally moved on to the west. A46 returned to the Cracroft Point area with A12. A12's movements were somewhat obscure today as CP lost track of her for a time. Right now, A32 and A37 are on the edge of Blackfish Sound after going through Weynton Pass without A46 or A12. They may have been waiting for the A30s to return. The A30s spent most of the afternoon in Queen Charlotte Strait but are now off Bold Head in Blackfish Sound. A32 and A37 have turned back toward Weynton Pass.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 18:50:24 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A32 and A37 have arrived (from the west) off Cracroft Point. A12 and A46 ,who were there before, have moved to the east of CP. We do not know where the A30s are but we believe the A24s and the A5s contiued east from the Ecological Reserve earlier today.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 20:56:57 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We are finally hearing the A30s in Blackfish Sound. They are moving our direction!
Helena
30 Jul 2009 21:59:29 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are picking ity up again as they near Flower Island in Blackfish Sound. Next stop - OL? The A36s are vocal every so often in the Strait. CP's last report was that they and A12 were all headed east . Unfortunately, a tug just went south into Johnstone Stait.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 22:39:44 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Following up on a report that orcas were seen earlier heading out through Weynton Passage in the fog, we had gone in that direction and once out into the Queen Charlotte Strait the visibility was clear yet there were no orcas initially in sight and the flood current was strong. It was quite by chance the orcas were sighted, they were tucked in very close to Donegal Head on the south side and traveling close to the shore. Once around the corner of Donegal Head the A30’s spread out and were foraging extensively, A30 and A38 were foraging together as they had been yesterday and foraged closest to the Malcolm Island shoreline. There was a lot of activity observed from both A50’s and A54’s calves including breaching, pectoral and tail slapping, all seen at a distance. It was wonderful to see their exuberant and free-style fun in a wide and almost empty ocean (of boats), having it to themselves for awhile. Their A-Clan calls and ecolocations were superb to listen to and enjoyed by all passengers on both of our vessels.
Sounds like at least some of the A1s & A5s are returning from the east & are now in, or passing, Robson Bight. We're listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone. Lots of echolocation, so they must be finding fish!
Helena
30 Jul 2009 04:56:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Quite a bit going on. The A30s,A4s and the A5s came west from the Ecological Reserve to around the entrance of Blackney Pass. They may have turned back east. We are also hearing the A36s opposite the entrance to Blackney Pass.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 07:14:04 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s, A5s,A4s and A36s (A12) are nearing Robson Bight as they head back eastward.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 08:14:30 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Nothing like having the fog clear to make everything a bit clearer. We had assumed that the A30s had stayed with the A4s and the A5s (with whom they had come west around 4:30am this morning) as those two groups turned and went back eastward. Instead, the A30s carried on to the west and left Johnstone Strait at around 8:10am via Weynton Passage. Kingfisher, camped near the entrance of Weynton Pass saw them disappear to the west through Weynton. They have since been located (10 am) very close to Donegal Head still moving slowly out west. Meanwhile, the A36s have parked themselves in front of Cracroft Point (CP) foraging and taking deep dives. An A5 group went past the Rubbing Beaches as the A24s moved into Robson Bight. For now, that is it!
Helena
30 Jul 2009 10:34:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Here is a catch-up: the A36s (even A46) finally moved on to the west. A46 returned to the Cracroft Point area with A12. A12's movements were somewhat obscure today as CP lost track of her for a time. Right now, A32 and A37 are on the edge of Blackfish Sound after going through Weynton Pass without A46 or A12. They may have been waiting for the A30s to return. The A30s spent most of the afternoon in Queen Charlotte Strait but are now off Bold Head in Blackfish Sound. A32 and A37 have turned back toward Weynton Pass.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 18:50:24 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A32 and A37 have arrived (from the west) off Cracroft Point. A12 and A46 ,who were there before, have moved to the east of CP. We do not know where the A30s are but we believe the A24s and the A5s contiued east from the Ecological Reserve earlier today.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 20:56:57 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We are finally hearing the A30s in Blackfish Sound. They are moving our direction!
Helena
30 Jul 2009 21:59:29 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are picking ity up again as they near Flower Island in Blackfish Sound. Next stop - OL? The A36s are vocal every so often in the Strait. CP's last report was that they and A12 were all headed east . Unfortunately, a tug just went south into Johnstone Stait.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 22:39:44 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Following up on a report that orcas were seen earlier heading out through Weynton Passage in the fog, we had gone in that direction and once out into the Queen Charlotte Strait the visibility was clear yet there were no orcas initially in sight and the flood current was strong. It was quite by chance the orcas were sighted, they were tucked in very close to Donegal Head on the south side and traveling close to the shore. Once around the corner of Donegal Head the A30’s spread out and were foraging extensively, A30 and A38 were foraging together as they had been yesterday and foraged closest to the Malcolm Island shoreline. There was a lot of activity observed from both A50’s and A54’s calves including breaching, pectoral and tail slapping, all seen at a distance. It was wonderful to see their exuberant and free-style fun in a wide and almost empty ocean (of boats), having it to themselves for awhile. Their A-Clan calls and ecolocations were superb to listen to and enjoyed by all passengers on both of our vessels.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
A30s foraging and rubbing
No calls but orcas nearby
Actually there are whales everywhere: the A30s are currently heading south in Blackney Pass following A12's lead (she cleared earlier). The A36s were off of CP (they came west after their bout at critical point at 8am) and the a4 group with the A5s are westbound from boat bay (after their rub earlier). Whew! and an humpback in Blackfish as well!
Helena
29 Jul 2009 11:05:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have gone in for a rub while the A36s and A12 are foraging off of Blinkhorn, east of Telegraph Cove.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 14:43:13 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Sounds like the A30s are having a bite in the Bight... lots of echolocation (& calls) close the the Critical Point hydrophone.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 19:00:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Beautiful A30 calls on Critical Point! The A30s (and A5s) finally did come a bit further west to around the Kaikash Creek area before turning back to the east. They are in front of Critical Point.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 19:15:24 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
CP reports that A46 is foraging in front of Cracroft Point. We have been listening to the A4s,A5s and the A30s at the rubbing beaches. Their calls are getting more distant now.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 20:59:18 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Not really that close yet, but we are hearing clear A36 calls once again in Johnstone Strait. CP reported an hour ago that the A36s with A12 were moving eastward midstrait. We believe, for now, that the A30s,A4s and A5s kept going eastward from their time at the Beaches.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 23:01:58 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Today was an exceptional day for viewing marine mammals in the area and it had to be again one of the warmest days of the summer. The fog was clearing as we neared the Stephenson Islands and Johnstone Strait stretched ahead of us looking like a mill pond.It was so beautiful and already blows could be seen down at Cracroft Point. Two of the A36 brothers: A37 and A38 were foraging back and forth, lunge feeding at times, their A-Clan calls were wonderful to listen to as well their ecolocations via the hydrophone. A12 was reported further back in Blackfish Sound but ahead of the A30’s who were also en route. We traveled a little further east where we could see numerous blows and orcas heading to the west, the A23’s passed by, close to the West Cracroft Island shoreline, the other groups of A5’s (and possible A24’s) were seen at a distance, they were resting and then they turned and headed back east. Meanwhile the A30’s, with A30 and A38 in the lead had entered the Strait at Blakney Passage and were headed to the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve; A50 and her calves followed next and then A54 and her calves with a small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins interacting with them as they did yesterday. Dalls Porpoise were also active, feeding nearby. The A36’s were still foraging at Cracroft Point when we headed into Blackfish Sound.
Actually there are whales everywhere: the A30s are currently heading south in Blackney Pass following A12's lead (she cleared earlier). The A36s were off of CP (they came west after their bout at critical point at 8am) and the a4 group with the A5s are westbound from boat bay (after their rub earlier). Whew! and an humpback in Blackfish as well!
Helena
29 Jul 2009 11:05:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have gone in for a rub while the A36s and A12 are foraging off of Blinkhorn, east of Telegraph Cove.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 14:43:13 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Sounds like the A30s are having a bite in the Bight... lots of echolocation (& calls) close the the Critical Point hydrophone.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 19:00:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Beautiful A30 calls on Critical Point! The A30s (and A5s) finally did come a bit further west to around the Kaikash Creek area before turning back to the east. They are in front of Critical Point.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 19:15:24 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
CP reports that A46 is foraging in front of Cracroft Point. We have been listening to the A4s,A5s and the A30s at the rubbing beaches. Their calls are getting more distant now.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 20:59:18 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Not really that close yet, but we are hearing clear A36 calls once again in Johnstone Strait. CP reported an hour ago that the A36s with A12 were moving eastward midstrait. We believe, for now, that the A30s,A4s and A5s kept going eastward from their time at the Beaches.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 23:01:58 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Today was an exceptional day for viewing marine mammals in the area and it had to be again one of the warmest days of the summer. The fog was clearing as we neared the Stephenson Islands and Johnstone Strait stretched ahead of us looking like a mill pond.It was so beautiful and already blows could be seen down at Cracroft Point. Two of the A36 brothers: A37 and A38 were foraging back and forth, lunge feeding at times, their A-Clan calls were wonderful to listen to as well their ecolocations via the hydrophone. A12 was reported further back in Blackfish Sound but ahead of the A30’s who were also en route. We traveled a little further east where we could see numerous blows and orcas heading to the west, the A23’s passed by, close to the West Cracroft Island shoreline, the other groups of A5’s (and possible A24’s) were seen at a distance, they were resting and then they turned and headed back east. Meanwhile the A30’s, with A30 and A38 in the lead had entered the Strait at Blakney Passage and were headed to the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve; A50 and her calves followed next and then A54 and her calves with a small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins interacting with them as they did yesterday. Dalls Porpoise were also active, feeding nearby. The A36’s were still foraging at Cracroft Point when we headed into Blackfish Sound.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A30s arrived from the east, spending the day in the area
Distant calls audible.
We're starting to hear distant calls on the Rubbing Beach hydrophone, sounds like some of the orcas from the east are getting close to the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 10:31:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s came west this morning, past the Reserve, Kaikash Creek and now approaching the area opposite Weynton Pass entrance. The A36s were quite far west off Malcolm Point this morning and are apparently continuing west. The A5s and most likely the A24s are still east of Kelsey Bay.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 13:34:13 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s made a turn to the east off the Wastell Island (just east of Telegraph Cove) and made a wide turn over to the Hanson Island side. From there they continued east past the entrance to Blackney pas. They are now off the Cracroft Point area continuing eastward.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 16:03:39 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So .... just after posting the last note, there were calls on Flower Island,maybe the A36s.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 16:09:31 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Recently, both A38 and A39 were spending time foraging off of CP. The other A30 members are closer to Vancouver Island moving westward. We got a great report from the Mackays that A12 was just seen off of Black Bluff heading east by herself. This report came in after Stubbs island reported that the A36s (at least A32 and A37) turned west quickly away from Blackfish Sound.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 20:33:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
CP called in to say that A39 had disappeared into Blackney Pass at about 9:38pm. The rest of the A30s followed but not until the A36s made their presence known after arriving in Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. A group of dolphins became vocal in Blackney Pass just as the A30s disappeared up into Blackfish Sound. The A36s are still in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 22:28:16 PDT
Seasmoke reports
It was a beautiful afternoon when we set out on tour and one of the hottest days that we have encountered so far this summer. We headed east in Johnstone Strait and soon the orcas were in sight, the A30’s traveling to the west nearing Blinkhorn. A38 and A30 were in the lead, A39 was far over on the Hanson Island shore while A50 and A54, each traveling with their off-spring were close to the Vancouver Island shoreline. All were foraging and while our hydrophone was deployed, there were no vocals to be heard. Suddenly, A30 with A38 had made their turn and began traveling east together, A54 and calves turned next and then A50 and calves while A39 continued to forage a little longer to the west before turning back. A54 and calves made their way east crossing more towards the Hanson Island side of the Strait and closest to A39. A small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were present throughout our viewing of the orcas, darting back and forth and A54 ‘s calves at one point were seen interacting with them.
We're starting to hear distant calls on the Rubbing Beach hydrophone, sounds like some of the orcas from the east are getting close to the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 10:31:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s came west this morning, past the Reserve, Kaikash Creek and now approaching the area opposite Weynton Pass entrance. The A36s were quite far west off Malcolm Point this morning and are apparently continuing west. The A5s and most likely the A24s are still east of Kelsey Bay.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 13:34:13 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s made a turn to the east off the Wastell Island (just east of Telegraph Cove) and made a wide turn over to the Hanson Island side. From there they continued east past the entrance to Blackney pas. They are now off the Cracroft Point area continuing eastward.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 16:03:39 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So .... just after posting the last note, there were calls on Flower Island,maybe the A36s.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 16:09:31 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Recently, both A38 and A39 were spending time foraging off of CP. The other A30 members are closer to Vancouver Island moving westward. We got a great report from the Mackays that A12 was just seen off of Black Bluff heading east by herself. This report came in after Stubbs island reported that the A36s (at least A32 and A37) turned west quickly away from Blackfish Sound.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 20:33:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
CP called in to say that A39 had disappeared into Blackney Pass at about 9:38pm. The rest of the A30s followed but not until the A36s made their presence known after arriving in Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. A group of dolphins became vocal in Blackney Pass just as the A30s disappeared up into Blackfish Sound. The A36s are still in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
28 Jul 2009 22:28:16 PDT
Seasmoke reports
It was a beautiful afternoon when we set out on tour and one of the hottest days that we have encountered so far this summer. We headed east in Johnstone Strait and soon the orcas were in sight, the A30’s traveling to the west nearing Blinkhorn. A38 and A30 were in the lead, A39 was far over on the Hanson Island shore while A50 and A54, each traveling with their off-spring were close to the Vancouver Island shoreline. All were foraging and while our hydrophone was deployed, there were no vocals to be heard. Suddenly, A30 with A38 had made their turn and began traveling east together, A54 and calves turned next and then A50 and calves while A39 continued to forage a little longer to the west before turning back. A54 and calves made their way east crossing more towards the Hanson Island side of the Strait and closest to A39. A small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were present throughout our viewing of the orcas, darting back and forth and A54 ‘s calves at one point were seen interacting with them.
Monday, July 27, 2009
A30s left with A4s and A5s east to Kelsey Bay
Orcas near mics.
How lovely, the A5s are back! Calls are on Flower Island in Blackfish Sound. The whales are travelling into Blackney Pass.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 01:43:44 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Add A12 and A4 calls to that mix in Blackney Pass!
Helena
27 Jul 2009 02:00:49 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A5,A4 and A1 groups have moved into Johnstone Strait and are headed east.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 02:34:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
While the A34s (without A12) continue westward, we talked with Nick Templeman and they think they have the A5s,A30s and others near to Kelsey Bay.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 11:07:25 PDT
How lovely, the A5s are back! Calls are on Flower Island in Blackfish Sound. The whales are travelling into Blackney Pass.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 01:43:44 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Add A12 and A4 calls to that mix in Blackney Pass!
Helena
27 Jul 2009 02:00:49 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A5,A4 and A1 groups have moved into Johnstone Strait and are headed east.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 02:34:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
While the A34s (without A12) continue westward, we talked with Nick Templeman and they think they have the A5s,A30s and others near to Kelsey Bay.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 11:07:25 PDT
Sunday, July 26, 2009
A30s joined A36s and A12 and moved to the west
No orcas present.
Not sure we can broaden our impression of what happened overnight. Except for a small power interuption around 3am the night was mostly uneventful. We lost track of the A36s around 11:30pm. Blows were heard about an hour later in Blackney Pass but the conclusion was that it was a humpback. Dolphins were fairly active in Johnstone Strait around the same time.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 08:04:52 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Close echolocation near Robson Bight following a report that the A36s and A12 are heading west from the Boat Bay area. Dolphins were reported in Blackfish Sound earlier.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 12:05:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Not only are the A36s with A12 near Robson Bight but we are now picking up calls and echolocation in Blackfish Sound!
Helena
26 Jul 2009 13:18:54 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are headed south through Blackney Pass.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 13:57:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s when they entered Johnstone Strait went to the east,Robson Bight. The A36s and A12 seemed to hang back more to the west and now sound quite distant. The A30s, meanwhile, are on their way back west.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 19:01:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Actually, it sounds like all the groups are converging off the entrance to Blackney Pass.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 19:19:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Now the whales have gone off to the west.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 21:10:24 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Distant A-Clan orca calls had been reported as being heard out in the Queen Charlotte Strait near the White Cliff Islands and while several boats were looking and listening at various locations, the orcas could not been seen or their blows heard through the heavy fog. With a report that the A36 (three) brothers and A12 were heading west at Boat Bay, we headed in their direction through Blackfish Sound. The fog was still heavy behind us as we travelled and it was not until we neared Burnt Point that it began to disperse. We entered Johnstone Strait and into a beautiful clear and sunny day and headed in the direction of the western boundary of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. We sighted two orcas outside of the Reserve and watched as they made their way further west, A12 was in the lead. It was at Izumi Rock that we encountered and enjoyed the company of A12 and A37 foraging steadily together back and forth; A46 and A32 were further back inside the Reserve boundary. The viewing of A12 and A37 was simply beautiful, the light that was shining upon them at Izumi Rock and the trailing kelp forest was exquisite. A12 and A37 looked very much at home in the company of each other at the time of our viewing. It was reported that the A30’s, the pod that had been obscured from sight all morning by the heavy fog were at last sighted in Blackfish Sound approaching Flower Island.
Not sure we can broaden our impression of what happened overnight. Except for a small power interuption around 3am the night was mostly uneventful. We lost track of the A36s around 11:30pm. Blows were heard about an hour later in Blackney Pass but the conclusion was that it was a humpback. Dolphins were fairly active in Johnstone Strait around the same time.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 08:04:52 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Close echolocation near Robson Bight following a report that the A36s and A12 are heading west from the Boat Bay area. Dolphins were reported in Blackfish Sound earlier.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 12:05:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Not only are the A36s with A12 near Robson Bight but we are now picking up calls and echolocation in Blackfish Sound!
Helena
26 Jul 2009 13:18:54 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are headed south through Blackney Pass.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 13:57:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s when they entered Johnstone Strait went to the east,Robson Bight. The A36s and A12 seemed to hang back more to the west and now sound quite distant. The A30s, meanwhile, are on their way back west.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 19:01:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Actually, it sounds like all the groups are converging off the entrance to Blackney Pass.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 19:19:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Now the whales have gone off to the west.
Helena
26 Jul 2009 21:10:24 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Distant A-Clan orca calls had been reported as being heard out in the Queen Charlotte Strait near the White Cliff Islands and while several boats were looking and listening at various locations, the orcas could not been seen or their blows heard through the heavy fog. With a report that the A36 (three) brothers and A12 were heading west at Boat Bay, we headed in their direction through Blackfish Sound. The fog was still heavy behind us as we travelled and it was not until we neared Burnt Point that it began to disperse. We entered Johnstone Strait and into a beautiful clear and sunny day and headed in the direction of the western boundary of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. We sighted two orcas outside of the Reserve and watched as they made their way further west, A12 was in the lead. It was at Izumi Rock that we encountered and enjoyed the company of A12 and A37 foraging steadily together back and forth; A46 and A32 were further back inside the Reserve boundary. The viewing of A12 and A37 was simply beautiful, the light that was shining upon them at Izumi Rock and the trailing kelp forest was exquisite. A12 and A37 looked very much at home in the company of each other at the time of our viewing. It was reported that the A30’s, the pod that had been obscured from sight all morning by the heavy fog were at last sighted in Blackfish Sound approaching Flower Island.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
A30s returned from Nodales Channel in record time
Distant calls audible.
The A30s must be huffing and puffing. they have returned to the Ecological Reserve in record time! The A36s with A12 are waiting in Blackfish Sound after leaving Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass earlier.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 16:12:42 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are continuing west from the Beaches,meanwhile,the A36s were just calling off Blackfish Sound.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 17:03:19 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A very interesting turn of events. A12 left the A36s in Blackfish Sound and travelled to Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass by herself where the the A30s were travelling west past the entrance to Blackney Pass.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 19:48:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So this is what we think may have happened. A12 went south through Blackney Pass as the A30s travelled west up the Strait. They continued west and perhaps went out through Weynton Pass, exchanging places with the A36s who came back to Johnstone strait via Weynton. We have only heard the A36s as they moved east toward the entrance of Blackney Pass. What A12 has decided to do is uncertain at this point but perhaps she is still with the A36s. We never did hear the A30s on the "other" side (Blackfish Sound) so we will keep their whereabouts open for now. Interesting possibilities regardless.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 23:51:08 PDT
The A30s must be huffing and puffing. they have returned to the Ecological Reserve in record time! The A36s with A12 are waiting in Blackfish Sound after leaving Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass earlier.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 16:12:42 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are continuing west from the Beaches,meanwhile,the A36s were just calling off Blackfish Sound.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 17:03:19 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A very interesting turn of events. A12 left the A36s in Blackfish Sound and travelled to Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass by herself where the the A30s were travelling west past the entrance to Blackney Pass.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 19:48:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So this is what we think may have happened. A12 went south through Blackney Pass as the A30s travelled west up the Strait. They continued west and perhaps went out through Weynton Pass, exchanging places with the A36s who came back to Johnstone strait via Weynton. We have only heard the A36s as they moved east toward the entrance of Blackney Pass. What A12 has decided to do is uncertain at this point but perhaps she is still with the A36s. We never did hear the A30s on the "other" side (Blackfish Sound) so we will keep their whereabouts open for now. Interesting possibilities regardless.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 23:51:08 PDT
A30s in Nodales Channel
Hi Helena. Just a late update that the A-30s spent the day doing the Nodales Channel Shuffle from Sonora Pt. to Howe Island. Looks like they were getting some fish as we were watching and lots of celebrating. See if they head up tonight..Cheers
Haywire@c.r. bc
25 Jul 2009 00:39:41 PDT
Haywire@c.r. bc
25 Jul 2009 00:39:41 PDT
Thursday, July 23, 2009
A30s vocal in Johstone Strait
Orcas near mics.
A lot of calling and some movement have brought the A30s back eastward to the Ecological Reserve. The tide is in a strong flood
Helena
23 Jul 2009 03:38:26 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
New visitors! being brought in by an A1 group.
Helena
23 Jul 2009 05:46:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
I forgot to mention that it sounds like the Cs.
Helena
23 Jul 2009 05:51:05 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Today we encountered two groups of resident orcas heading east of Burnt Point in Blackfish Sound, they were the A30’s who were in the lead followed by the C10’s; both pods were favoring the Hanson Island shore and traveling slowly against a strong ebb current. As the groups neared the bottom of Hanson Island the A30’s stalled, were milling about and resting against the current while the C10’s moved ahead milling just at Cracroft Point allowing the A30’s to enter Johnstone Strait first. This is the first time for seeing the C10’s this summer so it was very exciting indeed. It has been confirmed by DFO that both C23 and C10 each have new calves. With both the pods in Johnstone Strait, they began heading to the east. The viewing was beautiful throughout and it was wonderful observing the dynamics between the two pods. There was a lot of interaction between family members with pectoral and tail slapping and spy-hopping being observed.
A lot of calling and some movement have brought the A30s back eastward to the Ecological Reserve. The tide is in a strong flood
Helena
23 Jul 2009 03:38:26 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
New visitors! being brought in by an A1 group.
Helena
23 Jul 2009 05:46:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
I forgot to mention that it sounds like the Cs.
Helena
23 Jul 2009 05:51:05 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Today we encountered two groups of resident orcas heading east of Burnt Point in Blackfish Sound, they were the A30’s who were in the lead followed by the C10’s; both pods were favoring the Hanson Island shore and traveling slowly against a strong ebb current. As the groups neared the bottom of Hanson Island the A30’s stalled, were milling about and resting against the current while the C10’s moved ahead milling just at Cracroft Point allowing the A30’s to enter Johnstone Strait first. This is the first time for seeing the C10’s this summer so it was very exciting indeed. It has been confirmed by DFO that both C23 and C10 each have new calves. With both the pods in Johnstone Strait, they began heading to the east. The viewing was beautiful throughout and it was wonderful observing the dynamics between the two pods. There was a lot of interaction between family members with pectoral and tail slapping and spy-hopping being observed.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Distant calls audible.
We think the A36s turned west toward Cracroft Point to "meet" up with the incoming whales. After "greeting" the groups have turned east back toward the Bight. They are past Critical point.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 12:01:34 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We're hearing rubbing sounds & calls on the rubbing beach hydrophone.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 12:43:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So...the meet and greet must have resulted in the A36s heading west and the A30s heading east to the beaches and beyond. The question for the day is where are the A34s who were definitely seen earlier off Donegal Head. There was a report that the "Rs" were in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 13:33:48 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Sounds like the A30s have made it back to Robson Bight!
Helena
22 Jul 2009 22:24:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Sorry the last note was a bit confusing. The A36s and A12 were in Blackfish Sound when they first called but then the A30s quickly approached Critical Point in Robson Bight from the east.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 22:38:44 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Orcas were reported traveling in from Donegal Head and were sighted off Bold Head, but ahead of this a large Minke Whale was sighted. The orcas were identified as being the A30’s and they were east bound in Blackfish Sound. A39 was traveling closest to the Hanson Island shore while the A54’s were ahead of him; A30 and A38 were seen together over on the Swanson Island shore and the A50’s parallel to them. While stopping to hoist our main sail and with the engine off, we listened to their beautiful A-Clan calls via the hydrophone. Upon entering Johnstone Strait some of the A30’s foraged briefly but all were seen moving swiftly to the east.
We think the A36s turned west toward Cracroft Point to "meet" up with the incoming whales. After "greeting" the groups have turned east back toward the Bight. They are past Critical point.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 12:01:34 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We're hearing rubbing sounds & calls on the rubbing beach hydrophone.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 12:43:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So...the meet and greet must have resulted in the A36s heading west and the A30s heading east to the beaches and beyond. The question for the day is where are the A34s who were definitely seen earlier off Donegal Head. There was a report that the "Rs" were in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 13:33:48 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Sounds like the A30s have made it back to Robson Bight!
Helena
22 Jul 2009 22:24:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Sorry the last note was a bit confusing. The A36s and A12 were in Blackfish Sound when they first called but then the A30s quickly approached Critical Point in Robson Bight from the east.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 22:38:44 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Orcas were reported traveling in from Donegal Head and were sighted off Bold Head, but ahead of this a large Minke Whale was sighted. The orcas were identified as being the A30’s and they were east bound in Blackfish Sound. A39 was traveling closest to the Hanson Island shore while the A54’s were ahead of him; A30 and A38 were seen together over on the Swanson Island shore and the A50’s parallel to them. While stopping to hoist our main sail and with the engine off, we listened to their beautiful A-Clan calls via the hydrophone. Upon entering Johnstone Strait some of the A30’s foraged briefly but all were seen moving swiftly to the east.
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