No calls but orcas nearby
Heard great news from Jared Towers tonight! He saw A12 with the A36s near Scarlett Point today. This is not far from Port Hardy. Perhaps, just maybe they will be kind enough to "drop down" our way in the near future. So amazing to think this bond between these whales has lasted so long.
Helena
04 Dec 2009 22:27:18 PST
Friday, December 04, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
She came home
At 68 years of age, the matriarch A12 (Scimitar) is one of two oldest female orcas in British Columbia’s Northern Resident community. Recently, with the death of her 38 year old son Nimpkish, who had been Scimitar’s constant companion for many years, she has provided us with a perfect example of the glue the binds orca society together.
Scimitar’s name reflects the shape of her dorsal fin, which makes her easy to identify at a glance. Her family, “the A12s” has been well known to orca watchers since the 1970s, when Scimitar was accompanied by a young family of three - two sons, one already an adult (A31, Pulteney, b. 1959) another still a youngster (A33, Nimpkish, b. 1971), and a female baby (A34, Simoom, b. 1975). In 1990, Simoom’s first baby was born and Scimitar became a grandmother. Simoom went on to become a prolific mum, having four more babies over the next 15 years, one of whom, A74 (Stormy) died in 2006. In 2005, at age 12, Simoom’s eldest daughter A62 (Echo) had her first baby, making Scimitar a great granny. This year, two more grandkids have been added, one by Echo and another by Simoom’s second daughter, A67 (Eclipse), her first baby.
As Simoom’s family grew, Scimitar’s life changed. Pulteney died in early 1997, just over year after an incident in which Simoom was struck by a speeding boat while nursing. Though neither Simoom nor Echo were seriously injured, Pulteney was so affected by what had happened to his sister that he stranded in shallow waters that evening. Fortunately, he managed to escape his predicament, but the trauma may have contributed to his death soon afterwards. In the 18 years that followed, Scimitar and Nimpkish became incredibly close. Whenever seen in recent years, they have been swimming side by side, quite often separately from Simoom’s family. Sadly, Nimpkish died recently, and when Scimitar was sighted on June 19th in British Columbia’s central coast, she was alone. Two weeks later, Simoom brought her to the edge of the “core area”, and then left. When first seen on July 21st, Scimitar was floating at the surface; as this can be a sign of weakness in older orcas, we were concerned for her. However, over the next 8 days, when she was the only orca in the area, Scimitar behaved so normally & energetically – traveling, foraging, having a rub – that our concerns were replaced by curiosity about what would happen next.
When Tsitika (A30) and her family arrived on July 4th, Scimitar immediately joined them. She seemed to especially enjoy the company of Tsitika’s huge sons, Blackney and Pointer. Then, when the three A36 brothers arrived on July 17th, Scimitar joined them. Simoom popped in for a brief visit on July 21st, as if checking up on mum, and then again on July 27th. This time, Scimitar left with Simoom, but she came back by herself a day later and rejoined the 3 brothers, making us think she felt most comfortable in the company of adult males. Over a week passed before Simoom’s next visit, and this time, when she left, Scimitar went with her, and stayed. Finally, on August 13th, Simoom and Scimitar came back together, side by side ahead of Simoom’s family, and they have remained together since, enjoying each other’s company once again.
It now seems clear that Scimitar has adjusted to the loss of Nimpkish, who was her closest companion for a very long time, and once again feels comfortable among the “A12” family that bears her name. In achieving that level of comfort, it is also clear that Scimitar was assisted by other families in her community. In resolving her situation, which probably amounted to a life crisis, Scimitar found her way home.
Scimitar’s name reflects the shape of her dorsal fin, which makes her easy to identify at a glance. Her family, “the A12s” has been well known to orca watchers since the 1970s, when Scimitar was accompanied by a young family of three - two sons, one already an adult (A31, Pulteney, b. 1959) another still a youngster (A33, Nimpkish, b. 1971), and a female baby (A34, Simoom, b. 1975). In 1990, Simoom’s first baby was born and Scimitar became a grandmother. Simoom went on to become a prolific mum, having four more babies over the next 15 years, one of whom, A74 (Stormy) died in 2006. In 2005, at age 12, Simoom’s eldest daughter A62 (Echo) had her first baby, making Scimitar a great granny. This year, two more grandkids have been added, one by Echo and another by Simoom’s second daughter, A67 (Eclipse), her first baby.
As Simoom’s family grew, Scimitar’s life changed. Pulteney died in early 1997, just over year after an incident in which Simoom was struck by a speeding boat while nursing. Though neither Simoom nor Echo were seriously injured, Pulteney was so affected by what had happened to his sister that he stranded in shallow waters that evening. Fortunately, he managed to escape his predicament, but the trauma may have contributed to his death soon afterwards. In the 18 years that followed, Scimitar and Nimpkish became incredibly close. Whenever seen in recent years, they have been swimming side by side, quite often separately from Simoom’s family. Sadly, Nimpkish died recently, and when Scimitar was sighted on June 19th in British Columbia’s central coast, she was alone. Two weeks later, Simoom brought her to the edge of the “core area”, and then left. When first seen on July 21st, Scimitar was floating at the surface; as this can be a sign of weakness in older orcas, we were concerned for her. However, over the next 8 days, when she was the only orca in the area, Scimitar behaved so normally & energetically – traveling, foraging, having a rub – that our concerns were replaced by curiosity about what would happen next.
When Tsitika (A30) and her family arrived on July 4th, Scimitar immediately joined them. She seemed to especially enjoy the company of Tsitika’s huge sons, Blackney and Pointer. Then, when the three A36 brothers arrived on July 17th, Scimitar joined them. Simoom popped in for a brief visit on July 21st, as if checking up on mum, and then again on July 27th. This time, Scimitar left with Simoom, but she came back by herself a day later and rejoined the 3 brothers, making us think she felt most comfortable in the company of adult males. Over a week passed before Simoom’s next visit, and this time, when she left, Scimitar went with her, and stayed. Finally, on August 13th, Simoom and Scimitar came back together, side by side ahead of Simoom’s family, and they have remained together since, enjoying each other’s company once again.
It now seems clear that Scimitar has adjusted to the loss of Nimpkish, who was her closest companion for a very long time, and once again feels comfortable among the “A12” family that bears her name. In achieving that level of comfort, it is also clear that Scimitar was assisted by other families in her community. In resolving her situation, which probably amounted to a life crisis, Scimitar found her way home.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
A12s heading west in JS
No orcas present.
Sorry, the streaming is gone again for a bit while we sort out new IP addresses. Since yesterday, there is not much to report except around 5pm a group of at least 7 orcas passed CP on their way to the east. These whales were reported to have come in via Weynton Pass although there is some confusion as visual IDs were not available and the whales were not vocal. They passed on to Boat bay and then started to cross over toward the east end of the Reserve. As far as we know the I15s were eastbound on the Vancouver Island shore during this time. They also got to the beaches and from there we thinks they may have carried on to the east. But this is also not 100% clear as there were no calls to give additional clues after 8:08pm. We are waiting to see how the day unfolds. The A36s were the last vocal whales in Blackfish Sound yesterday evening (8pm) and they may still not be too far away as they seemed to not be entirely committed to leaving this area. There was a report a short while ago of 2 whales off of Lizard Point in Queen Charlotte Sound. Dolphins continue to tour the area and can be heard from time to time.
Helena
26 Aug 2009 09:47:37 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
We've been listening to echolocation of the Critical Point hydrophone, and Marie at the Cliff reports a group of orcas in the Robson Bight estuary, heading west. A short whle ago, we heard distant G clan calls on CrPt, so it's possible the I15s (or another G clan group) are heading back from the east in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
26 Aug 2009 13:16:56 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A4s, A5s, A12s are all heading west past Robson Bight, possibly to join up with the I15s, who have been lazing around off (& inside) Blackney Pass for the past several hours.
Helena
26 Aug 2009 17:45:50 PDT
Orcas near mics.
A lot has been happening. We think the A12s,A35s and at least some of the A5s went west in Johnstone Strait and out htrough weynton Pass. We picked them up on the "other" side, at the top of Blackfish Sound just as the A30s were moving through Blackney Pass to the north and into Blackfish Sound. We could still hear an A4 group in the Strait and then traveling through Blackney Pass too. This sounded like the A11,A56 and A13's group. We are not sure what happened to the I15s after they poked their noses into Blackney Pass this afternoon. There were just a few calls before 6pm and then we lost track. Before the evening is over hopefully we will be able to account for all the groups.
Helena
26 Aug 2009 23:18:18 PDT
Sorry, the streaming is gone again for a bit while we sort out new IP addresses. Since yesterday, there is not much to report except around 5pm a group of at least 7 orcas passed CP on their way to the east. These whales were reported to have come in via Weynton Pass although there is some confusion as visual IDs were not available and the whales were not vocal. They passed on to Boat bay and then started to cross over toward the east end of the Reserve. As far as we know the I15s were eastbound on the Vancouver Island shore during this time. They also got to the beaches and from there we thinks they may have carried on to the east. But this is also not 100% clear as there were no calls to give additional clues after 8:08pm. We are waiting to see how the day unfolds. The A36s were the last vocal whales in Blackfish Sound yesterday evening (8pm) and they may still not be too far away as they seemed to not be entirely committed to leaving this area. There was a report a short while ago of 2 whales off of Lizard Point in Queen Charlotte Sound. Dolphins continue to tour the area and can be heard from time to time.
Helena
26 Aug 2009 09:47:37 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
We've been listening to echolocation of the Critical Point hydrophone, and Marie at the Cliff reports a group of orcas in the Robson Bight estuary, heading west. A short whle ago, we heard distant G clan calls on CrPt, so it's possible the I15s (or another G clan group) are heading back from the east in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
26 Aug 2009 13:16:56 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A4s, A5s, A12s are all heading west past Robson Bight, possibly to join up with the I15s, who have been lazing around off (& inside) Blackney Pass for the past several hours.
Helena
26 Aug 2009 17:45:50 PDT
Orcas near mics.
A lot has been happening. We think the A12s,A35s and at least some of the A5s went west in Johnstone Strait and out htrough weynton Pass. We picked them up on the "other" side, at the top of Blackfish Sound just as the A30s were moving through Blackney Pass to the north and into Blackfish Sound. We could still hear an A4 group in the Strait and then traveling through Blackney Pass too. This sounded like the A11,A56 and A13's group. We are not sure what happened to the I15s after they poked their noses into Blackney Pass this afternoon. There were just a few calls before 6pm and then we lost track. Before the evening is over hopefully we will be able to account for all the groups.
Helena
26 Aug 2009 23:18:18 PDT
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Large crowd!
Multiple pod calls audible.
The very large "crowd" that was reported being in Queen Charlotte Strait yesterday, is beginning to arrive. This happens several hours after the A8s rushed out of Blackfish Sound. So far we have heard, the A30s, A4s,A5s and I15s.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 03:50:14 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Moving in... using every available route. We now are hearing Bs and possibly I31 calls already in Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass as the A4s move through Blackney on their way to the Strait as well. Getting very crowded!
Helena
25 Aug 2009 04:27:06 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Some of the orcas have reached the rubbing beaches, others are in Robson Bight, others are headed east past Alert Bay, others are still coming. The movemenr is generally eastward.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 08:37:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Boy, this is busy! First a probable correction is needed. the Bs may not be there. It was a mistake of hearing the word "Bs" for "Ds" in the early morning. What is clear is that the A1s, A4s, and A5s came into Johnstone Strait along with the I15s and I31s between 4 and 5am. The Ds never seemed to come very far to the east so we are not sure where they are now. There is a sleepy group west bound between Alert Bay and Haddington Island on the Vancouver Island pointed toward Malcolm Island. This may be the C6s. There is another large group (whales everywhere today) between Cormorant Island and Malcolm Island heading toward Sointula. The Johnstone Strait whales are west bound from the beaches to Robson Bight spread out from the Cracroft Island shore to Vancouver Island. Whew! hang on to your hats!
Helena
25 Aug 2009 09:59:39 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We now know a bit more of today's distribution: the C6s and G25s are the westbound,sleepy group headed to haddington island; the Ds (all) and I22/39 are the sointula group;the i33s just went by the Cliff a short while ago following the A36s. It is not clear where the the rest of the As and I15s are at the moment.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 10:44:42 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
the orca shuffle continues: westbound in the Strait are the A30s, A36s,I31s and the I15s. They are spread out from Little Kaikash (west of CP) back to Izumi Rock (the A30s,I15s and maybe part of the I31s along the Vacouver Island side, while the A36s and I33s are on the Cracroft Island side). Eastbound are most likely the A4s,A5s and A12s ,now past the Eve River
Helena
25 Aug 2009 11:12:56 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I33s just went north through Blackney Pass and are now westbound in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 12:12:16 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Here is another correction. The A30s are probably back with their regular company heading east at Hickey Point. (A12s,A4s,A5s and A30s). the two males seen on the Vancouver Island side ahead of the I15s earlier may have been the rest of the I31s (the I33s went north through Blackney Pass). the A36s ended up going through Weynton pass and we heard them as they crossed the top end of Blackfish Sound following the I33s out to the west. The I15s are currently off the entrance to Weynton pass deciding on their next move. The I31s may be with them. Complicated day to say the least.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 14:32:32 PDT
The very large "crowd" that was reported being in Queen Charlotte Strait yesterday, is beginning to arrive. This happens several hours after the A8s rushed out of Blackfish Sound. So far we have heard, the A30s, A4s,A5s and I15s.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 03:50:14 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Moving in... using every available route. We now are hearing Bs and possibly I31 calls already in Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass as the A4s move through Blackney on their way to the Strait as well. Getting very crowded!
Helena
25 Aug 2009 04:27:06 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Some of the orcas have reached the rubbing beaches, others are in Robson Bight, others are headed east past Alert Bay, others are still coming. The movemenr is generally eastward.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 08:37:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Boy, this is busy! First a probable correction is needed. the Bs may not be there. It was a mistake of hearing the word "Bs" for "Ds" in the early morning. What is clear is that the A1s, A4s, and A5s came into Johnstone Strait along with the I15s and I31s between 4 and 5am. The Ds never seemed to come very far to the east so we are not sure where they are now. There is a sleepy group west bound between Alert Bay and Haddington Island on the Vancouver Island pointed toward Malcolm Island. This may be the C6s. There is another large group (whales everywhere today) between Cormorant Island and Malcolm Island heading toward Sointula. The Johnstone Strait whales are west bound from the beaches to Robson Bight spread out from the Cracroft Island shore to Vancouver Island. Whew! hang on to your hats!
Helena
25 Aug 2009 09:59:39 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We now know a bit more of today's distribution: the C6s and G25s are the westbound,sleepy group headed to haddington island; the Ds (all) and I22/39 are the sointula group;the i33s just went by the Cliff a short while ago following the A36s. It is not clear where the the rest of the As and I15s are at the moment.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 10:44:42 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
the orca shuffle continues: westbound in the Strait are the A30s, A36s,I31s and the I15s. They are spread out from Little Kaikash (west of CP) back to Izumi Rock (the A30s,I15s and maybe part of the I31s along the Vacouver Island side, while the A36s and I33s are on the Cracroft Island side). Eastbound are most likely the A4s,A5s and A12s ,now past the Eve River
Helena
25 Aug 2009 11:12:56 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I33s just went north through Blackney Pass and are now westbound in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 12:12:16 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Here is another correction. The A30s are probably back with their regular company heading east at Hickey Point. (A12s,A4s,A5s and A30s). the two males seen on the Vancouver Island side ahead of the I15s earlier may have been the rest of the I31s (the I33s went north through Blackney Pass). the A36s ended up going through Weynton pass and we heard them as they crossed the top end of Blackfish Sound following the I33s out to the west. The I15s are currently off the entrance to Weynton pass deciding on their next move. The I31s may be with them. Complicated day to say the least.
Helena
25 Aug 2009 14:32:32 PDT
Monday, August 24, 2009
A12s left to the north throug Blackney Pass
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s, A4s & A5s are all heading north through Blackney Pass.
Helena
24 Aug 2009 00:15:53 PDT
No orcas present.
Good news! The audio streaming is running again. Early this morning, the calls from the groups who had passed through Blackney Pass and Blackfish Sound faded away by 2:30am. later, we heard close echo location and a couple of calls near to Robson Bight from 6:53 to 6:56am. There was some foraging, echo location, crunching,a gulp and water splashes. Sounded yummy! All has been quiet since except for a single possible rub a while after the fishing off of Critical Point.
Helena
24 Aug 2009 09:28:39 PDT
The A12s, A4s & A5s are all heading north through Blackney Pass.
Helena
24 Aug 2009 00:15:53 PDT
No orcas present.
Good news! The audio streaming is running again. Early this morning, the calls from the groups who had passed through Blackney Pass and Blackfish Sound faded away by 2:30am. later, we heard close echo location and a couple of calls near to Robson Bight from 6:53 to 6:56am. There was some foraging, echo location, crunching,a gulp and water splashes. Sounded yummy! All has been quiet since except for a single possible rub a while after the fishing off of Critical Point.
Helena
24 Aug 2009 09:28:39 PDT
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Multiple pod calls audible.
We still are not able to stream but may have located the problem BUT we can post comments. The scene pretty much leaves off from the location of the last post but a lot has happened since. Starting with now, the A4s (all of them) , the A12s (all of them) and the A5s are making their way back west opposite Robson Bight spread out between both shores, Vancouver Island and Cracroft Island. The movement west began this morning from Kelsey Bay. The A30s are to the west after separating yesterday from the larger group. They spent most of yesterday in Queen Charlotte Strait after saying good-bye to the gang who then went east slowly and silently for the rest of the day after the A30s went north via Blackney Pass and west in Blackfish Sound. Around 3:40 pm the A30s turned back east from Bere Point and eventually made their way to Blackfish Sound just after 10pm. They ventured slightly into Blackney but by 11:16pm they were on their way west through Blackfish Sound and by 11:36pm we lost track of them. By 4pm yesterday the A4s and A5s were well on their way past the Adam River on their way to meet up with the A12s who had spent their day in the far east.
Helena
23 Aug 2009 14:36:32 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Not too long ago, a small group (5) of transients passed through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. This group was first spotted mid strait off of CP just after 3pm. These whales disappeared in the direction of the entrance to Blackney Pass but did not show up until more than an hour later. it looked like (from the photos) that it may have been the T137s plus 2 others. Meanwhile, the A35s passed CP at 4:44pm while the A23s,A25s and A28 were reported off the Tsitika River Estuary at 5:19pm. The A8s in company with the A12s and A24s were probably continuing west along the Vancouver Island shore parallel to the A35s.
Helena
23 Aug 2009 17:55:07 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
These whales ae a bit difficult to tack when they don't oblige by making vocalisations as is the case tonight. Probably, they turned east into the ebbing tide and fell asleep.Their progress back east has been very ,very slow and as night fell they were still west of CP. Jim Borrowman managed to get out to the transients and confirmed the T137s and identified T36A and T36A1 as the travelling companions. Apparently, they killed a small sea lion off of Bold Head in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
23 Aug 2009 22:49:05 PDT
We still are not able to stream but may have located the problem BUT we can post comments. The scene pretty much leaves off from the location of the last post but a lot has happened since. Starting with now, the A4s (all of them) , the A12s (all of them) and the A5s are making their way back west opposite Robson Bight spread out between both shores, Vancouver Island and Cracroft Island. The movement west began this morning from Kelsey Bay. The A30s are to the west after separating yesterday from the larger group. They spent most of yesterday in Queen Charlotte Strait after saying good-bye to the gang who then went east slowly and silently for the rest of the day after the A30s went north via Blackney Pass and west in Blackfish Sound. Around 3:40 pm the A30s turned back east from Bere Point and eventually made their way to Blackfish Sound just after 10pm. They ventured slightly into Blackney but by 11:16pm they were on their way west through Blackfish Sound and by 11:36pm we lost track of them. By 4pm yesterday the A4s and A5s were well on their way past the Adam River on their way to meet up with the A12s who had spent their day in the far east.
Helena
23 Aug 2009 14:36:32 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Not too long ago, a small group (5) of transients passed through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. This group was first spotted mid strait off of CP just after 3pm. These whales disappeared in the direction of the entrance to Blackney Pass but did not show up until more than an hour later. it looked like (from the photos) that it may have been the T137s plus 2 others. Meanwhile, the A35s passed CP at 4:44pm while the A23s,A25s and A28 were reported off the Tsitika River Estuary at 5:19pm. The A8s in company with the A12s and A24s were probably continuing west along the Vancouver Island shore parallel to the A35s.
Helena
23 Aug 2009 17:55:07 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
These whales ae a bit difficult to tack when they don't oblige by making vocalisations as is the case tonight. Probably, they turned east into the ebbing tide and fell asleep.Their progress back east has been very ,very slow and as night fell they were still west of CP. Jim Borrowman managed to get out to the transients and confirmed the T137s and identified T36A and T36A1 as the travelling companions. Apparently, they killed a small sea lion off of Bold Head in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
23 Aug 2009 22:49:05 PDT
Thursday, August 20, 2009
No orcas present.
A couple of events; we are still not able to stream audio; the A24s made a "quick' jaunt back to Critical Point at 4:35am and then returned to the Beaches for a rub at 6am; a large group of dolphins passed the Lab headed north at 6;30am.
Helena
20 Aug 2009 07:55:20 PDT
No orcas present.
All the regular groups plus the A12s are far to the east today but generally heading back west, with the A24s in the lead, and the A12s at the back of the parade. Also, a report of whales in the Blunden Harbour area last night.
Helena
20 Aug 2009 12:22:42 PDT
No orcas present.
Sorry, the last report said that the whales were heading west but actually they were going east with the current. Still far to the east, quiet this direction so far.
Helena
20 Aug 2009 14:36:05 PDT
A couple of events; we are still not able to stream audio; the A24s made a "quick' jaunt back to Critical Point at 4:35am and then returned to the Beaches for a rub at 6am; a large group of dolphins passed the Lab headed north at 6;30am.
Helena
20 Aug 2009 07:55:20 PDT
No orcas present.
All the regular groups plus the A12s are far to the east today but generally heading back west, with the A24s in the lead, and the A12s at the back of the parade. Also, a report of whales in the Blunden Harbour area last night.
Helena
20 Aug 2009 12:22:42 PDT
No orcas present.
Sorry, the last report said that the whales were heading west but actually they were going east with the current. Still far to the east, quiet this direction so far.
Helena
20 Aug 2009 14:36:05 PDT
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
A12s are back in the area
Distant calls audible.
Here is a chance to catch up. The internet service went down during the night - a problem outside of our network. Around 3am, the A30s, A24S,and A5s returned from the east. By 4am they were off Critical Point. For the next two hours, they moved around off the area opposite Robson Bight and Boat Bay, eventually heading back to the east. Later, in the very foggy morning light, a group transients (possibly the T18s) came west in the Strait and into Blackney Pass. While they cleared north at 11:40am, the A12s headed south into Blackney Pass. They had been preceded by a group of 100 Pacific Whitesided dolphins who reached the Strait by 11:34am. except for a few generic A1 calls in Blackfish Sound, the A12s travelled to the Strait silently. They are off Robson Bight now, still quiet but the a30s,A24s and the A5s are on their way back to the east end of the Reserve. A meeting is about to happen soon.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 14:05:48 PDT
Distant calls audible.
First of all: audio streaming seems to be having difficulties. We are not sure of the cause. Please be patient. Between 3 and 4pm the A23s (silent) and the A24s (vocal) and then the A25s (vocal too) passed CP headed to the west. The A30s are coming along the Vancouver Island shore headed west as well but a bit further back from the others. The A12s kept going east and the A8s haven not been accounted for yet today. The transients ended up in front of Alert Bay after passing us before noon this morning. There is also a report of a large group heading east from Port Hardy.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 17:09:20 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s,in particular A39, were vocal for a short while as the whales negotiated a turn to the east. During the turn the A30s shifted direction mid strait off the entrance to Blackney Pass. The other groups then moved eastward after getting as far as Blinkhorn. The A12s at last report kept going east from the Beaches, passing the A30s,who were headed west at the time, off Strider Beach.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 18:33:58 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Still do not know why the audio link is down. but we can tell you that some of the whales (not yet identified) are at the beaches and the A4s are offshore of Robson Bight.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 21:07:13 PDT
No orcas present.
The A12s turned up at the beaches . It is not 100% clear if the A12s approached the Beaches from the east or the west. They had been seen continuing east past the A30s but it was possible that this was just so they could follow the parade to the west. CP was convinced that they got at least as far as Kaikash before being noticed as an unidentified group heading east. The numbers just seemed right. Regardless, all the groups have moved east beyond the Reserve now and this little corner of the ocean is quiet for the moment.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 23:22:58 PDT
No orcas present.
I forgot to mention that the A12s were at the Beaches until around 9:28pm and the last distant multi-group calls were at 10:54pm when we believe the whales continued eastward.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 23:31:19 PDT
Here is a chance to catch up. The internet service went down during the night - a problem outside of our network. Around 3am, the A30s, A24S,and A5s returned from the east. By 4am they were off Critical Point. For the next two hours, they moved around off the area opposite Robson Bight and Boat Bay, eventually heading back to the east. Later, in the very foggy morning light, a group transients (possibly the T18s) came west in the Strait and into Blackney Pass. While they cleared north at 11:40am, the A12s headed south into Blackney Pass. They had been preceded by a group of 100 Pacific Whitesided dolphins who reached the Strait by 11:34am. except for a few generic A1 calls in Blackfish Sound, the A12s travelled to the Strait silently. They are off Robson Bight now, still quiet but the a30s,A24s and the A5s are on their way back to the east end of the Reserve. A meeting is about to happen soon.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 14:05:48 PDT
Distant calls audible.
First of all: audio streaming seems to be having difficulties. We are not sure of the cause. Please be patient. Between 3 and 4pm the A23s (silent) and the A24s (vocal) and then the A25s (vocal too) passed CP headed to the west. The A30s are coming along the Vancouver Island shore headed west as well but a bit further back from the others. The A12s kept going east and the A8s haven not been accounted for yet today. The transients ended up in front of Alert Bay after passing us before noon this morning. There is also a report of a large group heading east from Port Hardy.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 17:09:20 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s,in particular A39, were vocal for a short while as the whales negotiated a turn to the east. During the turn the A30s shifted direction mid strait off the entrance to Blackney Pass. The other groups then moved eastward after getting as far as Blinkhorn. The A12s at last report kept going east from the Beaches, passing the A30s,who were headed west at the time, off Strider Beach.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 18:33:58 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Still do not know why the audio link is down. but we can tell you that some of the whales (not yet identified) are at the beaches and the A4s are offshore of Robson Bight.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 21:07:13 PDT
No orcas present.
The A12s turned up at the beaches . It is not 100% clear if the A12s approached the Beaches from the east or the west. They had been seen continuing east past the A30s but it was possible that this was just so they could follow the parade to the west. CP was convinced that they got at least as far as Kaikash before being noticed as an unidentified group heading east. The numbers just seemed right. Regardless, all the groups have moved east beyond the Reserve now and this little corner of the ocean is quiet for the moment.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 23:22:58 PDT
No orcas present.
I forgot to mention that the A12s were at the Beaches until around 9:28pm and the last distant multi-group calls were at 10:54pm when we believe the whales continued eastward.
Helena
19 Aug 2009 23:31:19 PDT
Friday, August 14, 2009
A12s and A36s went north
No orcas present.
It was pretty "quiet" last night after the A12s and A36s went north through Blackney Pass. Then at 3am, the A5s came back from the east to the Rubbing Beaches. Their rub began at 3:20 and lasted until 3:31am. The A24s and the A30s were heard too but they were further off shore. Everything then shifted to the west and by 3:48am they were opposite Robson Bight. At the change of tide (to the flood) the calls from all three groups became more frequent. Occasionally, there was faint echo location. Just after 6am, the calls were very distant and ended soon afterward.
Helena
14 Aug 2009 08:08:53 PDT
It was pretty "quiet" last night after the A12s and A36s went north through Blackney Pass. Then at 3am, the A5s came back from the east to the Rubbing Beaches. Their rub began at 3:20 and lasted until 3:31am. The A24s and the A30s were heard too but they were further off shore. Everything then shifted to the west and by 3:48am they were opposite Robson Bight. At the change of tide (to the flood) the calls from all three groups became more frequent. Occasionally, there was faint echo location. Just after 6am, the calls were very distant and ended soon afterward.
Helena
14 Aug 2009 08:08:53 PDT
Thursday, August 13, 2009
A12 and A34s reunited
Distant calls audible.
Sorry, the internet on the North Island was down yesterday afternoon & evening, so lets start with what is happening now. We are hearing distant resting calls in Johnstone Strait and despite the fog there was a report at 7:30am from Norm on the Western Moon that there were 2 groups heading west from Blinkhorn. At the same time, the Tyee reported a large group of whales spread out off Lizard Point & heading east. Possibly, these are newcomers! During the night: from 7pm to 8pm we listened as the A30s, A24s and A5s approached and passed Critical Point on their way to the Beaches. From 8:11pm to 8:42, the A5s, A30s and A24s stayed off the east end of the Reserve, enjoying a rub from 8:16pm to 8:26pm. By 10:18pm these groups, led by the A5s and A30s, were passing Robson Bight to the west. After midnight, they turned and once again passed the Bight, just before 2am. It was then back to the beaches for a rub starting at 2:37am. The close calls there ended around 3am, and then it was off to the Bight once again. The A30s arrived there first by 4:10am, with the A24s and A5s lingering further east till 5:04am. After that, there was a general movement west with the A30s remaining close to Robson Bight until 5:30am. The distant westbound calls dropped off by 6:14am and picked up again at 7:50am. By this time the groups were off Blinkhorn as reported. Very foggy out there this morning! Helena
Helena
13 Aug 2009 08:49:42 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
These A1 calls and echo location are on Flower island in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
13 Aug 2009 10:30:23 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We had the nice surprise of seeing the A34s come through Blackney Pass. They were in Blackfish Sound earlier with the A36s. The A36s have not yet come "down". As the A34s entered Johnstone Strait, the resting A30s,A24s and A5s turned quickly next to the Pig Ranch on Cracroft Island (east of the Sophia Islands) and started west to meet the incoming whales. A34 and A12 were a pair, well ahead, of the rest of their group as they came through Blackney Pass. This was a touching picture,for sure.
Helena
13 Aug 2009 12:18:19 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
This has been a great multi-group (lots of A12/34 calls especially) rub!
Helena
13 Aug 2009 16:02:00 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
the A30s,A24s and the A5s are going east, now past Boat Bay, all in their respective groups, resting. The A12s are headed west toward Cracroft Point. When the whales went past Boat Bay, Marie, said that A39,A71,A28 and the A54s formed an interesting line but then turned back to Swaine Point to meet up and fold into their own groups and then carried on travelling east.
Helena
13 Aug 2009 19:46:35 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A12s have just passed north through Blackney Pass with the A36s following (very vocal!).
Helena
13 Aug 2009 21:42:16 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Heading out this afternoon the orcas who were west in Johnstone Strait earlier in the day had turned back and were heading east which is very typical of the pattern that they had been displaying in their movement in the Strait all week long. The pods included the incoming A34’s (A12’s daughter and her family, as well A12 was travelling with them), A30’s, A23’s, A25’s, A8’s and the A24’s. Meanwhile, the A36’s (brothers three) who had been in Blackfish Sound earlier in the morning had disappeared to the west with no sighting of them reported after this. With this in mind we headed to the east as well, hoping that the orcas would turn back as we travelled. They had been moving at a steady pace but then they stalled and as we neared the Ecological Reserve we saw them as they made their way, cutting across the Strait to the rubbing beaches. Keeping outside of the Reserve boundary passengers could only watch from the distance, A39 was foraging intensely, already making his way back to the west and was seen foraging inside the estuary of the Reserve.
Sorry, the internet on the North Island was down yesterday afternoon & evening, so lets start with what is happening now. We are hearing distant resting calls in Johnstone Strait and despite the fog there was a report at 7:30am from Norm on the Western Moon that there were 2 groups heading west from Blinkhorn. At the same time, the Tyee reported a large group of whales spread out off Lizard Point & heading east. Possibly, these are newcomers! During the night: from 7pm to 8pm we listened as the A30s, A24s and A5s approached and passed Critical Point on their way to the Beaches. From 8:11pm to 8:42, the A5s, A30s and A24s stayed off the east end of the Reserve, enjoying a rub from 8:16pm to 8:26pm. By 10:18pm these groups, led by the A5s and A30s, were passing Robson Bight to the west. After midnight, they turned and once again passed the Bight, just before 2am. It was then back to the beaches for a rub starting at 2:37am. The close calls there ended around 3am, and then it was off to the Bight once again. The A30s arrived there first by 4:10am, with the A24s and A5s lingering further east till 5:04am. After that, there was a general movement west with the A30s remaining close to Robson Bight until 5:30am. The distant westbound calls dropped off by 6:14am and picked up again at 7:50am. By this time the groups were off Blinkhorn as reported. Very foggy out there this morning! Helena
Helena
13 Aug 2009 08:49:42 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
These A1 calls and echo location are on Flower island in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
13 Aug 2009 10:30:23 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We had the nice surprise of seeing the A34s come through Blackney Pass. They were in Blackfish Sound earlier with the A36s. The A36s have not yet come "down". As the A34s entered Johnstone Strait, the resting A30s,A24s and A5s turned quickly next to the Pig Ranch on Cracroft Island (east of the Sophia Islands) and started west to meet the incoming whales. A34 and A12 were a pair, well ahead, of the rest of their group as they came through Blackney Pass. This was a touching picture,for sure.
Helena
13 Aug 2009 12:18:19 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
This has been a great multi-group (lots of A12/34 calls especially) rub!
Helena
13 Aug 2009 16:02:00 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
the A30s,A24s and the A5s are going east, now past Boat Bay, all in their respective groups, resting. The A12s are headed west toward Cracroft Point. When the whales went past Boat Bay, Marie, said that A39,A71,A28 and the A54s formed an interesting line but then turned back to Swaine Point to meet up and fold into their own groups and then carried on travelling east.
Helena
13 Aug 2009 19:46:35 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A12s have just passed north through Blackney Pass with the A36s following (very vocal!).
Helena
13 Aug 2009 21:42:16 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Heading out this afternoon the orcas who were west in Johnstone Strait earlier in the day had turned back and were heading east which is very typical of the pattern that they had been displaying in their movement in the Strait all week long. The pods included the incoming A34’s (A12’s daughter and her family, as well A12 was travelling with them), A30’s, A23’s, A25’s, A8’s and the A24’s. Meanwhile, the A36’s (brothers three) who had been in Blackfish Sound earlier in the morning had disappeared to the west with no sighting of them reported after this. With this in mind we headed to the east as well, hoping that the orcas would turn back as we travelled. They had been moving at a steady pace but then they stalled and as we neared the Ecological Reserve we saw them as they made their way, cutting across the Strait to the rubbing beaches. Keeping outside of the Reserve boundary passengers could only watch from the distance, A39 was foraging intensely, already making his way back to the west and was seen foraging inside the estuary of the Reserve.
Monday, August 10, 2009
A36s and A12 tip-toed out via Blackney pass!
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s and A12 are now heading north in Blackney Pass.
Helena
10 Aug 2009 07:19:09 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
The A36s and A12 are now heading north in Blackney Pass.
Helena
10 Aug 2009 07:19:09 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
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Distant calls audible.
After the whales finished at the rubbing beaches around 12;30am, and after their calls became distant by 12:40am, it was a relatively uneventful night. Then just after 6am (6:05) faint calls were heard on Critical Point. These very faint and infrequent calls were last heard about ten minutes ago.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 07:00:14
Distant calls audible.
Group of orcas near Blinkhorn going west.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 07:43:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sounds like the A36s are around once more.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 08:29:32 PDT
Distant calls audible.
CP reports seeing the A36s heading east with A12. They came from the west.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 09:22:22 PDT
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
Seasmoke reports
The fog cleared as we headed down Johnstone Strait this morning enabling good visibility from a distance. The A36’s with A12 were sighted in Johnstone Strait and our encounter with them began at Izumi Rock. A12 and A46 were travelling together tight against the Vancouver Island shoreline, A37 was foraging nearby and A32 was also foraging further back to the west. Passengers watched until A12 and A46 entered the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve at the western boundary just as A37 crossed from the north side of the boundary. A32 was further back west foraging steadily off the Baron Reefs near to Cracroft Point. It was at this same location at Cracroft Point that we again sighted the A36 brothers (three) and the A12 matriline on our afternoon tour. A37 was foraging back and forth and was joined by his brother A32 and together they foraged intensely. At one point A37 passed nearby chasing a salmon. We had seen him lunge diving previous to this so to see him pass by the boat close was thrilling for all onboard. A12 who was foraging directly at Cracroft Point suddenly turned back and passed by the boat as it sat idle giving everyone a chance to view the 68 year old female orca. It was a wonderful viewing, exciting and special because of the extraordinary dynamics shared between the four orcas.
After the whales finished at the rubbing beaches around 12;30am, and after their calls became distant by 12:40am, it was a relatively uneventful night. Then just after 6am (6:05) faint calls were heard on Critical Point. These very faint and infrequent calls were last heard about ten minutes ago.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 07:00:14
Distant calls audible.
Group of orcas near Blinkhorn going west.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 07:43:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sounds like the A36s are around once more.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 08:29:32 PDT
Distant calls audible.
CP reports seeing the A36s heading east with A12. They came from the west.
Helena
08 Aug 2009 09:22:22 PDT
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
Seasmoke reports
The fog cleared as we headed down Johnstone Strait this morning enabling good visibility from a distance. The A36’s with A12 were sighted in Johnstone Strait and our encounter with them began at Izumi Rock. A12 and A46 were travelling together tight against the Vancouver Island shoreline, A37 was foraging nearby and A32 was also foraging further back to the west. Passengers watched until A12 and A46 entered the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve at the western boundary just as A37 crossed from the north side of the boundary. A32 was further back west foraging steadily off the Baron Reefs near to Cracroft Point. It was at this same location at Cracroft Point that we again sighted the A36 brothers (three) and the A12 matriline on our afternoon tour. A37 was foraging back and forth and was joined by his brother A32 and together they foraged intensely. At one point A37 passed nearby chasing a salmon. We had seen him lunge diving previous to this so to see him pass by the boat close was thrilling for all onboard. A12 who was foraging directly at Cracroft Point suddenly turned back and passed by the boat as it sat idle giving everyone a chance to view the 68 year old female orca. It was a wonderful viewing, exciting and special because of the extraordinary dynamics shared between the four orcas.
Friday, August 07, 2009
A12 presumably with A30s, A24s and A5s
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
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
Thursday, August 06, 2009
A12s wasn't with the A36s today
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
Orcas near mics.
A12 is rushing north through Blackney Pass!
Helena
06 Aug 2009 19:39:40 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
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
Orcas near mics.
A12 is rushing north through Blackney Pass!
Helena
06 Aug 2009 19:39:40 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
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Not sure where A12 was today
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
Distant calls audible.
After listening to the A36s for quite a while, foraging heavily off of Critical Point and Robson Bight. and hearing them drift eastward toward the east end of the Reserve, we began to hear A5 calls come up from the east. Whales are spread out across from the east end to Forward Bay,all coming west.
Helena
05 Aug 2009 11:59:15 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
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
Distant calls audible.
After listening to the A36s for quite a while, foraging heavily off of Critical Point and Robson Bight. and hearing them drift eastward toward the east end of the Reserve, we began to hear A5 calls come up from the east. Whales are spread out across from the east end to Forward Bay,all coming west.
Helena
05 Aug 2009 11:59:15 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
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
A12 for a while alone Blackfish Sound
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 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
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 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
Monday, August 03, 2009
A12 travels with A36 again
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.
A pretty quiet night. Katie woke up for the 4:20am calls. This did not last long but then at 6:20am Tomoko started to record the A36s in Johnstone Strait as they moved west. CP saw them go by at 7:20am. At that time, there was a report of two more orca heading across to Blinkhorn. So the orca shuffle continues. The A36s are still only across the entrance to Blackney Pass from CP but they may be crossing toward Blinkhorn as well.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 08:20:44 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s with A12 were the only group in western Johnstone Strait this morning. They went past CP at 7:20am and after a while longer off the top end of Hanson Island they travelled past the Plumper Islands to Blackfish Sound. They began calling a short while ago and now may be headed toward Blackney Pass.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 11:01:00 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.
A pretty quiet night. Katie woke up for the 4:20am calls. This did not last long but then at 6:20am Tomoko started to record the A36s in Johnstone Strait as they moved west. CP saw them go by at 7:20am. At that time, there was a report of two more orca heading across to Blinkhorn. So the orca shuffle continues. The A36s are still only across the entrance to Blackney Pass from CP but they may be crossing toward Blinkhorn as well.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 08:20:44 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s with A12 were the only group in western Johnstone Strait this morning. They went past CP at 7:20am and after a while longer off the top end of Hanson Island they travelled past the Plumper Islands to Blackfish Sound. They began calling a short while ago and now may be headed toward Blackney Pass.
Helena
03 Aug 2009 11:01:00 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
A12 left the A36s at 11.30am, heading east
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 (may be) approaching cameras.
The A36s are off Cracroft Point with A12.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 10:00:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
These are A4 calls (A24s) in Blackfish Sound while the A36s and A12 remain off of CP.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 13:28:26 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 rremained 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
Today was another wonderful day for viewing orcas in the area. It began this morning with sighting the A36’s and A12 foraging at Cracroft Point. As we watched mezmerized, A12 and A37 began traveling further west along the Hanson Island shore, they were soon joined by A37 and finally A32 who had been foraging steadily back at the Point. We sat and listened to their beautiful A-Clan calls via the hydrophone and then began making our way back towards the west. Looking back we could see some tall dorsal fins, likely A32 and A37 foraging back at Cracroft Point in the flood current; we had lost sight of A12 who had been foraging with A46 nearby only moments ago. Suddenly A46 was seen charging alongside and keeping pace parallel with us as we traveled. We slowed to let him go by and surprising us, he crossed over and was headed for the Bauza Islets on Vancouver Island. We headed in the direction of Weynton Passage
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 (may be) approaching cameras.
The A36s are off Cracroft Point with A12.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 10:00:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
These are A4 calls (A24s) in Blackfish Sound while the A36s and A12 remain off of CP.
Helena
02 Aug 2009 13:28:26 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 rremained 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
Today was another wonderful day for viewing orcas in the area. It began this morning with sighting the A36’s and A12 foraging at Cracroft Point. As we watched mezmerized, A12 and A37 began traveling further west along the Hanson Island shore, they were soon joined by A37 and finally A32 who had been foraging steadily back at the Point. We sat and listened to their beautiful A-Clan calls via the hydrophone and then began making our way back towards the west. Looking back we could see some tall dorsal fins, likely A32 and A37 foraging back at Cracroft Point in the flood current; we had lost sight of A12 who had been foraging with A46 nearby only moments ago. Suddenly A46 was seen charging alongside and keeping pace parallel with us as we traveled. We slowed to let him go by and surprising us, he crossed over and was headed for the Bauza Islets on Vancouver Island. We headed in the direction of Weynton Passage
Saturday, August 01, 2009
A12+A36s entered JS in the afternoon
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
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
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
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
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
A12 and the A36s spend the day 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
Distant calls audible.
The A36s are headed west from Robson Bight. A46 is still with A12 and A32 and A37 are together following.
Helena
31 Jul 2009 10:20:47 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
This morning we headed in the direction of Johnstone Strait and the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and it was not so long to wait before we could see the distinctive tall dorsal fin of an approaching adult male orca. The A36 brothers were on their way back to the west foraging steadily, they were well spread out across Johnston Strait. A12 was also sighted, she was foraging very close along the Vancouver Island shoreline, A37 was parallel to her while A32 and A46 were over on the West Cracroft Island side of the Strait. The three brothers converged together at Cracroft Point and continued to forage in the flood current. It was exciting to see them feeding, moving back and forth with powerful strokes in chase of salmon. On the afternoon tour passengers enjoyed their time viewing the same A36 brothers and the A12 matriline who had continued to travel further west and were foraging west of Blinkhorn and our encounter with them on this tour was while sailing. The experience of moving quietly along with them under sail was wonderful and passengers were able to listen to their A-Clan calls via the trailing hydrophone.
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
Distant calls audible.
The A36s are headed west from Robson Bight. A46 is still with A12 and A32 and A37 are together following.
Helena
31 Jul 2009 10:20:47 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
This morning we headed in the direction of Johnstone Strait and the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and it was not so long to wait before we could see the distinctive tall dorsal fin of an approaching adult male orca. The A36 brothers were on their way back to the west foraging steadily, they were well spread out across Johnston Strait. A12 was also sighted, she was foraging very close along the Vancouver Island shoreline, A37 was parallel to her while A32 and A46 were over on the West Cracroft Island side of the Strait. The three brothers converged together at Cracroft Point and continued to forage in the flood current. It was exciting to see them feeding, moving back and forth with powerful strokes in chase of salmon. On the afternoon tour passengers enjoyed their time viewing the same A36 brothers and the A12 matriline who had continued to travel further west and were foraging west of Blinkhorn and our encounter with them on this tour was while sailing. The experience of moving quietly along with them under sail was wonderful and passengers were able to listen to their A-Clan calls via the trailing hydrophone.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
A12 together with A46 (A36s)
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
Orcas near mics.
The A36s with A12 finally decided to shift further east. Right now we are listening to them off the east end of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 11:30:27 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Here is another interesting development. A32,A37 and A12 never made it past Izumi Rock (west of Robson Bight), however, A46 did! and so it was his voice alone that we were listening to off of the Rubbing Beaches. The others were pointed east but have, for now, turned back toward Cracroft Point.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 11:54:53 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
Passengers on the Motor Cruise this afternoon enjoyed viewing the A36 brothers and A12. They had been foraging off Cracroft Point for most of the day and were well spread out in Johnstone Strait, from Izumi Rock to Big Bay on Hanson Island and later, further west to Blinkhorn. Their A-Clan calls as always, were beautiful to listen to.
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
Orcas near mics.
The A36s with A12 finally decided to shift further east. Right now we are listening to them off the east end of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 11:30:27 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Here is another interesting development. A32,A37 and A12 never made it past Izumi Rock (west of Robson Bight), however, A46 did! and so it was his voice alone that we were listening to off of the Rubbing Beaches. The others were pointed east but have, for now, turned back toward Cracroft Point.
Helena
30 Jul 2009 11:54:53 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
Passengers on the Motor Cruise this afternoon enjoyed viewing the A36 brothers and A12. They had been foraging off Cracroft Point for most of the day and were well spread out in Johnstone Strait, from Izumi Rock to Big Bay on Hanson Island and later, further west to Blinkhorn. Their A-Clan calls as always, were beautiful to listen to.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
A12s stayed today with A30s and A36s
Orcas near mics.
The A36s were just in close to Critical Point. Zero/zero visibility this morning but the sun is trying to break through. There was (a half hour ago) a report of orcas in Queen Charlotte Strait, offshore between Donegal Head and Lizard Point.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 08:32:14 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales are at the beaches.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 08:52:18 PDT
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.
The A36s were just in close to Critical Point. Zero/zero visibility this morning but the sun is trying to break through. There was (a half hour ago) a report of orcas in Queen Charlotte Strait, offshore between Donegal Head and Lizard Point.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 08:32:14 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales are at the beaches.
Helena
29 Jul 2009 08:52:18 PDT
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.
Monday, July 27, 2009
A34s left tthe west followed by A12
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.
Just a short while ago, we began to hear the groups returning to the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 07:56:04 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Time to catch up:The A34s are the group travelling westward, now, heading "up" the Hanson Island shore past Big Bay.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 10:37:41 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
Orcas hunting fish.
We are now listening to echo location near Robson Bight. The A34s went out of the area earlier and into Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 15:27:04 PDT
Distant calls audible.
It now sounds like the A36s are making their way back to the west. Earlier, (the day has been a bit confusing as not all of the reports and recordings were easy to reconcile for various reasons) A12 may have followed the A34s west in Johnstone Strait, through Weynton Pass and into Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 16:03:59 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.
Just a short while ago, we began to hear the groups returning to the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 07:56:04 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Time to catch up:The A34s are the group travelling westward, now, heading "up" the Hanson Island shore past Big Bay.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 10:37:41 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
Orcas hunting fish.
We are now listening to echo location near Robson Bight. The A34s went out of the area earlier and into Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 15:27:04 PDT
Distant calls audible.
It now sounds like the A36s are making their way back to the west. Earlier, (the day has been a bit confusing as not all of the reports and recordings were easy to reconcile for various reasons) A12 may have followed the A34s west in Johnstone Strait, through Weynton Pass and into Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
27 Jul 2009 16:03:59 PDT
Sunday, July 26, 2009
A34s coming in with A4 and A5 pod and had a rub at Bere Point
Hi Paul & Helena, At 20:30 I had some whales come into & have a rub at Bere Point. They were the A34,s, A23,s A25,s A8,s and I think the A24,s but not sure about them. They all continued to the east.Thought I would give you the heads up, if you don,t already have them done in Blackfish. Take care Troy
Troy Bright@Bere Point
26 Jul 2009 22:55:53 PDT
Troy Bright@Bere Point
26 Jul 2009 22:55:53 PDT
A12 still with A36s and moved with the A30s 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
A12 left the A36s?
Orcas hunting fish.
Someone is fairly close to Robson Bight, just echo location so far.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 09:02:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The calls are few and far between and the fog very thick. However, the A36s with A12 have been seen heading westward along the Vancouver Island side moving toward kaikash Creek. Perhaps, this is the group, Norma heard at 3am!
Helena
25 Jul 2009 10:40:22 PDT
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 fog was heavy this morning and seemed to hang in far longer than usual however, it did not prevent us from viewing orcas and today’s viewing was no exception as passengers and crew alike were treated to some beautiful visuals of the A36’s (three brothers) and Matriline A12. As we made our way down Johnstone Strait following alongside of the Vancouver Island shoreline we listened for blows and as we approached Kaikash Beach we began to hear them. The first orca sighted was A46, his fin appearing through the blanket of white was an awesome sight. He was foraging steadily along, traveling west and close to the VI shore. We could hear other blows parallel and also from behind and as we waited in anticipation, the distinctive dorsal fin of A12 appeared. A32 appeared next, he had been foraging parallel at a distance further out and as we watched, he crossed over behind our stern and was seen moving towards the shoreline at Blinkhorn foraging as he went. It was at this point when suddenly A37 also appeared. The four orcas were intent on feeding and while ecolocation was heard via the hydrophone, no A-Clan calls were heard. We observed them make their turn and begin to slowly angle back towards the east, A46 and A12 had surfaced together following a long dive. As we continued west and homeward bound, Johnstone Strait was almost clear of fog and the sun and a bright blue sky had appeared.
Someone is fairly close to Robson Bight, just echo location so far.
Helena
25 Jul 2009 09:02:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The calls are few and far between and the fog very thick. However, the A36s with A12 have been seen heading westward along the Vancouver Island side moving toward kaikash Creek. Perhaps, this is the group, Norma heard at 3am!
Helena
25 Jul 2009 10:40:22 PDT
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 fog was heavy this morning and seemed to hang in far longer than usual however, it did not prevent us from viewing orcas and today’s viewing was no exception as passengers and crew alike were treated to some beautiful visuals of the A36’s (three brothers) and Matriline A12. As we made our way down Johnstone Strait following alongside of the Vancouver Island shoreline we listened for blows and as we approached Kaikash Beach we began to hear them. The first orca sighted was A46, his fin appearing through the blanket of white was an awesome sight. He was foraging steadily along, traveling west and close to the VI shore. We could hear other blows parallel and also from behind and as we waited in anticipation, the distinctive dorsal fin of A12 appeared. A32 appeared next, he had been foraging parallel at a distance further out and as we watched, he crossed over behind our stern and was seen moving towards the shoreline at Blinkhorn foraging as he went. It was at this point when suddenly A37 also appeared. The four orcas were intent on feeding and while ecolocation was heard via the hydrophone, no A-Clan calls were heard. We observed them make their turn and begin to slowly angle back towards the east, A46 and A12 had surfaced together following a long dive. As we continued west and homeward bound, Johnstone Strait was almost clear of fog and the sun and a bright blue sky had appeared.
Friday, July 24, 2009
A12 still with A36s
Distant calls audible.
Sorry, our internet was down for quite a while yesterday. The problem was outside our network. It seems to be working now so time to catch up. Yesterday, after moving back and forth in the Strait, the A30s headed west to Weynton Pass and curled around Hanson Island to meet up with the C10s, who we had heard earlier in the morning. Both groups then came east to Blackney Pass and then Johnstone Strait. They continued east "down" the Strait and past the Ecological Reserve on the Cracroft Island side.By 4pm they were opposite the Adams River and still eastbound. We never heard them return. At 2:30am the A36s came back via Blackney Pass to Johnstone Strait. They then went east to the Bight. At 7:30am the C10s returned west tight along the Cracroft Island shore. At the moment, there are whales near to Telegraph Cove. It is very,very, foggy. We will find out soon who this might be. There are two new babies in the C10s, one for C10 herself and one for C23 (thanks Jared for that info).
Helena
24 Jul 2009 09:22:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
At about 10:15am the A36s with A12 (!) were headed east to Blinkhorn. They have continued and are now passing Cracroft Point. No sign of the C10s who probably left silently earlier this morning. The fog is slowly lifting out of Blackney Pas.
Helena
24 Jul 2009 12:22:10 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A36s with A12 carried on past critical Point and just now we have heard someone in on the Beaches. They may be turning back west from there. Also, a group of 5 transients went south in Blackney pass and entered Johnstone Strait by 2:10pm. They have gone east.
Helena
24 Jul 2009 14:57:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s and the A12 came away from the beach area and crossed to the Cracroft island side to come west. They are probably between the Sophia Islands and Cracroft Point.
Helena
24 Jul 2009 17:29:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s/A12 have crossed the entrance to Blackney pass and for now are continuing west.
Helena
24 Jul 2009 19:11:19 PDT
Seasmoke reports
The fog cleared rapidly this morning and not long after our departure, orcas were sighted off the Bauza Islets, they were well spread out and foraging and were identified as being the A36 brothers and A12. A46 was the first orca we came upon at the Islets followed by A37. It was a while before we sighted A12, she was much further to the east and mid-strait, and as we watched she crossed over, making her way to Blinkhorn on the Vancouver Island shore where A38 was also sighted. When they made their turn they all angled back towards Cracroft Point and made their way slowly against the ebb current in that direction.
Sorry, our internet was down for quite a while yesterday. The problem was outside our network. It seems to be working now so time to catch up. Yesterday, after moving back and forth in the Strait, the A30s headed west to Weynton Pass and curled around Hanson Island to meet up with the C10s, who we had heard earlier in the morning. Both groups then came east to Blackney Pass and then Johnstone Strait. They continued east "down" the Strait and past the Ecological Reserve on the Cracroft Island side.By 4pm they were opposite the Adams River and still eastbound. We never heard them return. At 2:30am the A36s came back via Blackney Pass to Johnstone Strait. They then went east to the Bight. At 7:30am the C10s returned west tight along the Cracroft Island shore. At the moment, there are whales near to Telegraph Cove. It is very,very, foggy. We will find out soon who this might be. There are two new babies in the C10s, one for C10 herself and one for C23 (thanks Jared for that info).
Helena
24 Jul 2009 09:22:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
At about 10:15am the A36s with A12 (!) were headed east to Blinkhorn. They have continued and are now passing Cracroft Point. No sign of the C10s who probably left silently earlier this morning. The fog is slowly lifting out of Blackney Pas.
Helena
24 Jul 2009 12:22:10 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A36s with A12 carried on past critical Point and just now we have heard someone in on the Beaches. They may be turning back west from there. Also, a group of 5 transients went south in Blackney pass and entered Johnstone Strait by 2:10pm. They have gone east.
Helena
24 Jul 2009 14:57:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s and the A12 came away from the beach area and crossed to the Cracroft island side to come west. They are probably between the Sophia Islands and Cracroft Point.
Helena
24 Jul 2009 17:29:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s/A12 have crossed the entrance to Blackney pass and for now are continuing west.
Helena
24 Jul 2009 19:11:19 PDT
Seasmoke reports
The fog cleared rapidly this morning and not long after our departure, orcas were sighted off the Bauza Islets, they were well spread out and foraging and were identified as being the A36 brothers and A12. A46 was the first orca we came upon at the Islets followed by A37. It was a while before we sighted A12, she was much further to the east and mid-strait, and as we watched she crossed over, making her way to Blinkhorn on the Vancouver Island shore where A38 was also sighted. When they made their turn they all angled back towards Cracroft Point and made their way slowly against the ebb current in that direction.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Distant calls audible.
These A1 calls are in Johnstone Strait again.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 06:23:15 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s (there possibly were A12 calls as well) are calling every so often. We also heard a report that there is another group in Queen Charlotte Strait headed east toward Donegal Head.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 07:34:14 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A36s are in the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 08:53:52 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Really, Close and distant calls. The a34s (without A12) are headed east through Blackfish Sound while the A36s (?with A12) are nearer the Bight.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 09:42:19 PDT
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
Distant calls audible.
The A36s (with A12) are vocal again off the western end of Hanson Island/Weynton Pass.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 15:14:53 PDT
Orcas approaching Orcalab.
The A36s and A12 are heading north through Blackney Pass to Blackfish Sound.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 18:37:41 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
On the afternoon tour the viewing was also exciting as the A36 brothers and A12 were traveling back to the west in Johnstone Strait, they were spread out and foraging intensely. Our entire time spent with the orcas on this tour was under sail using our main sail, passengers enjoyed the experience of sailing quietly with them and while trailing our hydrophone, their A-Clan calls could be heard from time to time.
These A1 calls are in Johnstone Strait again.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 06:23:15 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s (there possibly were A12 calls as well) are calling every so often. We also heard a report that there is another group in Queen Charlotte Strait headed east toward Donegal Head.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 07:34:14 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A36s are in the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 08:53:52 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Really, Close and distant calls. The a34s (without A12) are headed east through Blackfish Sound while the A36s (?with A12) are nearer the Bight.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 09:42:19 PDT
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
Distant calls audible.
The A36s (with A12) are vocal again off the western end of Hanson Island/Weynton Pass.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 15:14:53 PDT
Orcas approaching Orcalab.
The A36s and A12 are heading north through Blackney Pass to Blackfish Sound.
Helena
22 Jul 2009 18:37:41 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
On the afternoon tour the viewing was also exciting as the A36 brothers and A12 were traveling back to the west in Johnstone Strait, they were spread out and foraging intensely. Our entire time spent with the orcas on this tour was under sail using our main sail, passengers enjoyed the experience of sailing quietly with them and while trailing our hydrophone, their A-Clan calls could be heard from time to time.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
A12 reunited with the A34s
Seasmoke reports
We headed out this morning in the direction of Johnstone Strait and as we travelled, a report came in that a group of orcas were east bound in Blackfish Sound. We had also learned that the A36 brothers and A12 were at the west end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and were west bound along the Vancouver Island shoreline. Arriving at Blackney Passage we were just in time to hear the blows of approaching orcas through a curtain of fog that was wafting out from Blackfish Sound and then in a moment, ‘ there they were’! With the engine cut and the hydrophone deployed, it was beautiful to listen to the chorus of their A-Clan calls, signaling the arrival of the A34’s into the Strait. Just prior to their entering, it was observed that the A36 brothers became excited with breaching and spy-hopping activity and A12 had been seen making her way towards Cracroft Point. It was an extremely moving sight to witness and a privilege to share with others as the rest of the Matriline A12’s family: her daughter and her daughters offspring, 8 orcas which included A62’s newest calf A91 and A67’s first calf A92, made their way into the Strait on a flood current. We watched spellbound, the antics of A62’s two calves calves playing together spy-hopping and tail lobbing, as they travelled with their mother A62 and uncle A55. The A36 brothers were closest to this small group especially so A46 while the rest of the A34’s had travelled more quickly to the east down the West Cracroft Island shore.
We headed out this morning in the direction of Johnstone Strait and as we travelled, a report came in that a group of orcas were east bound in Blackfish Sound. We had also learned that the A36 brothers and A12 were at the west end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and were west bound along the Vancouver Island shoreline. Arriving at Blackney Passage we were just in time to hear the blows of approaching orcas through a curtain of fog that was wafting out from Blackfish Sound and then in a moment, ‘ there they were’! With the engine cut and the hydrophone deployed, it was beautiful to listen to the chorus of their A-Clan calls, signaling the arrival of the A34’s into the Strait. Just prior to their entering, it was observed that the A36 brothers became excited with breaching and spy-hopping activity and A12 had been seen making her way towards Cracroft Point. It was an extremely moving sight to witness and a privilege to share with others as the rest of the Matriline A12’s family: her daughter and her daughters offspring, 8 orcas which included A62’s newest calf A91 and A67’s first calf A92, made their way into the Strait on a flood current. We watched spellbound, the antics of A62’s two calves calves playing together spy-hopping and tail lobbing, as they travelled with their mother A62 and uncle A55. The A36 brothers were closest to this small group especially so A46 while the rest of the A34’s had travelled more quickly to the east down the West Cracroft Island shore.
Monday, July 20, 2009
A12 and A36s near Lizard Point
Orcas near mics.
Just over 12 hours since the last reported sighting east of Camp Point, the whales have returned to the Ecological Reserve. Also yesterday, closer to Port Hardy, the Mackays reported seeing the A11s with Springer just after Noon.
Helena
20 Jul 2009 05:45:19 PDT
Seasmoke reports
When a fisherman reported seeing orcas in the fog at Lizard Point we headed in that direction. The fog was clearing quickly and soon the Queen Charlotte Strait was open before us. We found the orcas foraging extensively at Lizard Point, they were well spread out. A12 and A37 were foraging in close proximity together while A32 & A46 were foraging back and forth together. At the time of our viewing, passengers enjoyed sailing quietly with them, ecolation was heard via the trailing hydrophone but there were no vocals.
Just over 12 hours since the last reported sighting east of Camp Point, the whales have returned to the Ecological Reserve. Also yesterday, closer to Port Hardy, the Mackays reported seeing the A11s with Springer just after Noon.
Helena
20 Jul 2009 05:45:19 PDT
Seasmoke reports
When a fisherman reported seeing orcas in the fog at Lizard Point we headed in that direction. The fog was clearing quickly and soon the Queen Charlotte Strait was open before us. We found the orcas foraging extensively at Lizard Point, they were well spread out. A12 and A37 were foraging in close proximity together while A32 & A46 were foraging back and forth together. At the time of our viewing, passengers enjoyed sailing quietly with them, ecolation was heard via the trailing hydrophone but there were no vocals.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
A12 left with A36s to the east
No orcas present.
A report just in from Nick via marie on the "Cliff" that A12 is in a resting line with the A36s ofrf Camp Point.
Helena
19 Jul 2009 10:48:39 PDT
The A36s and A12 have been spotted at Humpback Bay heading eastbound. Moving along in a tight group.
Jessica@Campbell River Whale Watching
19 Jul 2009 11:07:23 PDT
No orcas present.
Apparently, A12 and the A36s are headed back west after a tour of Nodales Channel. At 4:30pm they were still east of Camp point whhich is where they were found at Noon today.
Helena
19 Jul 2009 19:32:54 PDT
A36s and A12 at bear point @ 615pm west bound
Aaron Webber@Campbell river
19 Jul 2009 22:59:34 PDT
Hi Helena, just an update. A-36s and A-12 were westing hard with the ebb tide at Bear Bight just to the west of Ripple Pt. at 1900hrs. Be interesting to see how long it takes them to get to the reserve!
Haywire@c.r. bc
19 Jul 2009 23:06:48 PDT
A report just in from Nick via marie on the "Cliff" that A12 is in a resting line with the A36s ofrf Camp Point.
Helena
19 Jul 2009 10:48:39 PDT
The A36s and A12 have been spotted at Humpback Bay heading eastbound. Moving along in a tight group.
Jessica@Campbell River Whale Watching
19 Jul 2009 11:07:23 PDT
No orcas present.
Apparently, A12 and the A36s are headed back west after a tour of Nodales Channel. At 4:30pm they were still east of Camp point whhich is where they were found at Noon today.
Helena
19 Jul 2009 19:32:54 PDT
A36s and A12 at bear point @ 615pm west bound
Aaron Webber@Campbell river
19 Jul 2009 22:59:34 PDT
Hi Helena, just an update. A-36s and A-12 were westing hard with the ebb tide at Bear Bight just to the west of Ripple Pt. at 1900hrs. Be interesting to see how long it takes them to get to the reserve!
Haywire@c.r. bc
19 Jul 2009 23:06:48 PDT
Saturday, July 18, 2009
A12 joined A36s
Boat noise
just hints this morning, nothing obvious. Possibly faint calls around 5:30am and then possible echo location at 8am. Hopefully, the picture will become clearer.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 08:41:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Here is sweet image, A12 is with the A36s this morning! She is closest to A46 off Bold Head in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 10:44:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s and A12 re-entered Johnstone Strait at about 12:20 pm. They are now east bound. It is unclear where the A30s went last night. It is possible they went out to the west. There was a report today of orcas west bound off Malcolm Island. The boats from Campbell River did not see anything on their way up from the east.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 13:17:47 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 is ahead of the A36s. She had been with A46 on the Hanson Island side and then shot over to Vancouver Island. The A36s regrouped west of her and finally turned eastwartd again when off the Wastell Islands near Telegraph Cove. As they neared Blinkhorn,A 12 was just west of Kaikash Creek around 3:50pm.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 16:26:31 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A36s are still in Johnstone Strait ffor now. We have not heard from A12 for a long while. She was seen heading west from Kaikash Creek at 5:30pm when the A36s were further west near Blinkhorn. It will be interesting to see where everyone ends up by morning.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 22:26:06 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It may be that the A36s finally decided to go east of Robson Bight.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 23:17:40 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Todays tour was a very special one, made so by the beautiful dynamics displayed between a matriline who has in recent months lost her son and of three brothers who lost their mother several years ago. We encountered the A36 brothers with A12 near to Bold Head in Blackfish Sound. All of the orcas were very relaxed, some were seen resting while others were foraging, moving very slowly to the west yet not going any distance. A12 was observed spending time very close to A46, A32 was closest to Swanson Island and A37 was not so far from A12 and A46. Passengers enjoyed listening to their A-Clan calls via the hydrophone as we drifted in the current. The orcas rested, drifting towards Donegal Head while A32 continued to forage.
All the while numerous Bald Eagles were working a herring ball and some wonderful viewing of the Eagles swooping low to pick up herring in their talons was observed, along with Rhinoceros Auklets who were also diving and feeding. As we neared the orcas again, a single Pacific White-sided Dolphin was seen amongst them and then the orcas disappeared for a long dive, resurfacing, they were seen to have grouped altogether. With A12 traveling between A46 and A32 and A37 alongside; it really was quite wonderful to see. Their movement carried them towards Weynton Passage and it was at Stubbs Island that they finally were seen to have made up their minds to head in that direction into Johnston Strait with the flood current pushing them along. Even in the distance as we watched, the four orcas made their way into Johnstone Strait, they were relaxed, swimming alongside in traveling sequence with A12 tight between A32 and A46 with A37 to the left of A32. Having watched A12 solo and alone for several days not so long ago, it truly was heartwarming to see her in this way today.
just hints this morning, nothing obvious. Possibly faint calls around 5:30am and then possible echo location at 8am. Hopefully, the picture will become clearer.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 08:41:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Here is sweet image, A12 is with the A36s this morning! She is closest to A46 off Bold Head in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 10:44:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s and A12 re-entered Johnstone Strait at about 12:20 pm. They are now east bound. It is unclear where the A30s went last night. It is possible they went out to the west. There was a report today of orcas west bound off Malcolm Island. The boats from Campbell River did not see anything on their way up from the east.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 13:17:47 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 is ahead of the A36s. She had been with A46 on the Hanson Island side and then shot over to Vancouver Island. The A36s regrouped west of her and finally turned eastwartd again when off the Wastell Islands near Telegraph Cove. As they neared Blinkhorn,A 12 was just west of Kaikash Creek around 3:50pm.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 16:26:31 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A36s are still in Johnstone Strait ffor now. We have not heard from A12 for a long while. She was seen heading west from Kaikash Creek at 5:30pm when the A36s were further west near Blinkhorn. It will be interesting to see where everyone ends up by morning.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 22:26:06 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It may be that the A36s finally decided to go east of Robson Bight.
Helena
18 Jul 2009 23:17:40 PDT
Seasmoke reports
Todays tour was a very special one, made so by the beautiful dynamics displayed between a matriline who has in recent months lost her son and of three brothers who lost their mother several years ago. We encountered the A36 brothers with A12 near to Bold Head in Blackfish Sound. All of the orcas were very relaxed, some were seen resting while others were foraging, moving very slowly to the west yet not going any distance. A12 was observed spending time very close to A46, A32 was closest to Swanson Island and A37 was not so far from A12 and A46. Passengers enjoyed listening to their A-Clan calls via the hydrophone as we drifted in the current. The orcas rested, drifting towards Donegal Head while A32 continued to forage.
All the while numerous Bald Eagles were working a herring ball and some wonderful viewing of the Eagles swooping low to pick up herring in their talons was observed, along with Rhinoceros Auklets who were also diving and feeding. As we neared the orcas again, a single Pacific White-sided Dolphin was seen amongst them and then the orcas disappeared for a long dive, resurfacing, they were seen to have grouped altogether. With A12 traveling between A46 and A32 and A37 alongside; it really was quite wonderful to see. Their movement carried them towards Weynton Passage and it was at Stubbs Island that they finally were seen to have made up their minds to head in that direction into Johnston Strait with the flood current pushing them along. Even in the distance as we watched, the four orcas made their way into Johnstone Strait, they were relaxed, swimming alongside in traveling sequence with A12 tight between A32 and A46 with A37 to the left of A32. Having watched A12 solo and alone for several days not so long ago, it truly was heartwarming to see her in this way today.
Friday, July 17, 2009
A12 still with the A30s. They met the A36s in JS
No orcas present.
We did hear "something" in Blackfish Sound starting after 6am. Boat noise and distance have made it difficult to say just what is out there. No morning reports on the A30s yet.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 08:59:19 PDT
No orcas present.
We have heard that the A36s have been seen off the western end of Malcolm Island recently. They are not yet committed to travelling into this area. Also, the Columbia III reports seeing T20/T21 just west of us. This may have been who we were hearing earlier.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 09:25:27 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s are still moving through Queen Charlotte Strait toward Blackfish Sound as the A30s and A12 move west toward the Ecological Reserve Johnstone Strait from the Eve River. None of the groups are quite "in" yet.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 12:25:53 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sounds like A12 and the A30s are now passing the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 14:25:06 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A36 brothers are just entering Johnstone Strait, after coming through Blackfish Sound & Blackney Pass. We're hearing their calls on the Parson Island hydrophone. They were silent as they traveled slowly, together, through Blackney, so beautiiful to see in the late afternoon sunlight.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 18:55:09 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A36s "met" up with the A30s and A12 in Johnstone Strait. They are now nearing Robson Bight. Beautiful!
Helena
17 Jul 2009 20:25:42 PDT
Seasmoke reports
This afternoon we headed in the direction of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve in Johnstone Strait as the A30’s and A12 were headed back from their journey to the east. Our first sighting showed an orca at Critical Point, soon after others were sighted further back and traveling very close along the VI shoreline. They were all moving at a steady pace foraging as they went. We identified A38 and then A12 who was close behind him a distance out from the shoreline yet closer to the VI shore while A39 was headed more towards the Cracroft Island shoreline. A50 and A54, each with their off-spring including A54’s new calf A94 were also later seen.
We did hear "something" in Blackfish Sound starting after 6am. Boat noise and distance have made it difficult to say just what is out there. No morning reports on the A30s yet.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 08:59:19 PDT
No orcas present.
We have heard that the A36s have been seen off the western end of Malcolm Island recently. They are not yet committed to travelling into this area. Also, the Columbia III reports seeing T20/T21 just west of us. This may have been who we were hearing earlier.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 09:25:27 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s are still moving through Queen Charlotte Strait toward Blackfish Sound as the A30s and A12 move west toward the Ecological Reserve Johnstone Strait from the Eve River. None of the groups are quite "in" yet.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 12:25:53 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sounds like A12 and the A30s are now passing the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 14:25:06 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A36 brothers are just entering Johnstone Strait, after coming through Blackfish Sound & Blackney Pass. We're hearing their calls on the Parson Island hydrophone. They were silent as they traveled slowly, together, through Blackney, so beautiiful to see in the late afternoon sunlight.
Helena
17 Jul 2009 18:55:09 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A36s "met" up with the A30s and A12 in Johnstone Strait. They are now nearing Robson Bight. Beautiful!
Helena
17 Jul 2009 20:25:42 PDT
Seasmoke reports
This afternoon we headed in the direction of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve in Johnstone Strait as the A30’s and A12 were headed back from their journey to the east. Our first sighting showed an orca at Critical Point, soon after others were sighted further back and traveling very close along the VI shoreline. They were all moving at a steady pace foraging as they went. We identified A38 and then A12 who was close behind him a distance out from the shoreline yet closer to the VI shore while A39 was headed more towards the Cracroft Island shoreline. A50 and A54, each with their off-spring including A54’s new calf A94 were also later seen.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
A12 left with the A30s to the east
A12
July 16, 2009
Hanson Island, B.C.
Photo by Florent Nicolas
Orcas relaxing.
We're hearing A1 "resting" calls on the Flower island hydrophone.
Helena
16 Jul 2009 07:31:36 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s have just entered Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. Lovely calm morning, the A30s passed us in the edges of fog, numerous breaches as they went by. We're hearing the calls on the CP & CrPt hydrophones.
Helena
16 Jul 2009 08:03:13 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s are in Robson Bight. We're listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone. A short while ago, we also heard a brief rub, possibly by A12.
Helena
16 Jul 2009 09:10:27 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like the A30s are having a rub!
Helena
16 Jul 2009 09:31:58 PDT
Distant calls audible.
There was a brief power outage in Alert Bay which caused the interruption in streaming. While this was happening, the A30s and A12 moved off the beaches and back to the west. A12 travelled along Cracroft Island, crossed the entrance to Blackney pass and carried on up the Hanson Island shore. The A30s travelled along Vancouver Island and are now nearing Blinkhorn.
Helena
16 Jul 2009 13:18:46 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and A12 turned off of Telegraph Cove. The are now heading back to the east.
Helena
16 Jul 2009 14:35:15 PDT
No orcas present.
After the turn, the A30s and A12 continued east to the beaches where they rubbed briefly and then continued east out of the Reserve at 5:30pm.
Helena
16 Jul 2009 20:10:21 PDT
Seasmoke reports
It was a calm and very peaceful day to be out on tour and our encounter with the orcas was very early on as they neared Blinkhorn. The A30’s were making their way foraging along the VI shore. A30 was in the lead with A38 close by, another male was sighted (A39) foraging opposite across the Strait on the Hanson Island shoreline and A12 was further east of him. A54 and her off-spring followed behind A30 & A38 and lastly, A50 and her calves with A72 in the lead. It was especially beautiful to sit listening to their A-Clan calls via the hydrophone, some resting calls were heard amongst others and suddenly as is usual, they all turned and began proceeding to travel back to the east.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
A12 following A30s
Distant calls audible.
A busy Johnstone Strait night for the whales. After the last rub, when it sounded like A12 was one of the last ones in, the A30s moved back west toward Cracroft Point. From there there calls became distant probably the whales continued west while making a turn back to Critical Point. More eastward movement has brought them back to the beaches once more.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 05:48:32 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're hearing occasional distant calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. The A30s are in western Johnstone Strait, in fog off Blinkhorn light, pointed west.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 10:15:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth and back with streaming audio (the computer did an update and closed the streaming session). After the last rub, the A30s (?+A12) returned to the west again. This time they made it as far as Telegraph Cove. At 10:20 am, they turned back to the east and are now spread out across Johnstone Strait, past Blinkhorn.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 11:18:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s with possibly A12 following just headed north through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Some of their callls were very close to Flower island as they passed but these became quickly distant as they moved on. A38 was in front, a39 was with A30 and the other two groups were further over swimming fairly close to each other. We think A12 was following.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 13:00:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
There are now calls in Johnsstone Strait.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 16:38:34 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Sleepy afternoon whales. The got into Johnstone Strait and except for a few calls while one of the males was off Cracroft Point, it has mostly been quiet.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 19:59:28 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s (with A12?) must have turned before those last calls and entered Weynton Pass to head for Blackfish Sound where they are now.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 20:59:56 PDT
A busy Johnstone Strait night for the whales. After the last rub, when it sounded like A12 was one of the last ones in, the A30s moved back west toward Cracroft Point. From there there calls became distant probably the whales continued west while making a turn back to Critical Point. More eastward movement has brought them back to the beaches once more.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 05:48:32 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're hearing occasional distant calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. The A30s are in western Johnstone Strait, in fog off Blinkhorn light, pointed west.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 10:15:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth and back with streaming audio (the computer did an update and closed the streaming session). After the last rub, the A30s (?+A12) returned to the west again. This time they made it as far as Telegraph Cove. At 10:20 am, they turned back to the east and are now spread out across Johnstone Strait, past Blinkhorn.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 11:18:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s with possibly A12 following just headed north through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Some of their callls were very close to Flower island as they passed but these became quickly distant as they moved on. A38 was in front, a39 was with A30 and the other two groups were further over swimming fairly close to each other. We think A12 was following.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 13:00:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
There are now calls in Johnsstone Strait.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 16:38:34 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Sleepy afternoon whales. The got into Johnstone Strait and except for a few calls while one of the males was off Cracroft Point, it has mostly been quiet.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 19:59:28 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s (with A12?) must have turned before those last calls and entered Weynton Pass to head for Blackfish Sound where they are now.
Helena
15 Jul 2009 20:59:56 PDT
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
A12 joined the A30s
Superb sounds!!
Time to catch up. Paul and I had to go to town. While on our way, the A30s were located off Malcolm Point in Queen Charlotte Strait before 11am. Soon afterwards, they slowed down and turned back east. By the time they were between Lizard Point and Donegal Head A12 was seen travelling with the A30s. It is not clear when she joined them. A12 led the way into Johnstone Strait around 4:30pm, the others soon followed. They then travelled east and past Robson Bight but then doubled back without going in for a rub. Just now they have been very close to Critical Point and might go back east once more. We will soon know if that is their intention.
Helena
14 Jul 2009 22:31:23 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
They have gone east for a rub!
Helena
Time to catch up. Paul and I had to go to town. While on our way, the A30s were located off Malcolm Point in Queen Charlotte Strait before 11am. Soon afterwards, they slowed down and turned back east. By the time they were between Lizard Point and Donegal Head A12 was seen travelling with the A30s. It is not clear when she joined them. A12 led the way into Johnstone Strait around 4:30pm, the others soon followed. They then travelled east and past Robson Bight but then doubled back without going in for a rub. Just now they have been very close to Critical Point and might go back east once more. We will soon know if that is their intention.
Helena
14 Jul 2009 22:31:23 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
They have gone east for a rub!
Helena
Sunday, July 12, 2009
A12 returned from the east. Not sure were she went.
Boat noise
A12 was reported far to the east this morning; first, off Chatham Point (about as far east as you can go in Johnstone Strait!) at 9:30am, second off Bear Point slowly heading west (11:15 am). There is a possible transient group west of the Fosters in Queen Charlotte Strait, to the west of us, heading east very slowly.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 12:25:41 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It is possible that the group of transients who were in Queen Charlotte Strait have appeared in Blackney Pass. There are 6, in two groups o 4 and 2. They are moving very slowly towards Johnstone Strait.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 19:45:43 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Hmmmm...A12 has also made it to Johnstone Strait. She is off boat Bay (opposite Robson Bight) headed west after spending time in the east.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 20:00:50 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The male and female pair of transients has doubled back through Blackney Pass. They are on their way to Blackfish Sound. So far there is no sign of the other four. A12 gave a couple of calls before the transients exited Johnstone Strait. We have not heard her since so we don't know if she has kept going west. The tide is ebbing and so might encourage her to do so.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 21:33:53 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The evening gets more and more interesting. We heard transient calls briefly in Johnstone Strait. We were not able to source the calls other than generally.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 22:12:04 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Those last transient calls, a short while ago were in Johnstone Strait. This probably means, the group of four (two females, two juveniles, stayed straitside while the pair travelled north in Blackney Pass. We do not know where A12 might have gotten to..
Helena
12 Jul 2009 23:10:45 PDT
A12 was reported far to the east this morning; first, off Chatham Point (about as far east as you can go in Johnstone Strait!) at 9:30am, second off Bear Point slowly heading west (11:15 am). There is a possible transient group west of the Fosters in Queen Charlotte Strait, to the west of us, heading east very slowly.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 12:25:41 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It is possible that the group of transients who were in Queen Charlotte Strait have appeared in Blackney Pass. There are 6, in two groups o 4 and 2. They are moving very slowly towards Johnstone Strait.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 19:45:43 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Hmmmm...A12 has also made it to Johnstone Strait. She is off boat Bay (opposite Robson Bight) headed west after spending time in the east.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 20:00:50 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The male and female pair of transients has doubled back through Blackney Pass. They are on their way to Blackfish Sound. So far there is no sign of the other four. A12 gave a couple of calls before the transients exited Johnstone Strait. We have not heard her since so we don't know if she has kept going west. The tide is ebbing and so might encourage her to do so.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 21:33:53 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The evening gets more and more interesting. We heard transient calls briefly in Johnstone Strait. We were not able to source the calls other than generally.
Helena
12 Jul 2009 22:12:04 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Those last transient calls, a short while ago were in Johnstone Strait. This probably means, the group of four (two females, two juveniles, stayed straitside while the pair travelled north in Blackney Pass. We do not know where A12 might have gotten to..
Helena
12 Jul 2009 23:10:45 PDT
A12 is returning from the east
A12 is by herself and westing at Chatam Point. (intersection of Discovery / Nodales & Johnstone Strait) 9:00 am
Hurricane Jack@Campbell River
12 Jul 2009 09:43:10 PDT
Hurricane Jack@Campbell River
12 Jul 2009 09:43:10 PDT
Saturday, July 11, 2009
A12
Seasmoke reports
At the top end of Blackfish Sound A12 was sighted, she was traveling towards Donegal Head and an advancing fog bank. The fog rolled in and yet A12 was still visible, her black body was viewed in stark contrast to the white blanket of fog that engulfed all. And, as she has done so for the last few days, A12 turned and making her way at a steady pace, she slipped back into Johnston Strait via Weynton Passage.
At the top end of Blackfish Sound A12 was sighted, she was traveling towards Donegal Head and an advancing fog bank. The fog rolled in and yet A12 was still visible, her black body was viewed in stark contrast to the white blanket of fog that engulfed all. And, as she has done so for the last few days, A12 turned and making her way at a steady pace, she slipped back into Johnston Strait via Weynton Passage.
A12 still the only girl in town
Orcas hunting fish.
Just a short while ago we heard close echo location. It sounded like it was off Robson Bight.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 06:25:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 is headed north in Blackney Pass.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 08:47:37 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 did a circuit around hanson Island to re-enter johnstone Strait at 11:47am. She is now east of Cracroft Point headed to the Ecological Reserve. Being the only whale in town she is getting a lot of attention: 1 whale to at least 7 boats!
Helena
11 Jul 2009 13:31:24 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
A12 has rounded Critical Point (2:34pm) and is still headed east along Vancouver Island.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 14:45:49 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like A12 has arrived at the Rubbing Beaches.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 15:40:34 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like A12 has arrived at the Rubbing Beaches.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 16:15:12 PDT
No orcas present.
A12 carried on to the east from the beaches. This is very similar to her movements for the last couple of days,
Helena
11 Jul 2009 16:17:22 PDT
Just a short while ago we heard close echo location. It sounded like it was off Robson Bight.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 06:25:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 is headed north in Blackney Pass.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 08:47:37 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 did a circuit around hanson Island to re-enter johnstone Strait at 11:47am. She is now east of Cracroft Point headed to the Ecological Reserve. Being the only whale in town she is getting a lot of attention: 1 whale to at least 7 boats!
Helena
11 Jul 2009 13:31:24 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
A12 has rounded Critical Point (2:34pm) and is still headed east along Vancouver Island.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 14:45:49 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like A12 has arrived at the Rubbing Beaches.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 15:40:34 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like A12 has arrived at the Rubbing Beaches.
Helena
11 Jul 2009 16:15:12 PDT
No orcas present.
A12 carried on to the east from the beaches. This is very similar to her movements for the last couple of days,
Helena
11 Jul 2009 16:17:22 PDT
Friday, July 10, 2009
Seasmoke reports
A single A-Clan call heard early in the morning via the hydrophone network indicated that the Matriline A12, was likely returning from her travel east last evening and it was later in the morning that she was reported heading back to the east from Weynton Passage. At Big Bay we encountered her, our vessel having entered Johnstone Strait from Blackfish Sound. Although alone, A12 was a beautiful and significant sight to see. She was intent on traveling and although the flood tide had begun, she did not stop to forage off Cracroft Point. We left her as she began crossing over towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.
A single A-Clan call heard early in the morning via the hydrophone network indicated that the Matriline A12, was likely returning from her travel east last evening and it was later in the morning that she was reported heading back to the east from Weynton Passage. At Big Bay we encountered her, our vessel having entered Johnstone Strait from Blackfish Sound. Although alone, A12 was a beautiful and significant sight to see. She was intent on traveling and although the flood tide had begun, she did not stop to forage off Cracroft Point. We left her as she began crossing over towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
A12 came back and left, still on her own!
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 just went past the Lab headed north! This was a bit of a surprise as was the sight of jumping salmon close to Hanson Island. Last year we saw only one salmon jump for entire dismal season. This is a good sign.
Helena
09 Jul 2009 09:20:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Those last calls (through considerable boat noise) were from A12 as she re-entered Johnstone Strait from Blackney Pass. Sounds like she is headed back east.
Helena
09 Jul 2009 15:06:31 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
A12 is now in Robson Bight, perhaps grabbing a bite to eat. She is still by herself and there are no reports of the A34s yet.
Helena
09 Jul 2009 17:24:32 PDT
No orcas present.
The Cliff research site reported that A12 kept going east along Vancouver Island past the Ecological Reserve at 6:30pm.
Helena
09 Jul 2009 19:56:58 PDT
A12 just went past the Lab headed north! This was a bit of a surprise as was the sight of jumping salmon close to Hanson Island. Last year we saw only one salmon jump for entire dismal season. This is a good sign.
Helena
09 Jul 2009 09:20:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Those last calls (through considerable boat noise) were from A12 as she re-entered Johnstone Strait from Blackney Pass. Sounds like she is headed back east.
Helena
09 Jul 2009 15:06:31 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
A12 is now in Robson Bight, perhaps grabbing a bite to eat. She is still by herself and there are no reports of the A34s yet.
Helena
09 Jul 2009 17:24:32 PDT
No orcas present.
The Cliff research site reported that A12 kept going east along Vancouver Island past the Ecological Reserve at 6:30pm.
Helena
09 Jul 2009 19:56:58 PDT
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
A12 left to the east
Boat noise
last night we had the impression A12 went beyond Robson Bight. The rest of the night was quiet. Today, A12 has been sighted far to the east.
Helena
08 Jul 2009 10:29:36 PDT
last night we had the impression A12 went beyond Robson Bight. The rest of the night was quiet. Today, A12 has been sighted far to the east.
Helena
08 Jul 2009 10:29:36 PDT
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
A12 in the area on her own
No calls but orcas nearby
Another tour completed. A12is once again headed back to Johnstone Strait from Blackfish Sound. This time she travelled south through Blackney Pass to do so.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 06:09:20 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 is now calling.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 06:30:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sounds like A12 may have decided to head east in the Strait.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 07:03:51 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 turned back west and has come along the Cracroft Island shore to Cracroft Point, has crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass and is now travelling close to the Hanson Island shore near Big Bay. Meanwhile, ther has been a report of three orcas near Black Bluff headed west.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 12:30:03 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
A12 has come out of Johnstone Strait and has travelled into Blackfish Sound via Blackney Pass. She may be trying to secure a bite to eat!
Helena
07 Jul 2009 14:26:52 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We can't keep up with A12! She is now in Johnstone Strait after doubling back through Blackney Pass.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 17:09:17 PDT
Another tour completed. A12is once again headed back to Johnstone Strait from Blackfish Sound. This time she travelled south through Blackney Pass to do so.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 06:09:20 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 is now calling.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 06:30:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sounds like A12 may have decided to head east in the Strait.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 07:03:51 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 turned back west and has come along the Cracroft Island shore to Cracroft Point, has crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass and is now travelling close to the Hanson Island shore near Big Bay. Meanwhile, ther has been a report of three orcas near Black Bluff headed west.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 12:30:03 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
A12 has come out of Johnstone Strait and has travelled into Blackfish Sound via Blackney Pass. She may be trying to secure a bite to eat!
Helena
07 Jul 2009 14:26:52 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We can't keep up with A12! She is now in Johnstone Strait after doubling back through Blackney Pass.
Helena
07 Jul 2009 17:09:17 PDT
Monday, July 06, 2009
A12 moving around in the area
Distant calls audible.
Our internet connection has been down for a while today as the result of a huge lightning storm which passed over the area between 11pm and midnight. A12 spent the morning in Johnstone Strait. After her 2:20 am rub she headed back to the west and was calling off Cracroft Point by 4am. Later she was seen off of Big Bay (Hanson Island) at 7:50am. From there she crossed over to the western boundary of the Reserve (9:35) and carried on eastward to the Eve River where she once again turned west. She went past the Cliff opposite Robson Bight at 1:30 pm then straight on to Cracroft Point and Blackney Pass. She travelled energetically through Blackney Pass and is now in Blackfish Sound westbound (4:25 pm). Whew! Quite the tour.
Helena
06 Jul 2009 17:16:43 PDT
Distant calls audible.
There are distant calls once again in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
06 Jul 2009 21:35:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
It now sounds like A12 has found her way into Robson Bight.
Helena
06 Jul 2009 23:16:34 PDT
Our internet connection has been down for a while today as the result of a huge lightning storm which passed over the area between 11pm and midnight. A12 spent the morning in Johnstone Strait. After her 2:20 am rub she headed back to the west and was calling off Cracroft Point by 4am. Later she was seen off of Big Bay (Hanson Island) at 7:50am. From there she crossed over to the western boundary of the Reserve (9:35) and carried on eastward to the Eve River where she once again turned west. She went past the Cliff opposite Robson Bight at 1:30 pm then straight on to Cracroft Point and Blackney Pass. She travelled energetically through Blackney Pass and is now in Blackfish Sound westbound (4:25 pm). Whew! Quite the tour.
Helena
06 Jul 2009 17:16:43 PDT
Distant calls audible.
There are distant calls once again in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
06 Jul 2009 21:35:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
It now sounds like A12 has found her way into Robson Bight.
Helena
06 Jul 2009 23:16:34 PDT
Sunday, July 05, 2009
A33 is probably dead, A12 is doing well
A33, or Nimpkish,
with his mom A12
Kelsey Bay, 2006
Photo by Nick Templeman
Distant calls audible.
We have heard just two calls and as of yet have not been able to locate where they were coming from. Someone is out there. meanwhile, dolphinsagain.
Helena
05 Jul 2009 08:55:48 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales (A12s?)are now in Johnstone Strait having come through Weynton Pass.
Helena
05 Jul 2009 09:19:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Today has been a rather interesting day and one that is a cause for reflection. A12 turned up by herself in Johnstone Strait earlier this morning. Her son, Nimpkish (A33) was not with her. Nor had he been with her earlier this Spring when she was sighted furhter north. This was at the same time as when her daughter's family (the A34s) were here in Johnstone Strait. This most likely means he has died. He was her constant companion. So today, we have been sadly trying to follow her solitary movements in the Strait. She has vocalised every so often and between the whale watch boats like the Tuan, Naiad and Lukwa, researcher Marie on the Cliff, Straitwatch and our own recordings, we have been able to follow her through the day. Unlike the other day, when she was with the A34s in Queen Charlotte Strait, she now seems fairly energetic, travelling and foraging in the Strait. She is pretty much the oldest matriarch in the northern resident community and so must hold a special place in her community. We are hoping that it will not be too long before she is joined by her family.
Helena
05 Jul 2009 19:45:06 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 just went past the Loab headed into Blackfish Sound. She was breaching! and travelling at a good energetic pace. She looked well.
Helena
05 Jul 2009 20:06:46 PDT
Distant calls audible.
It sounds like A12 might be back in Johnstone Strait again. There has been a very dramatic lightening and thunder storm pass overhead. It is quieter now.
Helena
05 Jul 2009 23:14:38 PDT
Sad news about A-33. I am still hoping for the best, as he is my favorite big beatiful orca by far! Just wanted to send you my favorite picture of him and his mom together. It was taken in 2006 and i believe they were heading east past Kelsey Bay. We were out at Lizard two days ago when they all came in and it was sad to not see him there, but happy as well to see that they had two new babies with them. I believe since i have been whale watching and getting to know them all, he is the first older male that i know who has passed away. I called him "A-33 surprise" for his surprise visits beside the boat that he liked to pull off!
Nick Templeman, Discovery Marine Safaris
Seasmoke reports
It was at Cracroft Point that an orca blow was sighted, and as we drew near we identified the orca as being A12. Seeing A12 foraging alone today one cannot help but remember days and years past when all of the family was intact including A12’s oldest son, A31. We cannot be absolutely sure that A33 has died, for now he is reported as missing. The A12 Matriline we sighted yesterday: A12 along with her daughter A34 and her off-spring but A33 (A12’s 38 year old son) was not sighted. Today we observed A12 foraging steadily back and forth at Cracroft Point and the rest of her family, the A34’s were not seen.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
A12s at Lizard Point
No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s are just west of Lizard Point, in Queen Charlotte Strait. This is just to the west of us so perhaps before they day is out they will drop down to these parts.
Helena
04 Jul 2009 14:02:33 PDT
Seasmoke reports:
It was exciting news to hear a sports fishing vessel reporting that orcas were traveling to the east from Lizard Point. En route to the orcas a Bald Eagle was sighted swimming in the water, using its wings to help propel its body along, it finally made it to shore; Dall’s Porpoises were also seen near by. At the time of our encounter with the orcas, the A12 matriline were mingling about, young calves were playful with tail slapping and some resting activity was also observed. A12 was sighted resting, not so far behind A34 and some of her offspring who included A67 and her new calf.
The A12s are just west of Lizard Point, in Queen Charlotte Strait. This is just to the west of us so perhaps before they day is out they will drop down to these parts.
Helena
04 Jul 2009 14:02:33 PDT
Seasmoke reports:
It was exciting news to hear a sports fishing vessel reporting that orcas were traveling to the east from Lizard Point. En route to the orcas a Bald Eagle was sighted swimming in the water, using its wings to help propel its body along, it finally made it to shore; Dall’s Porpoises were also seen near by. At the time of our encounter with the orcas, the A12 matriline were mingling about, young calves were playful with tail slapping and some resting activity was also observed. A12 was sighted resting, not so far behind A34 and some of her offspring who included A67 and her new calf.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
A34s still around?
No calls but orcas nearby
A group of at least 6 orcas has just passed swiftly northwards through Blackney Pass, on the ebbing tide. They looked like the A34s, though we aren't sure, and they were silent. Hopefully, they will call in Blackfish Sound, & then we'll know.
Helena
21 Jun 2009 08:26:48 PDT
A group of at least 6 orcas has just passed swiftly northwards through Blackney Pass, on the ebbing tide. They looked like the A34s, though we aren't sure, and they were silent. Hopefully, they will call in Blackfish Sound, & then we'll know.
Helena
21 Jun 2009 08:26:48 PDT
Saturday, June 20, 2009
A12s heading west or east??
Superb sounds!!
Most likely the A12s are heading back to the west. It is a lovely morning, a bit misty after yesterday's rain.
Helena
20 Jun 2009 06:37:28 PDT
No orcas present.
After the 6:30am calls off Robson Bight, the A34s disappeared. So, as of now, it is not clear if they went west or east. There was a report of 18 orcas off Campbell River today but there were no confirmed identifications. A smaller group of transients were reported in that area during the day. Keep your ears open, someone may yet turn up!
Helena
20 Jun 2009 23:22:48 PDT
Most likely the A12s are heading back to the west. It is a lovely morning, a bit misty after yesterday's rain.
Helena
20 Jun 2009 06:37:28 PDT
No orcas present.
After the 6:30am calls off Robson Bight, the A34s disappeared. So, as of now, it is not clear if they went west or east. There was a report of 18 orcas off Campbell River today but there were no confirmed identifications. A smaller group of transients were reported in that area during the day. Keep your ears open, someone may yet turn up!
Helena
20 Jun 2009 23:22:48 PDT
Friday, June 19, 2009
A34s are back and with 2 new baby's
Photo Jim Borrowman.
Superb sounds!!
We are hearing A1 calls in Johnstone Strait! They are back! We will let you know who when we figure it out.
Helena
19 Jun 2009 15:00:53 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It is the A12s! ... making their way eastward toward the Reserve.
Helena
19 Jun 2009 16:36:22 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Sounds as if the A12s have gone past Robson Bight to the east.
Helena
19 Jun 2009 18:27:12 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A34s are going through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. A12 and A33 are not with them. Jared and Stubbs Island Whale Watch informed us before they came into Blackney Pass that there are two new babies in the group! A62 and A67 are new mothers!
Helena
19 Jun 2009 20:42:06 PDT
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