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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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 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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.