Over the last week we have been treated to some exceptional sightings of killer whales onboard our vessels. There have been both our critically endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKWs) around and some of our Bigg’s killer whales hanging out as well.
On Thursday we enjoyed a beautiful cruise surrounded by active SRKWs up north in the waters of the Canadian Gulf Islands. Most notably we witnessed some very rare behavior from a group of these fish-eating whales: J2 Granny was playing with a harbor porpoise! This is very rare behavior as far as we know, and there is a research project underway by the Center for Whale Research to document its occurrence. I documented the event grabbing GPS coordinates and taking photos to send along to the scientists.
L87 following J2 Harassing a porpoise
Yesterday we had another spectacular set of trips on the M/V Sea Lion, seeing both Residents and Bigg’s. The day was highlighted by an extremely breachy calf in the afternoon along the shore of Henry Island, and a super social family gathering of the transients in the evening right outside of Friday Harbor!
Orcas breaching near San Juan Island
Bigg’s Killer Whales surfacing
I am consistently in awe that I get to spend my days surrounded by this magnificent place and such amazing creatures!
Lead Naturalist Sarah, M/V Sea Lion, San Juan Safaris