Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Minke Whales and Transient Orcas:) Aug 13th, 2008.

























Our vessel was the first out this morning and as the conditions were so perfect we decided to head towards Hein Bank in search of Minke Whales. We were not to be disappointed as we found not one but at least 3 Minke Whales and possibly 4. One of the Minke Whales could be seen lunge feeding on a bait ball, dispersing the seagulls and Auklets that had also been feeding on the bait ball. We also stopped in at the Chain Islands and saw a large number of Harbor Seals and Pups.

In the afternoon we headed out west towards Sheringham Lighthouse after receiving a report that Transient Orcas, the T11's, had been sighted 3 miles to the south of the lighthouse. Our passengers were thrilled to encounter these number one ocean predators. On our way home we stopped in at Race Rocks and saw several Harbor Seals, a Northern Elephant Seal and both California and Stellar sealions, all Pinnipeds that are prey for the Transient Orcas

The calm seas and sunny weather, plus the countless marine wildlife made for a stunning day on the water:)




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