Friday, September 30, 2011

Incredible morning Superpod encounter! Sept 29th, 2011




 


























We headed out of the Harbour this morning at 9am and we were the only boat on the water with all 88 Southern Resident Orca off San Juan Island:)

Not long after we arrived on scene we witnessed a wonderful Cartwheel by one of the Orcas! For the remainder of the trip we watched as the Orcas spread out in foraging mode. We witnessed and also heard over our Hydrophone, some great action as the Orcas hunted and caught Salmon. Whilst the Hydrophone was down we also heard some great vocalizations as the Orcas chatted amongst themselves. Listening to Orcas in the wild is an amazing experience!

Apart from the Orcas we also saw Turkey Vultures gathering in thermals near Discovery Island, Harbor & Dall's Porpoise, Harbor Seals and a Great Blue Heron. Other Whale watching boats began to arrive only when we were on our way back home:)



Superpod off San Juan Island! Sept 29th, 2011
































Here are a few images by Ron Bates, from today's tours with Superpod, all 88 Southern Resident Orcas! During our 9am tour we were the only boat on scene for most of our time with the Orcas and then one research boat and Soundwatch joined us:)