Unprecedented numbers of humpbacks in the region continue to mark what has been called the “humpback comeback,” a far cry from the very first sightings almost 10 years ago. “Big mama,” one of the original leaders of the comeback is still happily swimming the Salish waters, along with her new family.
However, the humpbacks aren’t the only stars of the show. Transient and Resident orcas love to steal the spotlight, especially J pod, part of a local group of orcas known as the Southern Resident community. Along with the whales, sea lions and harbor seals have recently been spotted cruising through our waters. Our very own onboard naturalist, Stephanie Raymond, has this special report.
“Last Wednesday’s foggy morning didn’t keep us from finding the whales! We spent a lovely afternoon with part of J pod along Kellett Bluff and Open Bay, on the west side of San Juan Island in Haro Strait. The babies were frisky and favored us with a breach, and they weren’t alone – we saw multiple breaches as the older whales spread around foraging.”
“On Sunday we were fortunate to get to see both Resident and Transient orca whales. We encountered the T65A family group of Transients just outside Friday Harbor, hunting as they cruised along the Shaw Island shoreline.”
“After spending some time with the pod, we headed out to Haro Strait and were favored with a visit from J14 Samish’s family (J2 Granny’s granddaughter, great-grand calves and great-great-grandson). The youngest whale was in a frisky mood and did a lot of breaching and tail slapping.”
“Monday was a humpback day! A sharp-eyed passenger was the first to spot a humpback in Possession Sound on our northbound leg, and during the whale and sea life search we crossed the Strait of Juan De Fuca to see a group of humpbacks off of Dungeness Spit. Among those whales was “Splitfin,” whose fin was injured in the past and looks split in two.”
“On our southbound leg, we saw that the Steller sea lions are back from their breeding grounds, right on schedule. Two of them decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather and were hauled out on Whale Rocks in Cattle Pass soaking in the sun. Many more should be returning soon!”
Looking for more cute babies? It’s currently pupping season for the harbor seals! Last week we saw dozens of harbor seals hauled out on the rocks watching their new pups play at Minor Island. There’s a whole circle of life in the Salish Sea waiting to be discovered. With the sunny weather up ahead, it’s the perfect time to get outdoors and experience marine life in the Pacific Northwest!
