Ian and Julie’s photo is another first in that is has multiple spy hops from a pod of killer whales. I remember the day but cannot recall the reason for this spy hopping. It obviously occurs when the orca want to see the above water activity which may be a fast moving boat, commercial fishing in the area and even saw spy hopping when one the “Whale Research Vessels” was flying a drone to get some pictures. Also note on shore in the right hand corner the campers on the beach watching the orca pass. There are numerous kayak camps along the shore which are very busy in the summer.
Bald Eagles
Bald Eagles are frequently sighted in our area. At times they can be seen in large numbers. This is usually where food supplies are high. For example this could be in areas with high concentrations of baitfish or along the rivers in the fall when the salmon are spawning. They are not migratory, but do move around with the food supply. As mentioned earlier when the salmon are spawning we often see many along the rivers, while there will be fewer along the coastline. With little need for camouflage their white head and tail feathers can be spotted easily. The female is slightly larger and her white head extends down a bit farther onto the body, but it is subtle. It takes these birds 4.5 – 5 years to acquire this unique plumage. As juveniles they are a brown colour. With exceptional eyesight and the ability to view 270 degrees they are understandably often seen in high perches and in trees near points and passageways.
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