Transient orcas generally form smaller and more variable social groupings than residents, roam over a larger area of the coastal waters, and their appearance in particular places is not so predictable. They feed primarily on sea mammals such as seals and sea lions. The name “killer whale” probably stems from observations of transient orcas hunting. Transients are characterized by more triangular and pointed dorsal fins than those of Residents (because they have a broader base), and their saddle patch is generally solid.
Tag Archives: Whale Watching
Good Day 4 of 4
And later in the day after a stop at Telegraph Cove on Vancouver Island to use a “civilized” bathroom we were visited by some humpback whales. I try and eat our picnic lunch is an area where the humpbacks are feeding and wait to see what “pops up”.
Good Day 3 of 4
Yes we did find the killer whales and spent an hour or so with them as they moved through Blackfish Sound. The guest photos from the day were much better than mine. I know this because it is part of the day that photographs are compared once all guest return to the lodge. In my defence I am more interested in getting photo that make for a good blog posting than the ideal photo to show friends (I have enough of those).
“Fluke” Shot
Some of our guests were very lucky to have a great phot opportunity with this Humpback Whale on a beautiful morning in Blackfish Sound. These whales frequent our waters during our season to feed on krill and small fish, such as herring. I hope they managed a good picture.
Humpback Whales Lunge Feed
This view of a humpback whales lunge feeding is from the top of it’s head. One can see the baleen hanging down over the lower jaw. As the mouth closes the water is forced out through the baleen and the herring are trapper inside to provide another meal. These whales have become common in out viewing area so we often see eight to ten different whales on a viewing day.
Whales Close 2 of 2
In this case the boat’s antenna helps to obscure the humpback whale fluking, however the intent of the photo is again to show that on occasion we do get close to that we are viewing. As the guide and picture taker it is often a “shot from the hip” rather than a planned and timed photo. Guest safety is number one priority over a good photo.
Whales Close 1 of 2
It must be another misty August morning in Johnstone Strait with a pod of killer whales on their rounds. The metal bar in the corner to the picture is the mount that holds the radar on my boat and gives an indication of the nearness of the orca. By noon the mist will have “burned off” to gives us another nice after noon to locate humpback whales, Steller seal ions, bald eagles etc. …
The views at Sailcone pt3
Lunch is served on the whale watching trip. On a calm day nothing beats tying up to a kelp bed and watching humpbacks while you enjoy your packed lunch. It looks like there is a humpback incoming
Stellar Sea Lions
Stellar Sea Lions are often seen on out tours and are common in large numbers from late August until the end of our season. Stellar Sea Lions are creatures of habit and will use the same rocks to haul out on year after year. Stellar Sea Lions do not migrate, but they do move throughout the season from resting, feeding and mating(rookery) areas. They eat a variety of fish, but can often be seen feeding on migrating salmon that pass through Blackfish Sound, where we spend a lot of time whale watching.
Humpback Flipper
Humpback whales are extremely manoeuvrable and often quite acrobatic. The reason for this is their long flippers. Humpback Whales have longer flippers then any other animal. They also have large bumps on their flippers called tubercles. These tubercles act like rudders, creating turbulence and reducing drag. Thanks to Annette for the photo
