Sunday, July 19, 2009

Wildlife Adventures Sunday July 19

The Ocean Magic with many international guests on board experienced an exciting day Sunday, July 19th. Under blue skies Capt. Shaun and crew headed the 9am, the 12.15pm and the 3.30pm trips east toward San Juan Island. On the 9am trip we encountered Minkie Whales at Hein Bank. These very fast whales worked the calm seas in the shallow water for small fish. On the 12:15 Ocean Magic we heaeded back to San Juan Island to where the Orca, the fish eating Killer Whales had been reported moving in.It was J Pod was traveling back and forth along the west side of San Juan Island foraging for their favourite food, Salmon and being monitored by the research team in their boat along with their scat-sniffing dog. There was some playful behaviours observed that included backward rolls, tail slaps, breaches and some spyhops. During the late afternoon trip we not only saw whales but also the largest colourful beach ball imaginable, cruising its way in the tide. J1, 'Ruffles ',the oldest male in J Pod, J2, 'Granny ', the oldest female and matriarch of J Pod, traveled north along San Juan Island and then turned south to join J 8, 'Spieden ' and others in the distance. It was a beautiful summer day, spent with 'Prince of Whales ', viewing those magnificent Orca in the productive waters of the Salish Sea.
Marie "Orca-Magic" and Clint "Orcawizard"

1 comment:

Maria said...

Thanks for capturing that beach ball and with the bird really gives you the idea of how big it is other wise we'd have no clue!!! that could be a hazard for our whale friends!