With a report of J and K-pod at Trial Island heading northeast, and 15 excited passengers aboard the Sea Hawk, we departed from Roche Harbor at 11am. Expecting a bit longer journey until we could cross paths with the whales, we were delighted to have spotted them just south of Lime Kiln a few miles out from SJI. There, we were greeted by Granny (J2) and Onyx (L87), her adopted son, as well as a handful of others. We floated there in today's calm waters of Haro Straight, enjoying the warm sun, the sight of distant orcas in every direction, and the sound of their breaths. Soon enough, we chose to turn around and head north to see another part of J-pod. As we passed Lime Kiln, we could see groups of Lime Kiln patrons standing on the rocks while orcas swam by in both directions. Just north of Lime Kiln, we caught up with the J-16s. This was incredibly exciting for me and the guests, as Slick (J-16), and her oldest daughter Alki (J-36) both gave birth to new calves this winter. The two newest additions are easily recognized as newborns due to their tiny (6 foot) size in comparison to the adults, as well as the darker coloration of their eye patches. These calves will nurse solely on milk for one year, and then supplement their diet with milk and Salmon for the 3-4 years.
We wrapped up the trip with a visit to a family of Bald Eagles. We knew this was a family because there were two adults and two juveniles visible. Bald Eagles take 4-5 years to mature and develop the adult plumage (white head and tail).
Another great day on the Sea Hawk!
Naturalist Alex
M/V Sea Hawk, San Juan Outfitters