Multiple pod calls audible.

So much for going east! - Not quite yet it seems. The whales have been stalled in the same general area since the last posting, with someone only lightly touching in at the rubbing beaches. The tide is now in full flood and this may help them decide. Today, we heard from Nick Templeman that the A11s, A35s and A73 were with the A30s near Nodales Channel, perhaps another incentive.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 00:20:40 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Good morning everyone. Things were quiet overnight, but we've heard a recent radio report of orcas headed west towards the Reserve. Soon, we may hear them. It's a wet & windy morning here.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 09:59:25 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We've begun hearing echolocation & G clan calls (sound like I31s) close to the Critical Point hydrophone. There may well be others headed west too.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 10:07:36 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Lots of movement now, groups are filing through & past the Ecological Reserve. So far we have heard I33s, A5s but more on the way.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 11:58:43 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Add I15, A1 and A4 calls to the list of whales up to Robson Bight.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:08:02 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It is really sounding like the whole gang is back, A30s, A36s, A12s, A4s,A5s,I15s, and I33s. Still moving west.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:54:46 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Actually these groups are spread from Telegraph Cove back to west of the Reserve.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:59:58 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

I should mention that the A36s are at the western end of Blackfish and so far today the I35s have been seen in the groups furthest west (I15s are included in this group.)
Helena
28 Aug 2007 13:10:59 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

As the A36s rushed through Blackney Pass from Blackfish Sound, the groups to the west of Blackney Pass turned back to the east, a few had ventured well into Weynton Pass before the turn.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 14:35:25 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The whales are not far off the entrance to Blackney Pass and CP area. Recently, A4s were the loudest. It is only 1/2 hour to the slack tide and then the tide will ebb. Will this be enough to encourage them all out via Blackney? Or will the stay Strait sid?
Helena
28 Aug 2007 17:04:14 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Definitely stayed Strait side.The calls were distant for so long we began to wonder if they were headed back to the west. Fortunately, calls got louder and we now believe the whales (the A12s,A30s,A4s.A5s,I15s,A36s have been heard) are headed to the Robson Bight area.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 18:43:10 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Getting even closer to Critical Point. The I31s need to be added to the list. No one left, the A36s came in. The wind has dropped (quite windy today),however, the rain continues.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 19:04:54 PDT

No orcas present.

And east they all went! - some 12 hours after arriving back from the east this morning.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 21:48:05 PDT

No orcas present.

We heard no calls overnight & think the various groups of orcas in the Strait yesterday are probably somewhere to the east of us (though we're not sure).
Helena
27 Aug 2007 07:17:01 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

A radio report of a small group of orcas heading west off Naka Creek about 40' ago suggests that at least one of the groups that has been in the east is returning to our area. We are listening.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 10:39:35 PDT

Superb sounds!!

We're listening to close calls from the I31s, I15s & A12s as they arrive in Robson Bight on their way to the west. A short while ago some of them went into the Main rubbing beach briefly.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 12:38:59 PDT

Orcas near mics.

An A5 group is passing CP, following after the I31s, A12s. The I15s and A36s are further away but also moving westward.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 14:19:29 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Since the last post: We think now that the I15s left via Weynton Pass at the time all the groups were opposite Telegraph Cove around 5pm. The I33s, A36s, A12s and A5s all then went back to the east. The A36s stalled off of the entrance of Blackney and eventually came north through the Pass. They were moving very quickly. The rest continued eastward and are now off Robson Bight.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 21:10:08 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Hmm... Just when we thought the whales were staging, getting ready to go past Critical Point, they stayed put. AND then the I15s turned up again so perhaps it was all about waiting for the I15s to catch up. Probably they didn't go out afterall. Will they go east now?
Helena
27 Aug 2007 21:55:10 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Sounds like they may be going to the east afterall.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 22:27:55 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We began hearing "R" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. Possibly, they're returning from the east.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 04:44:01 PDT

Distant calls audible.

After receiving a report of a group mid strait heading west in Johnstone Strait, there have been a few I31 calls midrange on the Critical Point hydrophone. CP has not yet seen the whales. Also, today anearlier report of a small group off Sointula (inside side of Malcolm Island) at around 8am. Could this be the Rs skipping out? Or perhaps transients? It is an unusual route for residents but not unheard of.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 11:33:24 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The I15s are also out there (east of CP, Johnstone Strait) with the I31s.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 12:28:48 PDT

Orcas near mics.

And A36s too?
Helena
26 Aug 2007 13:04:21 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Sorry, I am trying to do something else and the groups keep coming! There are more A1 calls and A5s as well. Some of the groups have gone in for a rub on their way west.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 13:59:06 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

And after awhile the A4s too.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 15:27:33 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

CP reports that the I15s have passed them and are between the bottom end (east) of Hanson Island and Big Bay. They passed fairly close to Cracroft, about 1/4 off. The I65s were first, followed by the I16s who were travelling with A37, and then the I27s. Just now, A11 passed with I33 and I110 very close to the camp. The males were offshore at about 5oom. More whales can be seen headed toward CP from the east.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 16:25:22 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Whales are eastbound once again, headed back to the Bight area.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 20:27:23 PDT

Superb sounds!!

We've been listening to a wonderful chorus of A & G clan calls in Robson Bight, near Critical Point. Unfortunately, boat noise is intruding & getting louder.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 21:11:32 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The I15s & others have reached the rubbing beaches.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 21:57:01 PDT

No orcas present.

We think the various groups are probably on their way to the east in Jonstone Strait. We are waiting (sleeping).
Helena
26 Aug 2007 22:33:29 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We're stil hearing faint calls on the Critical Point hdrophone, so not all the orcas have headed east (yet).
Helena
26 Aug 2007 22:55:01 PDT

No orcas present.

After a wonderful vocal time together in Robson Bight, and a session at the rubbing beaches, the orcas (I31s A30s) have (probably) continued on to the east in Johnstone Strait. We are waiting.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 01:51:45 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We began hearing the I15s & I31s close to the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. Sounds like they're returning from their trip to the east yestertday afternoon.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 06:49:10 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

We're listening to echolocation near the Critical Point hydrophone. It's possibly from the A30s, though we're not sure. It's a very foggy morning here.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 10:23:03 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The I15s and the I31s most likely left Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. The A30s most likely did not accompany them that far but returned to the Robson Bight area. They may be the group that has been sighted near Izumi Rock westbound. The description fits although we have not had any call that might confirm this information.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 12:14:02 PDT

Orcas near mics.

A38 and A39 passed offshore of CP headed west as the rest of the group continued west along Vancouver Island.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 13:28:51 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We're listening to the A30s as they approach Robson Bight. The A36s are in the far distance, traveling with several G clan groups (I15s, I31s, maybe others) who came into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass around 2:30pm & are now headed east.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 16:13:32 PDT

Boat noise

After a rub, the A30s are on the way back to the west again. We're hearing them on the Critical Point hydrophone, unfortunately with lots of boat noise. The other groups are still eastbound on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, now past Kaikash.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 18:13:52 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We've been listening to the I15s & I31s close to Critical Point, with an A1 group also nearby (probably the A36s). Meanwhile, the A30s have gone back to the beaches for another rub.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 19:16:21 PDT

Boat noise

Back to boat noise. We think all the orcas have headed east, out of the range of our hydrophones. We are waiting.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 21:10:23 PDT

Distant calls audible.

A short while ago we began to hear A4 calls (possibly the A24s) and then A30s off of the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 05:49:57 PDT

Distant calls audible.

And now distant R clan calls as well.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 05:54:57 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

This is shaping up to be a very interesting morning. The groups in the Strait, the A36s, I15s, I33s have moved into the entrance to Blackney Pass while part of the R7s and R2s and the A24s finished travelling south through Blackney Pass and "met" up with them. A52 and her calf are aslso just about through Blackney Pass while a larger group, the rest of the Rs, A4s and A30s are still in Blackfish Sound. The tide is turning to flood.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 08:48:12 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Crazy busy. After the meeting off the entrance to Blackney Pass the A36s came into Blackney Pass and headed north. A52 and her calf followed part way through the Pass but turned south again after getting half way. As the a36s disappeared into Blackfish a mixed group with A73, R13 and her calf, the rest of the A35s and A56 travelled south through Blackney. Eventually, A13 and A11 followed. We can still hear the A30s and the A36s on Flower Island occassionally. The I15s,A5s, I33s, A24s and the R2s and R7 all went back to the east afte their meeting off of the Blackney entrance.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 10:12:30 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

We've been listening to the I15s & A4s at the rubbing beaches for the past while. Meanwhile, the A30s have moved to the north of Blackfish Sound & the A36s are following behind.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 12:22:37 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The day just gets busier. A group of transient (T46s +) who were first seen about an hour ago in Weynton Pass have turned up off cracroft Point heading east. Meanwhile, it appears that the A30s have picked up the rest of the I31s and are headed back east in Queen Charlotte Strait. The A36s never went as far as the A30s in Queen Charlotte Strait have been in range from time to time. And finally (?) the A12s who must have gone east and not followed the big group out to the west two nights ago, are on their way west in Johnstone Strait and have past the Eve River.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 13:39:19 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s & remainder of the I31s (everyone except the I33s) have just traveled south through Blackney Pass, mixed up & spread out, & are now entering Johnstone Strait. Lovely sounds, too bad there's so much boat noise.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 16:05:07 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

As you may have guessed, the I31s and the A30s have moved on to the rubbing beaches. I31 calls at the moment. We are also still hearing the A36s at the western end of Hanson Island.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 18:46:13 PDT

Orcas near mics.

After finishing at the beaches the I31s (first) and the A30s (second) have come west to Robson Bight.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 19:26:56 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Lovely resting calls from the I31s between more energetic bouts from both the A30s and I31s. It sounds like they are moving back in toward Robson Bight. The A36s were last heard in Blackfish Sound a while ago.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 22:55:54 PDT

Distant calls audible.

All the groups headed north through Blackney Pass a short while ago. We're hearing occasional distant calls from some of them on the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 02:02:01 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We're still hearing most of the groups calling occasionaly on the Flower Island Hydrophone, so they are still in or near Blackfish Sound.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 04:29:23 PDT

Boat noise

The boat noise we've been hearing is from a cruise ship traveling north through Blackney Pass & Blackfish Sound.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 04:58:53 PDT

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since just before 5am & think that the various A & G clan groups we were listening to in Backfish Sound earlier this morning have (probably) moved on to the north. We are waiting.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 07:09:43 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

There are three threads we are following this morning. First, a group of transients showed up this morning in Blackfish Sound and continued west into Queen Charlotte Strait. Second, we heard A5 calls back in Johnstone Strait fairly close to Critical Point. This group went off to the beaches. There may be another group on the Cracroft side. Third, the majority of the group that went out this morning at 5am is off Malcolm Point in Queen Charlotte Strait. They were still going west when fisrt seen this morning but have since turned around and are moving back to the east.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 11:35:01 PDT

No orcas present.

Nice to be in the middle again. The A5s continued east this afternoon and no word, as of now, that they have turned. The BIG group in Queen Charlotte Strait is still eastbound but very slowly and are currently in the area east of Black Bluff
Helena
23 Aug 2007 15:46:52 PDT

Boat noise

The A5s are back and heading west along Cracroft Island opposite Robson Bight. The I15s, I33s, A30s and possibly the A24s are off Lizard Point slowly eastbound and closer to Port Hardy, the R2s & R7s have been picked up by the A11s. They have stalled there for the moment.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 17:10:38 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Nice set of calls from the A5s who are headed back east after cutting in close to CP, crossing the entrance to Blackney Pass & reaching the eastern end of Hanson Island. Were they trying to anticipate the groups from Queen Charlotte Strait?
Helena
23 Aug 2007 19:18:19 PDT

Superb sounds!!

We've been listening to the I15s & I33s, along with the A36s, as they make their way towards Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. Meanwhile, the A5s are in Robson Bight, near Critical Point, grabbing a bite (we're hearing constant echolocation from them on the CrPt hydrophone).
Helena
23 Aug 2007 20:38:21 PDT

Boat noise

Once they got into the Strait, the arriving orcas were immersed in persistent boat noise. The I15s, I33s & A36s are headed east towards Robson Bight & the A5s have passed beyond Critical Point, also eastbound.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 22:30:52 PDT

No orcas present.

For the moment at least, it looks like the A5s, I15s, I33s & A36s are all headed east. The last calls we heard were from the I15s about half an hour ago, when they touched into the rubbing beaches briefly.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 23:38:19 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We began hearing distant G clan calls on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. We're not yet sure which group, or where they are. Hopefully, the A30s have continued to the east.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 00:43:18 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The calls are closer to the Critical Point hydrphone now. Sounds like both A & G clan orcas are there, probably the I15s, I33s & A30s. The danger probably isn't as great as it was last night, but we'd still rather the whales were elsewhere.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 00:51:17 PDT

Superb sounds!!

It sounds like the A5s & A4s are in Robson Bight as well as the A30s, I15s & I33s. Quite a party, just wish it was happening elsewhere.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 02:39:24 PDT

Boat noise

Sigh. A very beautiful morning with low fog and calm seas. Earlier this morning, the A4s and A5s joined the I15s, I33s and the A30s, before 1am, in the area off Robson Bight. The whales stalled until about 3:15am when their calls grew quickly fainter. They may have shifted toward the Cracroft Island shore before moving back eastward in the short term. Calls ended by 4:30am.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 06:34:54 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We are once again hearing A1 calls approaching Robson Bight.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 07:19:59 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

In addition to the A1 calls (?A12s) we are hearing A4s as well. The whales are westbound once again, not quite up to the area opposite Blackney Pass.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 09:17:45 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s are there as well.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 09:30:49 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It is starting to sound like everyone is beginning to file back from the east.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 09:33:09 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The various groups have all turned (I15s off CP, others off Big Bay) and are headed back to the east again.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 10:58:10 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

As the "groups" (the A30s, A4s, A5s, I15s, I33s, A12s) continued eastward in Johnstone Strait we began to hear not only the A36s in Blackfish Sound BUT also R clan calls! Never rains but pours.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 19:28:39 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Sorry I have to make a correction. I was too excited about the Rs. Apparently, they were heard in johnstone Strait not Blackfish Sound! The A36s are in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 19:51:14 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Whales are back at the beaches. However, others (A11s,A5s,A30s) are very vocal on Critical Point.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 20:19:33 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Recently, the A4s then the A5s have taken a turn at the beaches. The A36s are still vocal in Blackfish Sound. No further R calls - a mystery!
Helena
22 Aug 2007 21:08:33 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

A lot of back and forth.! The calls had faded off after the last rub, and for a while, it seemed the whales may have gone east. But they ( A30s, A4s and A5s so far) have returned west and at the moment not far from Critical Point. Today, the whales were in mixed groups for a good portion of the day. It was a very hot day which probably furthered evaporation of the spill. There was still some slick around the eastern end of Hanson Island. But it was a very thin, although greasy layer, by the afternoon. Apparently, no damaged birds have been found and there does not appear to be any more fuel coming from the scene of the accident. Clean-up crews are still at work and DFO scientists are monitoring the whales.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 23:28:36 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I15s are opposite CP and moving on toward the entrance to Blackney Pass. The I33s are nearby. The other groups, the A4s and A5s seem like they are further offshore of Cracroft, passing the entrance to Blackney Pass. The A30s are not far ahead.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 00:18:49 PDT

Orcas near mics.

After getting to the entrance of Blackney, and after a few (perhaps some of the I15s) even ventured in to the Pass, the groups have turned around and are now re-approaching the Reserve.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 01:14:22 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A4s, A5s, I33s, I15s and the A30s seem to have moved eastward from Robson Bight since 3am. We are hearing a few distant calls on the rubbing beach system.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 03:32:58 PDT

No orcas present.

We've heard no calls since around 3:30am & think the various groups continued to the east. We won't mind at all if they stay there for a while!
Helena
21 Aug 2007 07:57:21 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

"As" are back at the beaches!
Helena
21 Aug 2007 08:37:17 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s came into Robson Bight and then continued west. The warden boat is monitoring the whales closely. The slick was still present in the Bight and the whales unfortunately surfaced in the thick of it. They seem to behaving "normally", foraging and travelling slowly. They are rather quiet. CP now reports that the A30s are crossing the Strait toward Cracroft. This is good news as the slick seems to be concentrated on the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 10:46:31 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I33s and most likely soon the I15s have arrived back in the area adjacent to the Ecological Reserve. The A30s turned when between Little Kaikash and Blinkhorn and are headed to the entrance of Blackney Pass where they have stopped to forage. A bit of a surprise, the A12s are reported to be east bound at Camp Point (as of 12pm) travelling with the A35s and the A24s. Other groups were also headed east headed toward Camp Point. This means that the A12s got back to the Strait sometime last night, possibly when the other groups were so excited when off the entrance of Blackney Pass. We never heard A12 calls so their entrance was a quiet one.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 12:50:12 PDT

Distant calls audible.

As the I33s and the I15s continue west from the Sophia Islands, the A30s have slipped through Blackney Pass headed for Blackfish Sound.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 13:30:37 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The I15s and the I33s crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass and are continuing west along the Hanson Island shore. Part of the slick has touched shore along the Johnstone Strait side of Hanson Island and these two groups just swam through a lot of it. Further east, headed for Chatham Point, are the surprising A12s, A4s (all) & A5s (all). The sun is out now and although the last of the afternoon burst, the temperature on the water will apparently help evaporate some of the spilled fuel. Fingers still crossed.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 14:41:11 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The I15s are at the rubbing beaches and the I33s are probably not far behind. We are also, and have been hearing A1 calls in Johnstone Strait. This was occuring while the A30s were in Blackfish Sound. With the A12s reported to the far east we are left wondering what is happening. Stay tuned, hopefully it will become clearer.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 18:42:45 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s are travelling back toward Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. The I15s and ? the I33s continued east from the beaches.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 19:55:32 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are near to the Robson Bight area after travelling past CP to the east.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 21:45:41 PDT

Superb sounds!!

A30s are very vocal, they are in the bight, sounds very excited for something! The I15s are off BP. We haven't heard I33s for a while but maybe they are with the I15s.
Tomoko
20 Aug 2007 00:53:57 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The I15s (and maybe I33s) went north through Blackney Pass. When they got into Blackfish sound, we heard A1 calls with them. Did the A12s come down to pick them up? The A30s are still somewhere near the bight.
Tomoko
20 Aug 2007 02:46:57 PDT

No orcas present.

It was a busy night! After the I15s,A30s, and I33s arrived in Robson Bight and did all that beautiful calling, they stalled off the Ecological Reserve for a while. In the end, the I15s and the I33s peeled away from the A30s and headed to the entrance of Blackney Pass around 12:30am. The I15s and the I33s travelled through Blackney Pass to the north, (they cleared Blackney Pass by 1:30am) leaving the A30s heading further east in the Strait. The last I15/I33 in Blackfish Sound calls were at 2:07am. We also heard a few distant surprise A1 calls in Blackfish Sound. There had beena few A12 like calls in the Strait earlier and we will review these and the A1 calls in Blackfish Sound to see if any of the A12s came back "up" the Strait and out with the I15s/I33s. If so, perhaps that was what all the waiitng off the Reserve was about between 12 and 1 am. The last A30 calls were at 3:13am.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 07:32:58 PDT

No orcas present.

An added note: Apparently the A36s were closer yesterday than we thought. The MacKays report that they were off the Foster Islands (Queen Charlotte Strait) by 3pm. Perhaps, they were who we heard distantly in Blackfish Sound when the I15s and I33 went through at 2am? Nice thought.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 07:50:52 PDT

Distant calls audible.

After a radio report of a group of 15 plus just entering Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass we began to hear, through the horrific boat noise, a few distant I15 calls. They may still have the I33s with them. We may also be hearing As.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 09:00:46 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Busy, reports are coming in that there are westbound whales as well as the groups returning and heading east. Possibly, the various A groups (some or even all?) have come up from the east. The scene will get a bit clearer in a while when there is visual information. We are hampered by the constant boat noise. We are hearing As as well as the G clan calls. Exciting!
Helena
20 Aug 2007 09:10:55 PDT

Orcas near mics.

A lot has been happening. The A12s came up from the east, met up with the I15s off of CP, turned and went back toward Vancouver Island BUT then the A12s pulled away and headed off to the west along Hanson Island. The I15s and the I33s continued toward Robson Bight.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 11:45:17 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

At 11:50am a barge loaded with equipment tipped over in Robson Bight spilling its load of equipment into the water near Critical Point. The authorities are on scene assessing the damage. The I15s and the I33s were close when this happened. They grouped up and headed off to the east. We have heard some of their calls (and recently rubs) on the rubbing beach system since. The A12s, at about 12:20pm, turned around off Turn Point and are now eastbound off Hanson Island.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 12:51:40 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A12s just travelled north through Blackney Pass into Blackfish Sound. They have just become vocal. The I15s and the I33s continued east.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 14:48:21 PDT

No orcas present.

This is one time I am happy to report that there are no whales calling. The A12s,as far as we know continued west and the I15s and the I33s continued east. There are a lot of whales in the general area and this has to be a concern. The oil slick is growing and the news so far is very troublesome. We will try to keep you updated as information comes in.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 17:11:55 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

We just began to hear calls and a rub at the main beach. It sounds like it might be the A30s so far.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 21:01:21 PDT

Orcas near mics.

We've begun hearing the calls of the A30s, & echolocation, on the Critical Point hydrophone. Sounds like the A30s are foraging in Robson Bight. Normally, we would be glad, but tonight we are afraid for them.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 21:18:49 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We are now hearing A4 calls off the main rubbing beach. They must be following the A30s west.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:06:43 PDT

Distant calls audible.

And now the A5s!
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:16:53 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

And then the I15s and probably the I33s.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:32:10 PDT

Superb sounds!!

As this worrisome parade continues we would like to thank the Wardens, the Cliff volunteers, for their constant concern and efforts throughout the day.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:42:07 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s continue to lead the other groups to the west. We have been able to hear them approach the area in range of CP and the entrance to Blackney Pass for the last while. The others are spread "back" to the Reserve.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 23:29:16 PDT

No orcas present.

Good Morning. We believe the groups continued east after passing by the Ecological Reserve last night around 11pm.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 08:18:32 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

We've heard several reports recently & think that at least some of the groups that headed east in Johnstone Strait last night are in Nodales Channel. It also seems that at least some of them turned back to the west. Within the last hour, we heard a report of a group of orcas heading west quickly at Naka Creek, then orcas were sighted in Robson Bight, possibly the A30s, then we heard I 15 calls on the Critical Point hydrophone, and moments ago we heard rubbing sounds on the RB hydrophone. Seems like we have an interesting day already!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 10:20:54 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The close calls we've been recently have been from the I15s, who were close to Cracroft Point. They are now heading west in Johnstone Strait, past Balckney Pass, with other groups spread out across the Strait to the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 12:11:24 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Around 1:30pm the A30s, I15s and the I33s turned around while near Turn Point (western end of Hanson Island) in Johnstone Strait. They then slowly travelled east to the entrance of Blackney Pass. The A30s became "stuck" off CP for quite a while but they groups may have moved on a bit with the now flooding tide. Currently we are mostly listening to the I33s.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 16:05:20 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The three groups got as far as Critical Point and then turned around. They are now travelling slowly westward, rather as if they are trying to find the energy for another party but can't quite be bothered. Boat noise continues with the constant traffic in Johnstone Strait. Other than that, it is a simply gorgeous day,one that encourages a relaxed, why bother about anything kind of summer day.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 17:25:14 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s, the the I33s and possibly the I15s have moved in the direction of CP.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 19:03:33 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The whales turned yet again and they are all grouped up, on their own after a busy day being the centre of attention, headed back to the Ecological Reserve. Almost there!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 20:46:00 PDT

Superb sounds!!

They made it!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 21:08:26 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The whales are back. We are hearing A4 calls on CRPT hydrophone.
Tomoko
18 Aug 2007 02:34:38 PDT

Orcas near mics.

At 1:34am we heard close echo location on Critical Point. This was followed by a couple of calls and then a long gap. And then just now the A4s have begun calling once more. The return from the east has begun!
Helena
18 Aug 2007 02:34:43 PDT

Boat noise

Johnstone Strait (& everywhere else around us) is full of intense boat noise this morning, as one cruise ship after another passes though on the way north. Eventually, hopefully, the parade will end. Meanwhile, the I15s arrived in Robson Bight a little before 5am, and the A4s are still nearby. We are hearing their calls occasionally, through the boat noise.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 06:51:53 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The boat noise has gone away, at least for the moment. We're listening to the I15s, who have moved further west in the Strait and are close to the CP hydrophone.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 07:12:54 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The I33s are there as well!
Helena
18 Aug 2007 07:24:10 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

We're hearing echolocation on the Critical Point hydrophone - possibly, more orcas from the east are returning (though we're not sure). Meanwhile, the I15 & I33 groups have continued to the west in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 08:36:07 PDT

Orcas near mics.

It sounds like the A5s have returned from the east & are in Robson Bight, close to the CrPt hydrophone!
Helena
18 Aug 2007 08:49:00 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

After the a5s arrived in robson Bight, the other groups, who had travelled west, turned off Bauza Cove, before 9am and then proceded east. At least the I15s and I33s returned. At the moment we are not sure where the A4s got to. The I15s and the I33s are just entering the Reserve while the A5s have become somewhat distant on the Critical Point station.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 11:19:49 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

As the sleepy whales (the A5s,I15s and I33s) in Jonhstone Strait continue their rest, the A30s and the A11s have been reported heading west toward Kelesey Bay. There is also a group heading east toward Donegal Head, out of Queen Charlotte Strait. No ids as of yet. The tide will flood in about 1/2 hour. The A36s, by the way, are over by Blunden Harbour.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 13:56:17 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Nap time might be over. The I15s are vocal on CP so they must be moving back to the west. The A12s are coming in from the west but it is still a bit early to tell which route they will choose. Earlier, the nap seemed to end with a few A4 calls.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 15:03:37 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

After the boat noise (more cruise ships) was over we began hearing A1 & A4 calls at the rubbing beaches! We're not sure, but the A30s may have returned from their (fast) trip to the east. Possibly, the A4 calls at the beaches are from the A11s. Meanwhile, the I15s, I33s, A5s & A12s are slowly making their way east in the Strait... we're hearing them on the CP & PI hydrophones.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 18:42:46 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Since the last post: The A30s and the A11s (A11,A56, A13 and A73) travelled to the west from the Bight and showed up off CP around 7:40pm. There they joined the BIG group (the I15s, the rest of the A4s, the A5s, the I33s and the newly arrived back A12s) in a BIG mix-up. Eventually, despite the ebbing tide, they all moved over to the Vancouver Island side and continued east. They are approaching Robson Bight right now. Thanks to everyone for all the reports today; Nick for keeping track of the A30s and A11s, Marie on the "Cliff" for keeping track of movements east of CP, Paul Tixier for watching from CP, and the whale watch boats for keeping everyone up-to-date throughout the day. It may be a busy night!
Helena
18 Aug 2007 21:34:25 PDT

No orcas present.

Here we are in the middle again. The groups who headed east after the lovely afternoon rub have not returned yet and he A36s remaine somewhere to the west. We are waiting.
Helena
17 Aug 2007 07:53:13 PDT

No orcas present.

We are still in the middle and still waiting.
Helena
17 Aug 2007 15:22:32 PDT

No orcas present.

We have heard from "below". (Thanks Nick!) Some of the groups are on their way back. The lead group is up to Bear Point. One or two groups stayed behind in Nodales Channel but Nick saw all the A5s and heard "I" calls pass him by on their way west.
Helena
17 Aug 2007 15:44:48 PDT

Performing maintenance

We began our 2007 live audio webcast about an hour ago. The sounds are being brought to you courtesy of JSTREAM, who are so kindly donating their services once again. We can't thank JSTREAM enough for their help, and are also very grateful to AXIS, KARHU and SPACEPORT in Japan, and Jesse Gordon in Canada, all of whom played key roles and donated their time and talents, so you can enjoy hearing the voices we love so much! THANKS TO ALL!
LIVE staff
16 Aug 2007 06:30:28 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

We have orcas all around us this morning! The I15s, I31s, A36s & A24s are in Blackfish Sound, and at least some of the A4s & A12s are in Johnstone Strait. We've been hearing their calls all night & the sun has just risen on another lovely day.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 06:40:14 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A30s and the I33s just travelled south through Blackney Pass and are about to enter Johnstone Strait. Their travels were preceded just a few calls in Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile. the A11s and the A5s are still resting in Johnstone Strait and the I15s,A36s and the A24s are to the west.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 12:57:08 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A24s and the I15sfollowed the A30s and the I33s to Johnstone Strait. They elected to follow the Hanson Island shore with I43 and I16 in the lead.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 13:37:54 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

just to make life interesting: a group has moved into the main rubbing beach! (A4 calls)
Helena
16 Aug 2007 13:50:47 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Both the A30s and the A5s have gone in for a rub as well as the A4s.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 15:46:01 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The whales have headed off to the east from the rubbing beaches after an incredibly long (4 hours) rubbing session during which all of the groups (A4s, A5s, A30s, I15s, I33s) visited and revisited the Main rubbing beach. What a rub!
Helena
16 Aug 2007 18:40:02 PDT

No orcas present.

It seems that all the groups headed off to the east together after their marathon rub. We last heard a report, around 8pm, that they were at the Adams River, still in a relaxed clump, heading east. We are waiting.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 22:52:33 PDT

No orcas present.

We heard a close and intense bout of A12 calls off Cracroft Point at 4:10am. These calls became distant and ended at 5:30am. It's likely that the calls were from the A34s going back into Johnstone Strait and then heading east, though we're not sure, as A12 & A33 were in the Strait yesterday, independently of the A34s.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 07:03:03 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

We began hearing echolocation close to the Critical Point hydrophone shortly before 8am. There were also a few "N3" calls, so we think a group of A clan orcas must be heading west in Robson Bight.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 08:04:40 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are back! They are just off Robson Bight. Last night they were in Nodales (about as far east as you can get in Johnstone Strait at 8pm). Do they have company?
Helena
15 Aug 2007 08:57:55 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The parade has begun. There are A4s, G clan calls along with the A30s. All groups are westbound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 09:28:00 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The groups in Johnstone Strait who continued west, maybe as far as Beaver Cove, turned 40 minutes ago, and are now headed east spread out across Johnstone Strait. The A36s are still in Queen Charlotte Strait but they are reported to be with another group westbound from Lizard Point.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 12:46:31 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s left Johnstone via Weynton Pass and are at the western end of Blackfish Sound. The extra group with the A36s has yet to be substantiated and the remaining groups in Johnstone Strait are slowly moving to the east still. No word (or calls) on who was in Robson Bight heading west a short whle ago.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 13:38:01 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

While the A30s linger in Blackfish Sound and the A36s remain in Queen Charlotte Strait, on the Johnstone Strait side, the whales (the A4s, A12s and I31s (maybe just the I33s)have headed east to the rubbing beaches. The I15s are still a bit further west and we have not heard A5 calls clearly today, leaving us, wondering if they are still very far east.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 15:54:31 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

There has been quite a bit of movement. The I15s, A4s, I31s (I33s at least) and A12s moved west in the Strait to the entrance of Blackney Pass while the A30s have moved around in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 17:45:57 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

In fact the A30s are moving toward Blackney Pass and the others have moved off to the west a bit.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 17:49:44 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The I15s zipped through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. This left the A4s in Johnstone Strait and most likely (until we hear differently) the A12s, I33s as well. The A30s were last heard in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 22:43:24 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

I should have added that we heard from Nick Templeman that all the A5s were in eastern Johnstone Strait but that they were on their way west this evening.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 22:50:03 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Another development! The A36s have dropped "down" to Blackfish Sound from their Queen Charlotte Strait perch - perhaps it was the I15s who encouraged them nearer.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 22:58:08 PDT

No orcas present.

We last heard the I15s (briefly) at the rubbing beaches around 2:30am. They were heading east, along with the !31s & A12s. It's a lovely & calm sunny morning here. We are waiting.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 07:53:09 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Interesting day shaping up. The A34s are eastbound in Queen Charlotte Strait. Last night they accompanied the I15s and I31s to Blackney Pass. We thought they had continued with the other two groups east in Johnstone Strait. However, at some point they must have pulled away and headed back west to meet up with the A36s again. Right now, the I31s have returned from the east and are moving slowly west (hardly any calls) toward Cracroft Point. The A30s, A12 & A33, the I15s, A4s and A5s are still east of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 12:00:11 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Both the I15s and the I31s travelled west in Johnstone Strait to the western end of Hanson Island. At 1:35pm they turned and are now travelling east along the Hanson Island shore to the entrance of Blackney Pass.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 14:05:34 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The I15s and the I33s (not all of the I31s were seen today) are in the midst of an afternoon nap, drifting eastward past the Ecological Reserve. The A36s and the A34s stalled off of Lizard Point and spent most of the day foraging.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 18:38:38 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A34s and the A36s are now moving. They are at Donegal Head and have yet to decide on Weynton Pass or Blackfish Sound. Just a few calls.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 18:53:29 PDT

No orcas present.

The A36s and the A34s faded away perhaps back into Queen Charlotte Strait. They had been quite vocal at the "top" end of Blackfish Sound and for a while it sounded like they might venture in. BUT....???
Helena
14 Aug 2007 22:38:07 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Calls from the I31s,I15s, A4s and A5s gradually faded away until just after 1am. We had the impression these groups were westbound at that time and may have left Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. This morning, after 6am, we have heard (briefly so far) a group come up to Critical Point. We have yet to determine who is there but last night we had lost track of the A30s.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 06:52:16 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

I had forgotten that we also had lost track of A12 and A33 and here they are, travelling north through Blackney Pass quickly!
Helena
13 Aug 2007 08:15:02 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

A12 and A33 just rushed south through Blackney Pass. They were located this morning east of Lizard Point in Queen Charlotte Strait. We have just learned that a couple of whales have been spotted entering the east end of the Reserve heading west. Also, from "below" the A30s, A11s, and some of the A5s are eastbound, heading toward bear Point. Apparently they spent 2 hours off of Camp Point waiting for the tide to turn to flood.. There has been no sighting of the rest of the A12s (the A34s so far today - they left yesterday via Blackfish Sound.)
Helena
13 Aug 2007 13:50:22 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The group off the eastern end turned out to be the I15s. They went in for a brief rub and presumably kept going west. A12 and A33 are headed toward them and they are calling now. We are having to rethink our impression about what happened last night: instead of going west the A5s, A4s went east with the A30s. The I15s followed suit. Our remaining question, and perhaps it will onn be answered, is what happened to the I31s? The was a reoort this morning of a group of 9 -12 off of Bold Head. We heard no calls and they disappeared into the fog before any boats were out.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 14:14:52 PDT

Distant calls audible.

A12 and A33 apparently stalled off of Cracroft Point after getting into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 14:48:57 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The I31s finally did show up in Johnstone Strait coming west t o CP with the I15s.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 17:34:54 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

A busy night! Shooting stars, excited whales. The I15s and the I31s went through Weynton Pass earlier and met up with the A34s. A12 ansd A33 had rushed up to Blackfish earlier as well but they returned back to Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass on their own. They continued east and have recently passed Critical Point. Meanwhile, the I15s and Co, after a deep rest off the western end of Blackfish Sound, began to move east into Blackney Pass with the A34s and possibly others. There are a lot of blows going through the Pass. The lead groups are about to enter Johnstone Strait.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 23:22:28 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The A36s waited for the I15s and the I31s and brought them down Queen Charlotte Strait to the A30s and the A11s. These groups travelled through Blackney Pass and are now on their way to Johnstone Strait.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 00:11:36 PDT

No orcas present.

All the groups that came in just before midight (A36s,I15s & I31s) along with the A30s and A11s) carried on to the east in Johnstone Strait. They were past the Ecological Reserve by just after 2am. They seemed to be in a hurry but a few (I15s + As) had time to touch in at the main rubbing beach on their way. We've heard nothing since & it's a very foggy morning here.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 07:39:46 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It is quite the parade. All the groups are filing up from the east, stopping for a rub or two, moving on to CP and beyond. The A12s have come along for the party and the A5s, the rest of the A4s as well. All the A1s are present, in company with the I15s & I31s. Might be a good exercise to figure out how many whales are here today!
Helena
12 Aug 2007 13:47:58 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

After the A30s & A11s finished their rub they came west to the Bight, arriving about the time the others groups turned and headed back to the east. Some of the groups got as far as Hidden Cove (Telegraph Cove area).
Helena
12 Aug 2007 15:48:09 PDT

Boat noise

The A36 brothers have just headed north through Blackney Pass, all together, and are now in Blackfish Sound. The other groups (A11s, A12s, A30s, I31s, I15s) are still in Johnstone Strait, between Blackney Pass & Robson Bight, and headed east. We're listening to their calls amidst persistent boat noise.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 17:27:10 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Time to catch up. The A36s left the area via Blackney Pass & travelling through Blackfish Sound. The A34s (no one saw A12 and A33!) followed. We think the A30s pulled the I31s and I15s east in Johnstone Strait for a while leaving the A4s and the A5s around the Robson Bight area. The I31s and the I15s have returned to the Bight just a short while ago. The groups are very vocal!
Helena
12 Aug 2007 23:00:27 PDT

No orcas present.

Another busy night with the A4s, A5s and A30s continuing to move back and forth in Johnstone Strait. In the end, the A30s and an A4 (?A11) group followed the rest of the A4s and A5s (who had disappeared east of the Reserve before midnight) back to Critical Point and beyond. This morning there have been reports of whales, east of the Reserve, asof a couple of hours ago.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 09:03:51 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

This has become a busy orca day once again. This morning a small group of transients (T2B, the T60s) were spotted south of Stubbs Island. They most likely were involved in a Dalls porpoise hunt north of Stubss. (Jared Towers/Sea Smoke report). From there they moved through the Pearse Island and have just now turned toward Johnstone Strait from Cormorant Island. Meanwhile, the A30s and the A11s have returned from the east and are currently westbound in the Strait. Also, the A36s were off Bere point this morning and just recently two more groups (the I31s and I15s, Bill MacKay report) are headed east through Queen Charlottte Strait from the Port Hardy area.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 13:23:16 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s and the A11s continued west as far as Blinkhorn and then turned around to the east. They were quite spread out across the Strait before the turn.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 16:00:51 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

After a few nice and interesting calls off the entrance to Blackney Pass, the A30s and the A11s (A13,A11,A73,A56) travelled through Blackney Pass to the north.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 18:01:05 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We are finally beginning to hear the incoming groups on Flower Island. They sound like they are still not moving very fast but they have the slack and then soon the flood tide with them.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 22:52:38 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

At 2:15am whales, starting with the A30s and followed by A5s and A4s, rounded the corner at Critical Point, to the Robson Bight area. They have basically stalled in the general area east of Cracroft Point and the Ecological Reserve since then. The calls have been at times quite lovely and continuous. We have not yet so far heard A12s but the A11s may have come back.
Helena
10 Aug 2007 06:19:25 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A11s led the A30s, the A5s and possibly the A24s through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound just a short while ago. There looked like there was a least one other group in the crowd. Very few calls and prior to coming in only the A30s were vocal. Earlier we heard A4s,A30s and A5s, starting after 2am (see previous notes).
Helena
10 Aug 2007 11:11:39 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

This morning's groups have, after spending time off the top end of Blackfish Sound, gone through Weynton Passage and east in Johnstone Strait. The A35s were added to the list of A11s, A30s, all the A5s and A24s.
Helena
10 Aug 2007 16:08:17 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Awhile ago the A30s headed off to the west. The A11s were following but turned around again. Soon after all the rest of the groups began a trek up Johnstone Strait. As they did so, the A30s "appeared" acoustically once again. All the groups are not far from the CP and entrance to Blackney Pass. The calls have been quite continuous and are only now slowing down.
Helena
10 Aug 2007 22:18:16 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s and the I11s are trekking back west from the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 07:28:47 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

As the A30s and the I11s continue west another group has rounded the corner from the east at Critical Point.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 08:00:57 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

It was the A12s who turned up off Critical Point. Can the A4s and the A5s be far behind?
Helena
09 Aug 2007 08:31:05 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

All the groups are converging at the eastern end of Hanson Island in Johnstone Strait. The A12s, A4s andA5sall came up from the east and headed to Cracroft Point. Meanwhile the A30s and the I11s, after turning around off Blinkhorn, headed east along the Hanson Island side. Right now the A30s and the I11s are quiet (and have been so for a while after the turn) and the A12s, A5s and A4s are sproadically vocal.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 10:39:51 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s and the I11s have "merged" with the A25s and the A23s off of CP while the A12s cross over toward the Bight from the Sophias. So far we have not actually heard any A4s and Nick Templeman reports that the A8s and the A11s (? all of them) stayed east last night and are not far from Rock Point (Chatham Point area.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 11:14:19 PDT

Boat noise

This has been our most complicated day to date. After the A25s and the A23s socialised with the A30s and the I11s there was a split, with the A5s turning east and the I11s and A30s turning west. The A12s and the A24s never did make it to CP at this time. Instead they turned east and crossed over from the Sophias. They went all the way to the eastern boundary where they turned west once more. By 3pm they were opposite Robson Bight. From there they moved up to the CP area (only the A12s were vocal) and crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass. Meanwhile the A30s and the I11s had continued west toward Telegraph Cove. From there the A30s turned back east before 5pm while the I11s moved into Weynton Pass. The A12s had moved back east as well and just before 6pm they were opposite Robson Bight once again. By this time, the groups had begun to shut down for a rest. The A23s and A25s may have gone all the way to the beaches for a very short rub and by 5:30pm they were back off Critical Point. The short of this is that the groups are in their various groups heading east in different locations throughout the Strait. The I11s are still undecided in the entrance to Weynton Passage. The A36s are still likely in Queen Charlotte Strait, way to the west. And the A8s and A11 are still westbound in the lower Johnstone Strait.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 18:26:53 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

After all of the activity today the end of the day held one more surprise! The T100s came out of White Beach Pass and travelled south through Blackney Pass toward Johnstone Strait. There were no calls and the IDs were provided by Jared Towers. The I11s may have finally made up their minds by heading out toward Queen Charlotte Strait just a short while ago. All the whales in the Strait may have drifted east. The last we heard was echo location on Critical Point (Robson Bight). at 8:33pm.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 21:05:40 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Good Morning! Early this morning, just after 4am, we began to hear calls in Blackfish Sound. These turned out to be A1 (?A30) and A4 (?A11). Calls ended one hour later. Then at 6am calls started once again. This time it was A5 and A4. The whales are just now in sight, making their way south through Blackney, just ahead of the ebb (to flood) tide.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 06:48:39 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

A11 and A13 were the last two through from Blackfish Sound. Everyone is now in Johnstone Strait heading east toward or in the Ecological Reserve. The groupings were very mixed and spread out as they went through but we believe all the A5s were there and the two A11 matriines (including Springer).
Helena
08 Aug 2007 08:43:12 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

As the A11s and the A5s enjoy themselves at the rubbing beaches the A30s and the I11s (following) passed slowly and silently through Blackney Pass. These two groups are in Johnstone Strait now. The rub continues.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 09:58:34 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s went for a rub and then travelled off to the eastern boundary of the Reserve. The I11s followed and currently we can hear them off the main beach. The A5s and the A4s disappeared out of range to the east a while ago.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 13:58:25 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s and the I11s have turned around and are back off Robson Bight. Houdini and her calf (the most famous humpback of this area!) is in the Bight as well.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 14:25:17 PDT

Orcas near mics.

As the A30s and the I11s continue to the west past Kaikash Creek, the A36s have turned up inside Robson Bight.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 16:39:39 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

After the A36s turned up in the Bight the A30s and the I11s turned around off the western end of Johnstone Strait and went east along the Vancouver Island shore. The A36s hurried westward and entered Blackney Pass just after 7pm. They continued into Blackfish Sound and beyond. The A30s and the I11s continued east toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 21:26:18 PDT

No orcas present.

Early this morning, the A12s continued west in Johnstone Strait and turned into Blackney Pass. By 2:30am they were heading through Blackfish Sound. It was unclear whether the A24s stayed with the A12s. We last heard their calls around 11:30pm when they were still in the Strait. The A30s were ahead of both these groups having entered Blackfish Sound by 10:30pm. The A36s are most likely still east in Johnstone Strait. This morning whales were seen in Queen Charlotte Strait around 6am.
Helena
07 Aug 2007 08:02:01 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s just turned up, almost exactly where they left off 12 hours ago! They are travelling south through Blackney Pass at the moment. We cannot see them because of the thick fog but we can hear their calls and blows. The A12s AND the A24s are eastbound in Queen Charlotte Strait headed for Donegal Head (east end of Malcolm Island).
Helena
07 Aug 2007 11:32:47 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A12s and the A24s continued east once in johnstone strait. They came in via Weynton Pass. The A30s took themselves off to the rubbing beaches. When finished there they returned west, first to Robson Bight, and then further where they connected with A12 and A33 (the A34s and the A24s were pretty preoccupied with each other all day long). The A30s then continued west and are currently between Bauza and Blinkhorn (east of Telegraph Cove) on the Vancouver Island side. The A12s and Co are off the Ecological Reserve heading east. There was a rumour that the little R7 group might be tucked in with the A24s and the A34s. An interesting note was when the A12s and the A24s came into the Strait the A24s did most of the talking west of Cracroft Point and then when the groups were east of Cracroft Point the A12s were most vocal.
Helena
07 Aug 2007 18:22:48 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s are back at the western end of Blackfish Sound. The A36s at 7:30pm were westbound at Ripple Point (still very far east) and the A12s and the A24s most likely continued east from the rubing beaches.
helena
07 Aug 2007 21:19:12 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A36s were at he rubbing beach a little while ago.
Tomoko
06 Aug 2007 00:06:49 PDT

Orcas hunting fish.

After moving eastward last night there are whales back near Critical Point.
Helena
06 Aug 2007 08:05:52 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are back from the east. From the echolocation we're been hearing, it sounds like they're finding a bite to eat in Robson Bight!
Helena
06 Aug 2007 08:21:15 PDT

Orcas near mics.

At 11:55am the A30s, who had continued west to Telegraph Cove and the entrance of Weynton Pass from Robson Bight, turned and crossed over to the Hanson Island side and proceded eastward. They have just past Cracroft Point.
Helena
06 Aug 2007 13:56:54 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Ataround 3:30pm the a30s turned while in the Ecological Reserve and headed west. They passed CP and continued west. After a gap in calls they have once again begun calling. Perhaps they are on their way east again?
Helena
06 Aug 2007 19:33:21 PDT

Distant calls audible.

A rather interesting development. Possibly both the A12s and the A24s have made it back to Robson Bight from the east while the A30s may have ended up in Blackfish Sound. The tracking continues to be difficult as the whales are creating large gaps between calling bouts.
Helena
06 Aug 2007 23:24:39 PDT

No orcas present.

Early this morning there were A4 calls (?A24s) in Johnstone Strait. Tracking was difficult thanks to the boat noise and the distant nature of the calls. We did not hear the A12s or A36s once they disappeared to the west yesterday evening. No word about the A30s who most likely are still to the east.
Helena
05 Aug 2007 07:52:50 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

As the A12s and the A36s make their way east out of Queen Charlotte Strait we began to hear a few rubs at the main beach in the Ecological Reserve. No calls yet so we are not sure if it is the A30s or the A24s or both coming from the east.
Helena
05 Aug 2007 15:21:34 PDT

Distant calls audible.

It turned out to be the A24s who was rubbing just after 3pm. Now they are heading west, we just started picking up their calls on CP hydrophone. The A12s came into the Strait through Weynton Pass, going east.
Tomoko
05 Aug 2007 18:11:52 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Here is what has been happening today. The A24s came up from the east and headed west. The a12s travelled eastward through Queen Charlotte Strait with the A36s, however, only the A12s went through Weynton Pass and into Johnstone Strait. They then travelled east. After going west the A24s turned in time to join the A34s and head east together. As they were so engaged, the A36s, decided to finally come all the way through Blackney Pass and enter Johnstone Strait. This was about 6:30 pm. Some of the whales are now going through the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
05 Aug 2007 20:37:06 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

After a long and wonderful rub the A12s and the A24s headed back west to Robson Bight. The A36s may still be nearby. The ebbing tide might encourage a bigger move west. At 4:30pm, Nic Templeman reported that the A30s were westbound off Kelsey Bay.
Helena
05 Aug 2007 22:55:53 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A12s and the A36s headed north through Blackney Pass. We are not sure if the A24s were with them.
Tomoko
04 Aug 2007 03:00:59 PDT

No orcas present.

Last night the A36s were heard accompanying the A12s to the entrance of Blackney Pass. The A12s definitely went through Blackney Pass to Blackfish Sound and it is possible the A36s were still with them. The story is less clear for the A24s as their calls ended for us much earlier while they were still in Johnstone Strait so they too may or may not have continued with the A12s to the west. For us, the A1 calls faded just before 3am when they became distant in Blackfish Sound. We will see what develops this morning.
Helena
04 Aug 2007 07:39:22 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The a12s are on their way back to Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass while the A36s (yes, they must have gone west with the A12s earlier) are foraging at the western end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
04 Aug 2007 10:12:34 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A12s are now eastbound in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
04 Aug 2007 11:20:32 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A12s did the unusual move of not heading east once in the Strait. Instead they went west and are near Beaver Cove (west of Telegraph Cove). The A36s are still off the western end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
04 Aug 2007 13:11:55 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A12s moved toward Robson Bight and the beaches beyond. All of the group did not have a rub as they most likely were spread out across the Strait as they went east. We have not heard the A36s in Blackfish Sound for quite a while.
Helena
04 Aug 2007 17:59:58 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A12s have returned west to the Robson Bight area. The A36s are apparently still in Blackfish Sound, still foraging off the very western end.
Helena
04 Aug 2007 19:06:44 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A12s are travelling (but also foraging) north through Blackney Pass. Just before they entered, the A36s dropped down closer to Blackney Pass from Blackfish Sound BUT did not come into view.
Helena
04 Aug 2007 21:28:37 PDT

Boat noise

We did not hear any calls overnight.
Helena
03 Aug 2007 08:12:54 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A30s are foraging in Blackfish Sound. The A36s are off Lizard Point.
Helena
03 Aug 2007 09:25:39 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are making their way south through Blackney Pass, stopping now and then to have a bite to eat.
Helena
03 Aug 2007 15:06:42 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s have gone in for a rub. The A24s and hte A12s are hurrying up from the east and have now passed St Vicents Bight. The A36s are still to the west.
Helena
03 Aug 2007 17:17:20 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A36s finally made it to Johnstone Strait BUT they went through Weynton Pass and NOT past us. We have yet to see them in the daytime. They are headed east. The A12s have also made back to these parts and are currently headed west past Critical Point. Sooooo?... where are the A30s? They were at the beaches just a while ago. AND where are the A24s. Perhaps these questions will be answered soon.
Helena
03 Aug 2007 20:33:13 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A24s have arrived back from the east and have rejoined the A12s and the A36s off of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Aug 2007 22:50:43 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A36s have been foraging in Blackfish Sound for the past several hours. Meanwhile, the A30s are in western Johnstone Strait. We're hearing occasional calls from them on the Critical Point hydrophone.
Helena
02 Aug 2007 07:23:10 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s, who have been moving around Johnstone Strait since 3am, are eastbound once again toward Robson Bight. We have not heard the A36s, who earlier flirted twice with coming into Blackney Pass, since around 6am. No word on the A24s, Rs or A12s so far this morning.
Helena
02 Aug 2007 09:44:03 PDT

No orcas present.

It is always interesting being around the residents. Last night, there was an exchange. The A24s and the R7s went off with the waiting A36 brothers. They have been spotted in Queen Charlotte Strait by Seasmoke Charters this morning. This all happened without any noticeable acoustic exchanges. This left the A30s to turn eastward by themselves. As they move further east there has been a report of a group (?the A12s) moving westward from Camp Point.
Helena
02 Aug 2007 12:38:22 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

We have been busy trying to keep track of the various groups in the area. The A24s, true to form, were silent until they reached Johnstone Strait. And it wasn't until they reached the beaches that they actually made any noises at all. The A36s keep waxing and waning toward Blackney Pass, never quite making it (so far at least) and the A30s have returned from the east and hooked up with the A24s off the Ecologial Reserve. The R7s, we believe, kept going west in Queen Charlotte Strait after spending part of the morning with the A24s and the A36s. All of this would be easier if the whales kept in range and vocal but then it wouldn't be as interesting or challenging.
Helena
02 Aug 2007 20:23:43 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

At least the A30s just travelled north through Blackney Pass, perhaps to visit with the entrenched A36s in Blackfish Sound. We have lost track of the A24s since their turn at the beaches earlier. The A12s have not yet showed up from the east either. Time will tell.
Helena
02 Aug 2007 22:44:34 PDT

No orcas present.

Another quiet night. We believe the A24s continued east past the Ecological Reserve and that the A30s continued west through Queen Charlotte Strait. The A12s should still be to the east. Very foggy this morning.
Helena
01 Aug 2007 08:36:21 PDT

No orcas present.

A surprise for us! The a30s just went through Blackney Pass headed for Johnstone Strait. This was our first daytime sighting of this group. They have a small group of Rs with them (perhaps the R2/7 group) and the A24s have come up from the east to greet them. The A24s are past Boat Bay and the other two groups are now past Cracroft Point. Party? Summer?
Helena
01 Aug 2007 18:29:31 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

The A30s and the ?R7s are travelling east in Johnstone Strait and have made acoustic contact with the A24s.
Helena
01 Aug 2007 18:54:06 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The orcas are at the rubbing beach after calling beautifully off Critical Point. The A12s were last reported still in the vicinity of Nodales Channel this evening.
Helena
01 Aug 2007 20:24:25 PDT

No orcas present.

We believe the A30s, R7s and A24s went off to the east.
Helena
01 Aug 2007 21:50:05 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

We just heard blows and echo location in Blackney Pass. Not sure who is out there. They disappeared back into Blackfish Sound.
Helena
01 Aug 2007 22:43:31 PDT

No orcas present.

We did not hear any calls overnight.
Helena
31 Jul 2007 07:28:07 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s and the A24s have made their way back to the Ecological Reserve from the east leaving the A12s "below" and heading towards Nodales Channel. So far the A24s have touched in at the Main beach.
Helena
31 Jul 2007 15:12:11 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A24s certainly have a strong work ethic! They and the A30s rushed up from the east, pushed hard against the tide, and did not stop until they went through Weynton Pass to the western end of Blackfish Sound. After a bout of A30 calls the A24s, still travelling against the tide, came east to Blackney Pass. They are no longer in a rush - the A30s are nowhere in sight leaving us to wonder if they have gone west. The evening is still young. The A24s just began to call.
Helena
31 Jul 2007 21:21:15 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A24s have returned to Johnstone Strait. Are they on their way to find the A12s? Busy whales!
Helena
31 Jul 2007 21:58:23 PDT

Orcas near mics.

While the A12s and company make their way through Queen Charlotte Strait slowly, the A24s have returned to the Bight from the east and are making their way westward. The A30s were reported in Frederick Arm (eastern Johnstone Strait) this morning. The night was uneventful.
Helena
30 Jul 2007 12:08:56 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A12s came back to Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. a33 led the way, followed by A12 and even furhter behind, A55. The A34s porpoised their way through after the others. When they got into the Strait we could here the distant A24s answering the A12 calls.
Helena
30 Jul 2007 15:25:12 PDT

No orcas present.

The A12s and the A24s have continued east in Johnstone Strait after someone (there were no calls) went in for a brief rub. The Lukwa reported that A12 and A33 were well ahead of the A24s and the A34s who were being slowed down by a group of dolphins who were travelling with them eastward.
Helena
30 Jul 2007 20:28:16 PDT

No orcas present.

I forgot to add that the A30s were west bound at Ripple Point earlier in the evening. (Thanks Nick for the report).
Helena
30 Jul 2007 20:29:25 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A30s are back! They are heading into Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass, spread out. We can hear their welcome calls on the LL & PI hyrdophones. It's hard to hear their blows through the misty drizzle & easterly wind, but there's no doubt they are there. If it wasn't for the weather, which feels like fall we'd be tempted to think summer has begun!
Helena & Paul
29 Jul 2007 00:46:59 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A30s are at the Rubbing Beaches.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2007 03:57:30 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

Hmmm.... we just had the A5s and the A12s go through Blackney pass in very mixed fashion. They have headed east and may have been joined by the A36s.
Helena
29 Jul 2007 12:12:36 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

There are A4 call in the mix as well. There is a small group reported at Blinkhorn and we wonder if the A35s are there. The others got as far as the Bight and turned back to the west. A30s were seen earlier this morning off Port Neville (east of here) with possibly the A24s.
Helena
29 Jul 2007 13:39:12 PDT

Superb sounds!!

After the A36s merged with the A35s (who had been sitting off Blinkhorn before moving east to Kaikash Creek) the whales crossed over to the entrance oF Blackney Pass and for a while everyone went west. Behind them the A12s and the A5s were moving west as well. After reaching the entrance to Blackney Pass they all looked like they were going to head back east but they then stalled. Although drifting and changing direction they have been very vocal. Word has reached us that there are other groups in Queen Charlotte Strait heading this direction. Despite the constant boat noise the calls have been constant and clear, everyone chatting at once.
Helena
29 Jul 2007 15:50:25 PDT

Multiple pod calls audible.

After shuffling back and forth in Johnstone Strait all the groups (the A5s, A35s and the A12s) finally left via Blackney Pass on the ebb. Prior to this,the A36s left the strait via Weynton Pass and headed to Blackfish Sound where they acoustically interacted with the small A11 group (including Springer) as they made their way through Blackfish Sound toward Blackney Pass. The a36s continued west by themselves. Just after the A11s came into our view we became aware of the whales exiting Johnstone Strait. The A11s turned and led everyone away into Blackfish Sound. There were not many calls during all of this. way. The A30s apparently continued eastward to Nodales Channel. We do not know where the A24s are at the moment.
Helena
29 Jul 2007 20:22:42 PDT

No orcas present.

The A24s have been moving around the area very quietly so tracking is challenging. But we were hoping the A24s might repeat yesterday'd early morning movement but so far the morning has been uneventful. Grey, overcast, no fog.
Helena
28 Jul 2007 08:32:16 PDT

No orcas present.

There maybe some excitment afoote! Today, MacKay Whale watching found the A30s headed east north of Port Hardy and apparently, they are pulling others with them. Thanks to Stubbs Island for the relay of this information. Nick also reported in: apparently the A24s got together with the A36s fairly far to the east of here around 11am. The "brothers" have lured the A24s further eastward, of course. In the middle of all of this activity we are waiting patiently and following the reports of minkes (thanks to Sea Smoke Charters for that info), humpbacks etc.
Helena
28 Jul 2007 17:12:20 PDT

No orcas present.

The A30s are off Lizard Point. The A24s and the A36s are west bound recently out of Nodales. Dolphins are leaping all over Blackney Pass.
Helena
28 Jul 2007 20:14:39 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

For us it was a quiet night but a small group of orcas managed to slip by silently this morning. They headed north out of Johnstone Strait and through Blackney Pass. Last night, the A24s were last seen still heading east (could it have been them this morning?) and the A36s were still hanging out just inside Nodales Channel.
Helena
27 Jul 2007 07:58:32 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

It has been a slow day for the A24s. They were the group who went through Blackney Pass before 7am. They spent the day in Queen Charlotte Strait.They are in Blackney Pass right now working their way slowly through against the current. They are taking advantage of the tide by foraging as they go. "Progress" is slow and relaxed. A78 breached just before they started to slip backwards towards the north again. it may be a while before we find out how determined they are to get back to Johnstone Strait or whether they bide their time until the turn of the tide at 11pm. They are not vocal, not even echol locating so far. The A36s were reported to have left Nodales Channel at 1pm and sort of moving west although they were still not far from Chatham Point.
Helena
27 Jul 2007 20:51:22 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Looks like the A24s might make it after all. They finally cleared our view on their way to Johnstone Strait. They are still silent.
Helena
27 Jul 2007 21:20:19 PDT

No orcas present.

Between 12:25amand 3:30 am the A24s travelled west in Johnstone Strait and north through Blackney Pass. We believe the A36s are still east as the last report (thanks, Nick) said that they were last seen yesterday evening in Nodales Channel.
Helena
26 Jul 2007 07:47:24 PDT

No orcas present.

A further morning update: 7 orcas were seen this morning heading west through Queen Charlotte Strait at Black Bluff. There were apparently males in the group so we wonder now if the A36s joined up with the A24s rather than remaining east as we first thought. The MacKays also report that acruiseship sighted two large groups heading east just south of Port Hardy. Itmay get busy yet!
Helena
26 Jul 2007 08:17:10 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

It has turned out that the A36s did remain east and this morning the A24s turned around and are now eastbound from Lizard Point.
Helena
26 Jul 2007 10:38:06 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A24s made it all the way back to the Strait via blackney Pass. They headed quickly to the east and are now off the Main rubbing beach.
Helena
26 Jul 2007 16:46:27 PDT

No orcas present.

We have fixed our internet problem and so can once again post comments. The morning before last the A36s came back to the area. They travelled through Blackney Pass and on to eastern Johnstone Strait. Following several hours behind were the A24s. Prior to these visits, we had the C10s, C6s and D7s pass through. They followed (by a day or so) the A12s, A11s, A35s, A43s and A51s back out past Port Hardy. All in all it has been busy but with considerable gaps in the action around these parts.
Helena & Paul
25 Jul 2007 13:51:12 PDT

Boat noise

The A36s and the A24s are together BUT they only got 1/2 the way back to Kelsey Bay (Ripple Point) before turning and heading back toward Nodales Channel at the eastern end of Johnstone Strait.
Helena
25 Jul 2007 15:06:02 PDT

Performing maintenance

Hello everyone! Our regular internet connection is down, so we're reduced to cell phone dial up & can only post occasinal updates. Please bear with us while we try to solve the problem (it may take a while). Thanks, & all our best wishes to you all.
Paul & Helena
21 Jul 2007 18:53:07 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

Just now, the A5s are at the rubbing beaches, where they've been for the past hour. The A11s are headed east in Johnstone Strait towards the Ecological Reserve at Robson Bight, & the rest of the A4s are in Blackfish Sound, heading towards the Strait. Also in the Strait today are the A12s, though we're not sure where they are at the moment. Much further to the east are the Cs (both C6s & C10s) and probably all the Ds. Things orca have certainly become much more summerlike in the last day! The weather is quite different - rainy & cool, and a welcome change for our parched forest & garden.
Paul & Helena
21 Jul 2007 19:01:03 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A12s went North through Blackney pass. Their calls are getting distant on FI hydrophone.
Tomoko
19 Jul 2007 02:39:07 PDT

Boat noise

Today the whales (the a12s) have spent the day in the eastern parts of johnstone Strait. At 1:30pm the Naiad Explorer reported that they had turned west off Camp Point.
Helena
18 Jul 2007 16:29:35 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A12s have made it as far west as the rubbing beaches.
Helena
18 Jul 2007 22:13:19 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Still travelling west through the Ecological Reserve, the A12s are passing Critical Point. They sound like they may be a bit spread out as they travel west.
Helena
18 Jul 2007 22:58:21 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Good morning! We think the A12s returned to johnstone Strait this morning. For the moment, the calls have dropped off after someone passed closely to Cracroft Point.
Helena
17 Jul 2007 05:17:55 PDT

Superb sounds!!

The A12s continued to the east after entering the Strait. we are listening to their echoey calls in the Bight.
Tomoko
17 Jul 2007 06:34:09 PDT

Distant calls audible.

It has been a busy day with the A12s using Johnstone this morning, then leaving via Weynton Pass for Queen Charlotte Strait, then eventually returning via Weynton Pass once more this evening and now full circle on the day, heading east past Critical Point.
Helena
17 Jul 2007 23:37:02 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Since about 3am we have been listening to the A12s travel back into the area via Blackfish Sound, Blackney Pass and then Johnstone Strait.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 06:39:39 PDT

Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.

The A12s rounded Critical Point ashort while ago andare now at the beaches.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 07:50:20 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The A12s turned around to the west shortly after passing the rubbing beaches. They are somewhat spread out, shore to shore, with the majority on the Vancouver Island side, inside the Reserve. There are also humpbacks and dolphins in the same vicinity.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 11:40:31 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

The a12s have continued to move westward. They crossed to the Hanson island side and are currently approaching the Weynton Pass area.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 15:00:42 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A12s turned a short while ago and are now eastbound in the Strait.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 15:56:14 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A12s are continuing eastward.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 16:59:41 PDT

Boat noise

After passing Critical Point the A12s went to the Main rubbing beach for a short session.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 19:05:53 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A12s are back to Critical Point.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 19:15:19 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A12s are heading into Blackfish Sound from Blackney Pass, on a swiftly ebbing tide, calling as they go.
Helena
16 Jul 2007 21:53:08 PDT

No orcas present.

All is pretty quiet so far today. Most likely the groups that were here yesterday (the A12s, A11s, A73 and A8s) were spotted in Goletas Channel heading west this morning. They left this area early evening via Blackney Pass. A few dolphins and humpbacks remain in the area.
Helena
15 Jul 2007 13:50:51 PDT

No orcas present.

A little update. Apparently yesterday's groups stalled, turned and are headed east ythrough Goletas. Thanks to MacKay Whale Watch.
Helena
15 Jul 2007 13:56:25 PDT

No orcas present.

The 5 year Springer Reunion is in progress in Telegraph Cove and there are a lot of fingers crossed that she and her family and friends will come back from eastern Johnstone Strait by this afternoon. All was quiet over night (except boat noise, of course) and so we believe they are still east. Yesterday, T14 went through the area generating some excitment.
Helena
14 Jul 2007 09:03:51 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Guess what? The whales have returned from the east no sooner than the last post. They are off Robson Bight heading west. Sweet guys they let us sleep!
Helena
14 Jul 2007 09:16:29 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Today was rather wonderful. The Springer Reunion was scheduled to go out on their whale watch, thanks to Stubbs Island, at 2pm. just before the hour struck the A12s led the march up the Strait to just shy of Telegraph Cove. The A11s with Springer were in the rear. A short while later the whales turned and proceded back to the east. They are passing through the Ecological Reserve at the moment. The A8s were travelling with the A35s closer to the Cracroft Island side while the A12s were midstrait and the A11s closer to the Vancouver Island side and now in the lead.
Helena
14 Jul 2007 16:53:59 PDT

Orcas near mics.

Just a little over an hour ago we awoke to R clan calls in Blackfish Sound. As these calls grew more distant blows were heard in Blackney pass heading south. When the blows went around the "corner" and into Johnstone Strait we began to hear A4s and A12s and so far no further R clan calls. The whales are headed east in the Strait.
Helena


Orcas near mics.

Still no more Rs but there are now also A5 calls in with the A12s and A4s.
Helena
12 Jul 2007 04:43:35 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Things might be progressing! This morning there have been two reports (thanks to the MacKays) of fairly large sized groups of orca,heading eastward (our direction), from Cape Caution and opposite Port Hardy. This means they are still fairly far away but it is the first sign of any activity for quite a while. Stay tuned.
Helena
11 Jul 2007 09:17:55 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

More word from the far west. The update comes from the Mackays. Near Port Hardy they saw the Rs and a bit later the A11s (and yes, Springer) and possibly the I11s as well. They are still a long way off and may yet turn back to the west but the excitment is certainly mounting.
Helena
11 Jul 2007 15:33:29 PDT

No orcas present.

We are still waiting! Meanwhile, two humpbacks came into Blackney Pass last night and were here again, heading north, this morning.
Helena
09 Jul 2007 10:10:17 PDT

No orcas present.

Wel,l it has been a few days now and still no sign of the northern residents. The southern Ks & L2s rushed through on their way south but no other orcas have stepped in to fill the vacuum. Several humpbacks have continued to move around the area and an occassional minke has been sighted. Meanwhile, we are waiting!
Helena
05 Jul 2007 11:38:18 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We had southern residents today. They came from the north, one group went through weynton, other group passed in front of orcalab. they were very vocal and sounds like all headed east. very rare to have them here.
Tomoko
02 Jul 2007 17:37:44 PDT

Distant calls audible.

We were listening calls from several families since 4am; at least someone from A1 and R-clan. they were in Blackfish sound that time, but stopped calling about an hour ago. We are not sure which direction they have gone, back to North or to Weynton pass.
Tomoko
30 Jun 2007 05:55:30 PDT

Distant calls audible.

what a surprise! A30s are back! their calls are on Flower Island hydrophone.
Tomoko
30 Jun 2007 10:54:54 PDT

No orcas present.

We don't believe the A12s returned after heading west in Blackfish Sound on the 23rd. Interesting they were in AND out so quickly after a fast quick survey.
Helena
25 Jun 2007 21:53:52 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Very exciting! The resident season has started - the A12s have returned. Currently, they westbound off the western boundary of Blackfish Sound. So far they have been totally silent except for a bit of echo location.
Helena
23 Jun 2007 13:20:44 PDT

Distant calls audible.

Finally, we have heard our first call! The A12s have moved back to Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. This morning they were apparently seen at 6:30am off lizard point when they were making their way into the area. This is the first call we have heard since they got "home".
Helena
23 Jun 2007 15:38:48 PDT

Orcas near mics.

The A12s have become slightly more vocal as they move in closer to Robson Bight. They may be a bit spread out. The tide is now flooding and the southeaster has calmed down.
Helena
23 Jun 2007 18:37:07 PDT

Orcas near mics.

After a break we are again hearing the A12s close to Critical Point in Robson Bight.
Helena
23 Jun 2007 20:09:05 PDT

Distant calls audible.

It seems like the A12s are moving back to the west in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
23 Jun 2007 21:23:18 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Round and round they go where they... The A12s went north through Blackney Pass for the 2nd time today and are once again in Blackfish Sound, only this time they are very vocal!
Helena
23 Jun 2007 22:26:52 PDT

Distant calls audible.

The A12s are moving very fast through Blackfish Sound. Their calls are rapidly growing more distant.
Helena
23 Jun 2007 22:36:08 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

A small group of transients went through Blackney Pass this morning headed to Blackfish Sound. Two days ago, Jared Towers reported that T20,21 59, 59A, 59A1 were eastbound in Johnstone Strait. Humpbacks,minke, dolphins and dalls porpoise continue to be a daily presence.
Helena
22 Jun 2007 08:29:26 PDT

No orcas present.

Still just hints of activity. The humpbacks and minke whales are still keeping everyone's attention and there are still reports of orca groups wandering Queen Charlotte Strait near Pine Island. Very exciting is a rare, unique report via the MacKays, of two sperm whales also near Pine Island.
Helena
17 Jun 2007 09:06:19 PDT

No orcas present.

Humpbacks and minke whales on a Johnstone Strait-Blackfish Sound -Queen Charlotte Strait circuit these days.
Helena
13 Jun 2007 16:21:40 PDT

No orcas present.

June is rolling on. Stubbs Island Whale Watch has informed us that they have recently seen at least two mum/calf humpback pairs, a single humpback individual, a graywhale (just yesterday, and a minke (today). Further north, CetaceaLab continues to see northern residents (both As and Gs).
Helena
12 Jun 2007 19:48:59 PDT

No orcas present.

"Something's happening...." Reports are in from CetaceaLab of Gs and As recently in their area. Also, via the MacKays, a report, yesterday of two groups of orcas off pine Issland in the late afternoon. One group had at least 10 members. Stormy day here today but a rainbow broke through over Johnstone Strait not too long ago.
Helena
09 Jun 2007 18:44:29 PDT

No orcas present.

An interesting postscript: about 9 transients were seen heading west past Port McNeill around 7:45pm. This was possibly a different group from the group who were vocal in Blackfish Sound just 20 minutes earlier. Thanks to Bill and Donna MacKay for the report. Busy night!
Helena
31 May 2007 20:23:15 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Yesterday, Stubbs Island Whale Watch found a group of transients off the western end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
23 May 2007 08:01:46 PDT

No orcas present.

A couple of sightings to add. On May 14th the same group of transients came back into Blackney Pass later in the day. Farewell Harbour, out for their first sport fishing of the season spotted them in the entrance of Blackney Pass and gave us the heads up. It was early evening but we were able to watch the group travel north through the Pass. Then yesterday, the Lukwa (Stubbs Island), on the lookout for a reported humpback, found the T2s in Weynton Pass very close to some Dalls Porpoise. Further north, there have been a few northern resident encounters off the central coast. It certainly feels as if the season is beginning to ramp up!
Helena
16 May 2007 13:19:17

No calls but orcas nearby

Still have one group lurking in the area. Today, a group of 5 was seen heading west towards Alder Bay. There was a young baby in the group. Thanks to Bill and Wendy for the report.
Helena
11 May 2007 15:32:14 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Cruise ships and cruising transients this morning! A group of 5 transients were in Blackney Pass from 6:15 to about 7am. They headed north and at 8:15am they were mid channel at the western end of Blackfish Sound pointed toward Donegal Head. There were no calls and the group had one male and 4 others.
Helena
14 May 2007 08:45:43 PDT

No orcas present.

The area seems very busy with transients these days.Yesterday, yet another group of transients were seen near Port McNeill. Thanks to the new MacKay grandparents (visit their website) for the latest report.
Helena
08 May 2007 09:21:06 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

Again we have heard transient calls. However, the calls only lasted a very brief time and we have not been able to figure out where the whales are in the area. We will hope they resume calling soon.
Helena
07 May 2007 14:35:51 PDT

Superb sounds!!

We just had a long session with very vocal and visable transtients (4) in Blackney Pass. Their behaviours and the numerous gulls circling about suggests they must have completed a successful hunt. They have now travelled into Blackfish Sound but are still vocal.
Helena
04 May 2007 19:57:34 PDT

No calls but orcas nearby

A group of 4 transients just passed south through Blackney Pass. One male accompanied 2 females and a calf. They were for a time very interested in a sealion but we don't believe they made a kill. The other sealions clustered in the water became quite agitated as the transients passed. Things have since settled down.
Helena
03 May 2007 08:14:38 PDT

Superb sounds!!

Well... after only distant sightings and uneventful orca days...transients are vocal in Blackfish Sound just now.
Helena
01 May 2007 17:28:24 PDT

No orcas present.

April has been rather tempermental with various storms hitting the coast alternating with lovely spring days. Over the past week there were a couple of reports of possible transient sightings near Alert Bay and we continue to hear dolphins from time to time.
Helena
21 Apr 2007 23:30:04 PDT