Orcas hunting fish.
The A36s and A12s are making their way to the east, in the Bight now.
Tomoko
31 Jul 2010 00:29:43 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12s and A36s are still in the strait. and Sounds like B-subclan whales are in Blackfish sound.
Tomoko
31 Jul 2010 06:02:46 PDT
Boat noise
Foggy morning. A12s and A36s left rubbing beach just before 8am. Group of whales (this must be the B-sunclan group) have seen in Blackfish Sound 7am this morning, heading west.
Tomoko
31 Jul 2010 10:18:33 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The C6s just passed Orcalab headed south to the strait.
Tomoko
31 Jul 2010 11:35:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12s and A36s are back from the east. maybe they heard C6s. We re hearing A1 calls on RB and C calls on CRPT.
Tomoko
31 Jul 2010 12:30:45 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
A36s and A12s are at Rubbing beach. Sounds excited.
Tomoko
31 Jul 2010 12:51:43 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12s and A36s turned east after rub. C6s are opposite Boat bay.
Tomoko
31 Jul 2010 13:03:11 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s and the A34s carried on to the west. A Paul and I headed back to Hanson Island in the late afternoon around 5pm the whales were opposite CP and Kaikash Creek area fairly spread out. We continued to hear faint distant calls through boat noise ( a pack of cruise ships and tugs went through Blackney Pass on their way to Johnstone Strait). The calls have been quite intermittent. As far as we know the C6s continued their journey to the east.
Helena
31 Jul 2010 21:26:30 PDT
Distant calls audible.
At least the A36s are getting louder once again.
Helena
31 Jul 2010 21:32:44 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A1 groups sound as if they are approaching the Ecological Reserve from the west.
Helena
31 Jul 2010 22:03:03 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We're listening to these wonderful calls, without boat noise, on the Critical Point hydrophone. Sounds like the A1s are back in Robson Bight.
Helena
31 Jul 2010 23:10:27 PDT
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Distant calls audible.
A5 calls on FI hydrophone. Sounds lkie the A8s went north through Blackney Pass.
Tomoko
30 Jul 2010 03:13:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After A8s have gone to the north, we started hearing A12s and A36s coming back from the east. Sounded like they had food breakfast. right now they are off Blinkhorn. And there is a report of whales off Lizerd point this morning, this group must be A8s. We are not sure where A11s are.
Tomoko
30 Jul 2010 10:22:33 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Whales are still sleeping. Marie on the Cliff reported A12 is in between 2 A36 boys, A34s are behind them, in a nice resting line. They are mid strait opposite Critical point now.
Tomoko
30 Jul 2010 14:59:07 PDT
No orcas present.
We heard no calls for a while. We are not sure which direction they went.
Tomoko
30 Jul 2010 22:09:43 PDT
A5 calls on FI hydrophone. Sounds lkie the A8s went north through Blackney Pass.
Tomoko
30 Jul 2010 03:13:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After A8s have gone to the north, we started hearing A12s and A36s coming back from the east. Sounded like they had food breakfast. right now they are off Blinkhorn. And there is a report of whales off Lizerd point this morning, this group must be A8s. We are not sure where A11s are.
Tomoko
30 Jul 2010 10:22:33 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Whales are still sleeping. Marie on the Cliff reported A12 is in between 2 A36 boys, A34s are behind them, in a nice resting line. They are mid strait opposite Critical point now.
Tomoko
30 Jul 2010 14:59:07 PDT
No orcas present.
We heard no calls for a while. We are not sure which direction they went.
Tomoko
30 Jul 2010 22:09:43 PDT
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Distant calls audible.
We are hearing distant A4 and A5 calls on RB. Must be the A11s and A8s coming back from the east. Not sure where A12s and A36s are now.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 03:29:51 PDT
Superb sounds!!
A12s and A36s didn't leave the area. We started hearing them on CRPT hydrophone, while A11s and A8s are visitting Rubbing beach.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 04:27:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
All the whales have turned east. Marie on the Cliff saw A34s and A11s for sure and the others slowly going east, passed CRPT.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 09:42:31 PDT
No orcas present.
Marie on the Cliff Reported the whales are opposite Adam river, still heading east very slowly in a resting line.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 15:45:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We started hearing A5 calls on Rubbing beach hydrophone. sounds like the whales are coming back from the east!
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 22:25:22 PDT
We are hearing distant A4 and A5 calls on RB. Must be the A11s and A8s coming back from the east. Not sure where A12s and A36s are now.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 03:29:51 PDT
Superb sounds!!
A12s and A36s didn't leave the area. We started hearing them on CRPT hydrophone, while A11s and A8s are visitting Rubbing beach.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 04:27:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
All the whales have turned east. Marie on the Cliff saw A34s and A11s for sure and the others slowly going east, passed CRPT.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 09:42:31 PDT
No orcas present.
Marie on the Cliff Reported the whales are opposite Adam river, still heading east very slowly in a resting line.
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 15:45:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We started hearing A5 calls on Rubbing beach hydrophone. sounds like the whales are coming back from the east!
Tomoko
29 Jul 2010 22:25:22 PDT
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
No orcas present.
We had a quiet night. No report of the A12s, A36s, A11s and A8s who has gone to the east. But there is a report of whales in North, near Scarlet point. Not sure about the direction and how many.
Tomoko
28 Jul 2010 11:30:59 PDT
No orcas present.
The A11s and A8s are off Ripple point, westing. And there is a report of the whales off Kelsey bay, also westing, it means coming back this way (this group must be the A12s and A36s). They are picking up speed, so hopefully we can hear them this evening!!
Tomoko
28 Jul 2010 13:57:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
They are back. a little while ago we strated hearing A12s and A36s calls on Rubbing Beach hydrophone. Someone had a short rub.
Tomoko
28 Jul 2010 20:59:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
They came up to Critical point. we are hearing their calls and echo location.
Tomoko
28 Jul 2010 21:09:21 PDT
We had a quiet night. No report of the A12s, A36s, A11s and A8s who has gone to the east. But there is a report of whales in North, near Scarlet point. Not sure about the direction and how many.
Tomoko
28 Jul 2010 11:30:59 PDT
No orcas present.
The A11s and A8s are off Ripple point, westing. And there is a report of the whales off Kelsey bay, also westing, it means coming back this way (this group must be the A12s and A36s). They are picking up speed, so hopefully we can hear them this evening!!
Tomoko
28 Jul 2010 13:57:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
They are back. a little while ago we strated hearing A12s and A36s calls on Rubbing Beach hydrophone. Someone had a short rub.
Tomoko
28 Jul 2010 20:59:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
They came up to Critical point. we are hearing their calls and echo location.
Tomoko
28 Jul 2010 21:09:21 PDT
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
No calls but orcas nearby
Sounds like the whales who went out last night have came back torugh weynton pass, kept their way to the east passed RB now.
Tomoko
27 Jul 2010 06:46:19 PDT
No orcas present.
Bill on the Naiad reported that the whales were opposite camp point around 13:20, still eastbound that time.
Tomoko
27 Jul 2010 18:11:05 PDT
Sounds like the whales who went out last night have came back torugh weynton pass, kept their way to the east passed RB now.
Tomoko
27 Jul 2010 06:46:19 PDT
No orcas present.
Bill on the Naiad reported that the whales were opposite camp point around 13:20, still eastbound that time.
Tomoko
27 Jul 2010 18:11:05 PDT
Monday, July 26, 2010
Distant calls audible.
For the past few hours we have been listening to quite a lovely mix of A1,A4 and A5 calls as the groups shifted from Robson Bight to the beaches and then even further east. They don't seem to be in any particular hurry. They left off of Critical Point starting at 12:30am and for the next two hours lingered in and around the east end of the Reserve heading into the rubbing beaches for a few rubs. The tide will be flooding until 4:30am.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 02:50:05 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The groups started to make their way back to the west around 3am, and are now in Robson Bight. We're mostly hearing A1s, but the A4s & A5s are there too. Lovely sounds as the light comes to a new day.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 05:34:48 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Last night's concert went on and on. Finally, at least some of the whales moved back to the west and past Critical Point and on toward the western end of Johnstone Strait. Around 7am the distant calls ceased. Ten minutes ago we began to hear A12 calls once again and a local boat, the Western Moon, reported seeing whales off of Blinkhorn.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 09:01:27 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A small group of transient orcas is heading south through Blackney Pass, against the ebbing tide. Meanwhile, the A34s & other residents are approaching the entrance of Blackney Pass from the west (heading east). They are silent, so far as we know.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 09:54:45 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're hearing distant calls on the Critical Point hydrophone, from several groups now making their way to the east in Johnstone Strait. A46 is with A12, A28 and A11 near the "Cliff" observation site opposite Robson Bight, and A37 is with a large group of other orcas, including A4s & A5s, now off the Sophias. All are slowly eastbound. Thanks to Marie for her report from the Cliff.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 11:44:44 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The sleepy whales are waking up and nearing (or already in) Robson Bight. A12s. A36 A11s, A73 and A8s are in quite mixed groups. A55,A66 and A37 are enjoying an all "boys" moment while A12, A11 and A28 are mulling things over in an all female get together. meanwhile, the transients are enduring the now noisy residents by carrying on east following the residents mid strait. Their dives are 5-6 minutes and they are making progress fairly slowly and have not yet changed direction. Ooops! Hot off the press! Everyone turned back to the west at 12:18pm. The transients (the T2s) switched west from just west of the Cliff and are headed to the Sophias. The residents who are spread right across the Strait with some still close to Critical Point and in the Reserve woke up, called and turned. Interesting day. The transients are in the lead and picking up speed.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 12:31:36 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The Transients went north through Blackney pass around 3:30pm. The Residents have turned east, their calls are on CRPT hydrophone.
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 17:47:39 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
The A12&A36s, A8s and A11s are all in the bight foraging. A34s are CI side, just passed the Cliff to the east. There are small group of transients(T10s) who came up from the east in the strait, they have turned back to the east.
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 18:19:38 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
and now they are rubbing!!
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 18:52:45 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After the great rub, the whales have turned west around 19:20. Marie on the Cliff reported the A12s and A36s are CI side, A11s are mid strait, she didn't see A8s but maybe they are along VI side. All going west.
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 20:29:09 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The whales went north through Blackney Pass. A12s in lead, followed by A36s. ( at least)
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 22:37:56 PDT
For the past few hours we have been listening to quite a lovely mix of A1,A4 and A5 calls as the groups shifted from Robson Bight to the beaches and then even further east. They don't seem to be in any particular hurry. They left off of Critical Point starting at 12:30am and for the next two hours lingered in and around the east end of the Reserve heading into the rubbing beaches for a few rubs. The tide will be flooding until 4:30am.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 02:50:05 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The groups started to make their way back to the west around 3am, and are now in Robson Bight. We're mostly hearing A1s, but the A4s & A5s are there too. Lovely sounds as the light comes to a new day.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 05:34:48 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Last night's concert went on and on. Finally, at least some of the whales moved back to the west and past Critical Point and on toward the western end of Johnstone Strait. Around 7am the distant calls ceased. Ten minutes ago we began to hear A12 calls once again and a local boat, the Western Moon, reported seeing whales off of Blinkhorn.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 09:01:27 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A small group of transient orcas is heading south through Blackney Pass, against the ebbing tide. Meanwhile, the A34s & other residents are approaching the entrance of Blackney Pass from the west (heading east). They are silent, so far as we know.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 09:54:45 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're hearing distant calls on the Critical Point hydrophone, from several groups now making their way to the east in Johnstone Strait. A46 is with A12, A28 and A11 near the "Cliff" observation site opposite Robson Bight, and A37 is with a large group of other orcas, including A4s & A5s, now off the Sophias. All are slowly eastbound. Thanks to Marie for her report from the Cliff.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 11:44:44 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The sleepy whales are waking up and nearing (or already in) Robson Bight. A12s. A36 A11s, A73 and A8s are in quite mixed groups. A55,A66 and A37 are enjoying an all "boys" moment while A12, A11 and A28 are mulling things over in an all female get together. meanwhile, the transients are enduring the now noisy residents by carrying on east following the residents mid strait. Their dives are 5-6 minutes and they are making progress fairly slowly and have not yet changed direction. Ooops! Hot off the press! Everyone turned back to the west at 12:18pm. The transients (the T2s) switched west from just west of the Cliff and are headed to the Sophias. The residents who are spread right across the Strait with some still close to Critical Point and in the Reserve woke up, called and turned. Interesting day. The transients are in the lead and picking up speed.
Helena
26 Jul 2010 12:31:36 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The Transients went north through Blackney pass around 3:30pm. The Residents have turned east, their calls are on CRPT hydrophone.
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 17:47:39 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
The A12&A36s, A8s and A11s are all in the bight foraging. A34s are CI side, just passed the Cliff to the east. There are small group of transients(T10s) who came up from the east in the strait, they have turned back to the east.
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 18:19:38 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
and now they are rubbing!!
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 18:52:45 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After the great rub, the whales have turned west around 19:20. Marie on the Cliff reported the A12s and A36s are CI side, A11s are mid strait, she didn't see A8s but maybe they are along VI side. All going west.
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 20:29:09 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The whales went north through Blackney Pass. A12s in lead, followed by A36s. ( at least)
Tomoko
26 Jul 2010 22:37:56 PDT
Sunday, July 25, 2010
No orcas present.
We've heard no "resident" orcas calling overnight, though we did hear transients briefly at around 11:30pm. We thought they were probably in western Johnstone Strait, but boat noise took over almost immediately, and we don't know what happened afterwards. No reports of orcas this morning so far.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 06:27:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We've just started to hear distant "A" calls on the rubbing beach hydrophone, and a few minutes ago heard a report that orcas are westbound at the eastern boundary of the Ecological Reserve. Sounds like at at least some of the orcas that have been fishing in Nodales Channel lately are returning from the east!
Helena
25 Jul 2010 10:16:54 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A4s & A5s have had a good rub at the Main rubbing beach & are now headed west, close to shore. Soon, we should hear them on the Critical Point hydrophone. We started streaming live audio again, by the way, as soon as they cam within range of our hydrophones.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 10:38:37 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The groups this morning are quite spread out with the A11 in the lead. A11 herself is full of vim and vigor this morning. She delighted Marie with a full breach 400 meters off the Cliff as she travelled west. A56 and her calf were with her at that time. Right now, she is headed to Cracroft Point on her own. The A8s are on the other side and just a bit further east but also going west. behind them are the A1s and we are waiting for a closer look before we determine who is where exactly.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 12:18:21 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
here is an update from Marie on the Cliff: Angela reported that Springer is travelling with the A8s today. They are about up to Kaikash Creek. The A36s and A12 are ahead of the A34s off of Izumi.Further to the west are A11/A56 and her little one.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 14:02:35 PDT
Distant calls audible.
This is exciting! We started hearing calls in Blackfish Sound around 6:33pm. This was after whales left Johnstone Strait and travelled through Weynton Pass. The Lukwa soon called in to say some of the whale were headed "down" Blackfish. This mean they are coming our direction. Lovely!
Helena
25 Jul 2010 19:09:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Well we never saw the whales afterall. The tide was ebbing strongly and that certainly did not encourage them. However, we are hearing the A34s in Johnstone Strait again. At this point we don't have many clues as to who went out Weynton Pass, whether it was all the groups or not.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 22:36:49 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Sounds like everybody (A12s,A36s,A4s and A5s) are moving back toward the Bight. As Nolwenn said "It is a party!"
Helena
25 Jul 2010 23:00:28 PDT
Superb sounds!!
It is only getting better as they near the Bight.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 23:36:02 PDT
We've heard no "resident" orcas calling overnight, though we did hear transients briefly at around 11:30pm. We thought they were probably in western Johnstone Strait, but boat noise took over almost immediately, and we don't know what happened afterwards. No reports of orcas this morning so far.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 06:27:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We've just started to hear distant "A" calls on the rubbing beach hydrophone, and a few minutes ago heard a report that orcas are westbound at the eastern boundary of the Ecological Reserve. Sounds like at at least some of the orcas that have been fishing in Nodales Channel lately are returning from the east!
Helena
25 Jul 2010 10:16:54 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A4s & A5s have had a good rub at the Main rubbing beach & are now headed west, close to shore. Soon, we should hear them on the Critical Point hydrophone. We started streaming live audio again, by the way, as soon as they cam within range of our hydrophones.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 10:38:37 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The groups this morning are quite spread out with the A11 in the lead. A11 herself is full of vim and vigor this morning. She delighted Marie with a full breach 400 meters off the Cliff as she travelled west. A56 and her calf were with her at that time. Right now, she is headed to Cracroft Point on her own. The A8s are on the other side and just a bit further east but also going west. behind them are the A1s and we are waiting for a closer look before we determine who is where exactly.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 12:18:21 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
here is an update from Marie on the Cliff: Angela reported that Springer is travelling with the A8s today. They are about up to Kaikash Creek. The A36s and A12 are ahead of the A34s off of Izumi.Further to the west are A11/A56 and her little one.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 14:02:35 PDT
Distant calls audible.
This is exciting! We started hearing calls in Blackfish Sound around 6:33pm. This was after whales left Johnstone Strait and travelled through Weynton Pass. The Lukwa soon called in to say some of the whale were headed "down" Blackfish. This mean they are coming our direction. Lovely!
Helena
25 Jul 2010 19:09:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Well we never saw the whales afterall. The tide was ebbing strongly and that certainly did not encourage them. However, we are hearing the A34s in Johnstone Strait again. At this point we don't have many clues as to who went out Weynton Pass, whether it was all the groups or not.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 22:36:49 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Sounds like everybody (A12s,A36s,A4s and A5s) are moving back toward the Bight. As Nolwenn said "It is a party!"
Helena
25 Jul 2010 23:00:28 PDT
Superb sounds!!
It is only getting better as they near the Bight.
Helena
25 Jul 2010 23:36:02 PDT
Saturday, July 24, 2010
No orcas present.
We heard no calls overnight, and have heard no reports of orcas nearby (or distant) this morning. We are waiting.
Helena
24 Jul 2010 09:21:31 PDT
Performing maintenance
No orcas are nearby at the moment, so we have stopped live audio streaming, to conserve bandwidth (and costs). We will resume streaming again when orcas are nearby. Please excuse the inconvenience.
Paul & Helena
24 Jul 2010 11:01:28 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A group of 5 yet to be identified transients have travelled into the area at the Pearse Islands. They were reported by Rob Williams travelling eastward. No resident orcas in this area today but there were some fairly active humpbacks. Alert Bay had their annual Sea Fest today.
Helena
24 Jul 2010 21:15:55 PDT
We heard no calls overnight, and have heard no reports of orcas nearby (or distant) this morning. We are waiting.
Helena
24 Jul 2010 09:21:31 PDT
Performing maintenance
No orcas are nearby at the moment, so we have stopped live audio streaming, to conserve bandwidth (and costs). We will resume streaming again when orcas are nearby. Please excuse the inconvenience.
Paul & Helena
24 Jul 2010 11:01:28 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A group of 5 yet to be identified transients have travelled into the area at the Pearse Islands. They were reported by Rob Williams travelling eastward. No resident orcas in this area today but there were some fairly active humpbacks. Alert Bay had their annual Sea Fest today.
Helena
24 Jul 2010 21:15:55 PDT
Friday, July 23, 2010
No orcas present.
Well, it has been a beautiful sunny day here, and for the first time in ages, it was not windy. There were no orcas in the immediate area but Freckles and Twister, two familiar humpbacks, spent most of the day in Blackney Pass along with a minke, Dalls porpoise, dolphins and sea lions. Hard to complain. The A12s,A36s, A8s and A11s/A73 had a good day as well chowing down on Spring salmon in Nodales Channel (eastern JS). The Mackays, on the Naiad Explorer, had an exciting day with a large group of resident orcas north of Port Hardy. Possibly the C6s and the I11s as well as others were there. Unfortunately, they were headed out to sea by the early afternoon.
Helena
23 Jul 2010 21:13:41 PDT
Well, it has been a beautiful sunny day here, and for the first time in ages, it was not windy. There were no orcas in the immediate area but Freckles and Twister, two familiar humpbacks, spent most of the day in Blackney Pass along with a minke, Dalls porpoise, dolphins and sea lions. Hard to complain. The A12s,A36s, A8s and A11s/A73 had a good day as well chowing down on Spring salmon in Nodales Channel (eastern JS). The Mackays, on the Naiad Explorer, had an exciting day with a large group of resident orcas north of Port Hardy. Possibly the C6s and the I11s as well as others were there. Unfortunately, they were headed out to sea by the early afternoon.
Helena
23 Jul 2010 21:13:41 PDT
Thursday, July 22, 2010
No calls but orcas nearby
Just before 3am we began to hear calls from groups coming back from the east. The whales proceeded to Robson Bight. Unfortunately, we lost track of them by 4:39am when their calls dropped off. The tide is ebbing so we wonder if they continued west with it.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 06:40:23 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Marie on the Cliff can see in the high winds orca just entering the eastern end of the Reserve! They must have gone back to the east after all.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 12:42:26 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We think we can account for the A34s, the A8s, probably the A11/73 and earlier there were enough males for the A36s to be there as well. That probably puts A12 in the mix as well. The A34s are continuing west past Kaikash Creek and the A8/11/73 group is further east of them. The A36s disappeared into the afternoon glare and big winds.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 15:52:35 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Not yet close - but it sounds like the A34s at least are moving back eastward toward Robson Bight. The tide will turned to flood in just over 30 minutes from now. We are waiting to hear if all the same groups are still travelling with each other.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 21:19:20 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Lovely A36s in the mix now and a even an A11 call in there too. Getting closer to the Bight by the minute.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 21:25:32 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like the A8s and the A11s are already on the beaches with the A12s and the A36s following from Critical Point.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 22:03:04 PDT
Just before 3am we began to hear calls from groups coming back from the east. The whales proceeded to Robson Bight. Unfortunately, we lost track of them by 4:39am when their calls dropped off. The tide is ebbing so we wonder if they continued west with it.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 06:40:23 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Marie on the Cliff can see in the high winds orca just entering the eastern end of the Reserve! They must have gone back to the east after all.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 12:42:26 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We think we can account for the A34s, the A8s, probably the A11/73 and earlier there were enough males for the A36s to be there as well. That probably puts A12 in the mix as well. The A34s are continuing west past Kaikash Creek and the A8/11/73 group is further east of them. The A36s disappeared into the afternoon glare and big winds.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 15:52:35 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Not yet close - but it sounds like the A34s at least are moving back eastward toward Robson Bight. The tide will turned to flood in just over 30 minutes from now. We are waiting to hear if all the same groups are still travelling with each other.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 21:19:20 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Lovely A36s in the mix now and a even an A11 call in there too. Getting closer to the Bight by the minute.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 21:25:32 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like the A8s and the A11s are already on the beaches with the A12s and the A36s following from Critical Point.
Helena
22 Jul 2010 22:03:04 PDT
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
No orcas present.
We have an internet connection and audio back. Whatever problem BC Tel was having seems to be resolved. This morning, the C6s continued to travel away from the area via Queen Charlotte Strait. They were first sighted at 9am westbound off of Lizard Pt. At 12:30pm they were off of bere Point sill going west. An unidentified group was seen of off Port Hardy at 8am. This group ha since gone out Goletas Channel and by 12:30pm they were off Sushartie Bay still westbound as well. Below, in the lower, east end of Johnstone Strait, the A11s, A8s, A12/A36s have been identified. So far the A34s have not been accounted for.
Helena
21 Jul 2010 13:26:00 PDT
No orcas present.
The treat today were the dolphins who moved into Blackney Pass from Blackfish Sound this afternoon. The orcas continued to move away in opposite directions. At 1:10pm, the Mackays left the C6s 21/2 miles northwest of Malcolm Point. The A8s/A11s and A12 and the A36s were off Davis Point around noon. All pretty quiet except the chatty dolphins briefly here in the middle.
Helena
21 Jul 2010 20:27:33 PDT
We have an internet connection and audio back. Whatever problem BC Tel was having seems to be resolved. This morning, the C6s continued to travel away from the area via Queen Charlotte Strait. They were first sighted at 9am westbound off of Lizard Pt. At 12:30pm they were off of bere Point sill going west. An unidentified group was seen of off Port Hardy at 8am. This group ha since gone out Goletas Channel and by 12:30pm they were off Sushartie Bay still westbound as well. Below, in the lower, east end of Johnstone Strait, the A11s, A8s, A12/A36s have been identified. So far the A34s have not been accounted for.
Helena
21 Jul 2010 13:26:00 PDT
No orcas present.
The treat today were the dolphins who moved into Blackney Pass from Blackfish Sound this afternoon. The orcas continued to move away in opposite directions. At 1:10pm, the Mackays left the C6s 21/2 miles northwest of Malcolm Point. The A8s/A11s and A12 and the A36s were off Davis Point around noon. All pretty quiet except the chatty dolphins briefly here in the middle.
Helena
21 Jul 2010 20:27:33 PDT
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Superb sounds!!
The A5s & A12s (A34s) are continuing their night together in Robson Bight.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 02:53:39 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A36s are also there.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 02:59:38 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since around 3:30am, when we think the A36s & A12, along with the A34s, headed north through Blackney Pass. We're not sure what happened to the A5s & A4s, but think it likely that they headed back to the east.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 07:41:31 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since around 3:30am, when we think the A36s & A12, along with the A34s, headed north through Blackney Pass. We're not sure what happened to the A4s, but think they may have headed back to the east. The A5s had a long rub between midnight and 1am, and may have headed east afterwards. We are waiting.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 07:47:36 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Time to catch up. We were saying farewell to Sam and while we were doing so the C6s came into Johnstone Strait unannounced at 9:20am and then travelled eastward silently and sleepily. They started off going "down" the Hanson Island shore but crossed from Turn Point to Kaikash Creek and carried on down the Vancouver Island shore toward Robson Bight. They have since spread out a bit but are till silent. Meanwhile, we believe the A34s along with A12 and the A36s left for Queen Charlotte Strait around 3:30am and may now be the group off of bere Point heading westward. We lost track of the A11s in the early evening and the A8s by 1:20am. We had the impression they went east in Johnstone Strait . This morning they were found off Ripple Point.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 11:17:09 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We're listening to the A34s, A36s & A12, & the C6s, who got together after the A34s, A36s & A12 entered Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass in lovely late afternoon light. Quite wonderful.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 19:55:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A12s have reached the Beaches.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 20:37:05 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The C6s are vocal once again in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 21:23:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The C6s just crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Johnstone Strait side. We think they are headed west. Meanwhile the A1s may have continued east from the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 22:00:16 PDT
The A5s & A12s (A34s) are continuing their night together in Robson Bight.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 02:53:39 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A36s are also there.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 02:59:38 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since around 3:30am, when we think the A36s & A12, along with the A34s, headed north through Blackney Pass. We're not sure what happened to the A5s & A4s, but think it likely that they headed back to the east.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 07:41:31 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since around 3:30am, when we think the A36s & A12, along with the A34s, headed north through Blackney Pass. We're not sure what happened to the A4s, but think they may have headed back to the east. The A5s had a long rub between midnight and 1am, and may have headed east afterwards. We are waiting.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 07:47:36 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Time to catch up. We were saying farewell to Sam and while we were doing so the C6s came into Johnstone Strait unannounced at 9:20am and then travelled eastward silently and sleepily. They started off going "down" the Hanson Island shore but crossed from Turn Point to Kaikash Creek and carried on down the Vancouver Island shore toward Robson Bight. They have since spread out a bit but are till silent. Meanwhile, we believe the A34s along with A12 and the A36s left for Queen Charlotte Strait around 3:30am and may now be the group off of bere Point heading westward. We lost track of the A11s in the early evening and the A8s by 1:20am. We had the impression they went east in Johnstone Strait . This morning they were found off Ripple Point.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 11:17:09 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We're listening to the A34s, A36s & A12, & the C6s, who got together after the A34s, A36s & A12 entered Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass in lovely late afternoon light. Quite wonderful.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 19:55:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A12s have reached the Beaches.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 20:37:05 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The C6s are vocal once again in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 21:23:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The C6s just crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Johnstone Strait side. We think they are headed west. Meanwhile the A1s may have continued east from the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
20 Jul 2010 22:00:16 PDT
Monday, July 19, 2010
Superb sounds!!
The A34s are back! We've been listening to their clear calls, without boat noise, on the Parson Island hydrophone, as they make their way from Blackney Pass into Johnston Strait. It's just beginning to get light here - lovely start to a new day!
Helena
19 Jul 2010 05:05:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Of course, as soon as we mention no boat noise, along it comes! The A34s are now making their way east in Johnstone Strait. We're listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone, with boat noise.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 05:19:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Very energetic fishing near Critical Point (calls & echolocation) and energetic rubbing at the Main rubbing beach, over the last little while. An A5 group is there as well as the A34s.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 06:58:54 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A34s are having a rub! New blog post.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 07:56:01 PDT
Superb sounds!!
After a great rub, the A34s are back in Robson Bight, fishing. Wonderful clear calls & echolocation!
Helena
19 Jul 2010 08:44:48 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Marie had the lovely experience of seeing A34 and her new calf swim under the Cliff heading to the west with the others groups spread out across Johntone Strait. A12 was mid strait being followed by two others while two other groups who were close together began to angle toward the Cracroft shore. Marie is busy confirming ids.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 09:37:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We have a correction to make: A12 is still with the A36s but they are in Queen Charlotte Strait this morning heading east toward Lizard Point. Thanks to the Naiad Explorer for the report. Marie thinks she was soooo excited to see A34's new little one that she only gave the whales who were mid strait a glancing look. perfectly understandable. The Lukwa is pretty sure the A11s are in with the other Johnstone Strait groups. Nice to have this great whale watching community who everyday provide really useful information about the whales and their whereabouts.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 10:50:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A34s, the A8s and the A11/73 groups continued west across the entrance of Blackney Pass and then further to the west. The last calls most likely signaled a turn. The whales are spread out near the entrance of Weynton Pass. As far as we know A12 and the a36s are still moving east in Queen charlotte Strait.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 12:01:36 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 and the boys are making their way toward Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. This will put them just behind the other groups (the A8s,A11s/73 and the A34s who are moving toward Robson Bight.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 14:53:05 PDT
Superb sounds!!
These beautiful sounds came as the whales neared and rounded Critical Point in Robson Bight. Amazing what the A5s do to a signal! Something about their calls is so energized. if they keep going east maybe a rub is in the offing.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 17:58:50 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Another rub! Sounds like A5s & A1s so far, probably more to come!
Helena
19 Jul 2010 18:20:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Jut before 7pm the A12s and the A8s returned west to the Robson Bight/Swaine Point area. These calls became quite distant and by 8:14pm we no longer could hear them. Just now we are hearing calls (A36s +) once again in the Strait.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 22:21:07 PDT
The A34s are back! We've been listening to their clear calls, without boat noise, on the Parson Island hydrophone, as they make their way from Blackney Pass into Johnston Strait. It's just beginning to get light here - lovely start to a new day!
Helena
19 Jul 2010 05:05:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Of course, as soon as we mention no boat noise, along it comes! The A34s are now making their way east in Johnstone Strait. We're listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone, with boat noise.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 05:19:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Very energetic fishing near Critical Point (calls & echolocation) and energetic rubbing at the Main rubbing beach, over the last little while. An A5 group is there as well as the A34s.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 06:58:54 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A34s are having a rub! New blog post.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 07:56:01 PDT
Superb sounds!!
After a great rub, the A34s are back in Robson Bight, fishing. Wonderful clear calls & echolocation!
Helena
19 Jul 2010 08:44:48 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Marie had the lovely experience of seeing A34 and her new calf swim under the Cliff heading to the west with the others groups spread out across Johntone Strait. A12 was mid strait being followed by two others while two other groups who were close together began to angle toward the Cracroft shore. Marie is busy confirming ids.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 09:37:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We have a correction to make: A12 is still with the A36s but they are in Queen Charlotte Strait this morning heading east toward Lizard Point. Thanks to the Naiad Explorer for the report. Marie thinks she was soooo excited to see A34's new little one that she only gave the whales who were mid strait a glancing look. perfectly understandable. The Lukwa is pretty sure the A11s are in with the other Johnstone Strait groups. Nice to have this great whale watching community who everyday provide really useful information about the whales and their whereabouts.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 10:50:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A34s, the A8s and the A11/73 groups continued west across the entrance of Blackney Pass and then further to the west. The last calls most likely signaled a turn. The whales are spread out near the entrance of Weynton Pass. As far as we know A12 and the a36s are still moving east in Queen charlotte Strait.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 12:01:36 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A12 and the boys are making their way toward Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. This will put them just behind the other groups (the A8s,A11s/73 and the A34s who are moving toward Robson Bight.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 14:53:05 PDT
Superb sounds!!
These beautiful sounds came as the whales neared and rounded Critical Point in Robson Bight. Amazing what the A5s do to a signal! Something about their calls is so energized. if they keep going east maybe a rub is in the offing.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 17:58:50 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Another rub! Sounds like A5s & A1s so far, probably more to come!
Helena
19 Jul 2010 18:20:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Jut before 7pm the A12s and the A8s returned west to the Robson Bight/Swaine Point area. These calls became quite distant and by 8:14pm we no longer could hear them. Just now we are hearing calls (A36s +) once again in the Strait.
Helena
19 Jul 2010 22:21:07 PDT
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Distant calls audible.
Against the flow of the tide the A36s/A12 have moved closer to the eastern end of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 00:00:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s and presumably A12 as well never ventured far away from this part of Johnstone Strait during the night and after they were heard at the east end of the Reserve between 12 and 1am. They were heard briefly again around 4am and just now getting louder and clearer on the Critical Point system.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 06:29:16 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Adjusting the map a bit after these closer calls.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 06:36:35 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After the bite in the Bight and nice rub!
Helena
18 Jul 2010 08:28:01 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After the bite in the Bight and nice rub! I should also add, it sounds like the A11s/73 and the A8s are on their way back to join the A36s and A12.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 08:28:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The three groups are on the move to the west. A28 is travelling with the A11s/73 on the Cracroft side and A12 with A37 are with the rest of the A8s across on the Vancouver Island shore. Thanks Marie for the details.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 09:48:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A11s,A8s,A36s,A12 and A73 all continued west to the Entrance of Weynton Pass. There they turned back to the east at 12:18pm. This is when we started to hear calls again. The calls are mostly from the A4 group.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 12:39:10 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A8s,A11s/A73, A36s/A12 are headed east along the Vancouver Island shore. They are not calling but are travelling east at a moderate rate.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 14:52:34 PDT
Superb sounds!!
After a rub, with whistles mixed calls and echolocation, the whales are headed back to the west again, now in Robson Bight. Lovely calls.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 17:37:05 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Amazing! Back at Robson Bight after another quick rub.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 19:45:06 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A8s apparently crossed from Vancouver Island and are "running" up the Cracroft Island side. The A11s/73 and the A36s/A12 are continuing along Vancouver Island.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 20:01:46 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So yet another turn around and the whales back at the eastern end of the Reserve.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 22:16:08 PDT
No orcas present.
Well, quiet right now so time for a few added notes. Marie reported that at 9:15pm 4 whales went past Boat Bay. She wondered if they might be A11,A56 and calf and A73. These whales angled directly over toward the beaches.Later, at 9:35pm Marie saw A12 snuggled in between A37 and A46. They were resting as they drifted eastward. Earlier, Jared Towers reported around 8pm that there were inbound whales off of Malcolm Point - perhaps all the rubbing is prep for company coming?
Helena
18 Jul 2010 22:52:24 PDT
Against the flow of the tide the A36s/A12 have moved closer to the eastern end of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 00:00:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s and presumably A12 as well never ventured far away from this part of Johnstone Strait during the night and after they were heard at the east end of the Reserve between 12 and 1am. They were heard briefly again around 4am and just now getting louder and clearer on the Critical Point system.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 06:29:16 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Adjusting the map a bit after these closer calls.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 06:36:35 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After the bite in the Bight and nice rub!
Helena
18 Jul 2010 08:28:01 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After the bite in the Bight and nice rub! I should also add, it sounds like the A11s/73 and the A8s are on their way back to join the A36s and A12.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 08:28:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The three groups are on the move to the west. A28 is travelling with the A11s/73 on the Cracroft side and A12 with A37 are with the rest of the A8s across on the Vancouver Island shore. Thanks Marie for the details.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 09:48:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A11s,A8s,A36s,A12 and A73 all continued west to the Entrance of Weynton Pass. There they turned back to the east at 12:18pm. This is when we started to hear calls again. The calls are mostly from the A4 group.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 12:39:10 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A8s,A11s/A73, A36s/A12 are headed east along the Vancouver Island shore. They are not calling but are travelling east at a moderate rate.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 14:52:34 PDT
Superb sounds!!
After a rub, with whistles mixed calls and echolocation, the whales are headed back to the west again, now in Robson Bight. Lovely calls.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 17:37:05 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Amazing! Back at Robson Bight after another quick rub.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 19:45:06 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A8s apparently crossed from Vancouver Island and are "running" up the Cracroft Island side. The A11s/73 and the A36s/A12 are continuing along Vancouver Island.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 20:01:46 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So yet another turn around and the whales back at the eastern end of the Reserve.
Helena
18 Jul 2010 22:16:08 PDT
No orcas present.
Well, quiet right now so time for a few added notes. Marie reported that at 9:15pm 4 whales went past Boat Bay. She wondered if they might be A11,A56 and calf and A73. These whales angled directly over toward the beaches.Later, at 9:35pm Marie saw A12 snuggled in between A37 and A46. They were resting as they drifted eastward. Earlier, Jared Towers reported around 8pm that there were inbound whales off of Malcolm Point - perhaps all the rubbing is prep for company coming?
Helena
18 Jul 2010 22:52:24 PDT
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Distant calls audible.
Gotta love this. The groups finally went through Weynton Pass and we picked them up on the "other" side, top of Blackfish Sound. Sounds like they are crossing toward Queen Charlotte Strait. We can hear the A4s,A36s and even possibly the A5s, who have been quite hard to track tonight. So perhaps all three groups are together and for the time being westbound.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 00:08:56 PDT
Boat noise
We last heard calls at 1:40am. At that time the calls were quite distant. The A5 group had become more evident around 12:30am and we wondered if they had "caught up with the leading A4s and A1s. Then around 1am all the groups joined in sounding rather excited for a brief time and lingering for a while longer in the space between wanson Island, Malcolm Island and Hanson Island. Gradually, they became more distant again.The last group to be heard were the A5s. They may have continued further west with the still ebbing tide. We did not hear them come back into Johnstone Strait so left it there for the night.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 08:20:19 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 and the A36s are finally making their way into Johnstone Strait! They have spent the majority of the day in Queen Charlotte Strait. late in the afternoon they loked like they might choose Blackney Pass as the route in but they thought better of it and went via Weynton Pas instead. Most of the Campbell River boats came all this way today only to find out about 10 orcas in blind channel (eastern Johnstone Strait). No ids on this group yet but there is speculation from this end that it might be the A8s/11s/73 group once again. If so, they returned to Johnstone Strait after the last calls heard in Blackfish Sound before 2am. Always interesting trying to keep track.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 17:11:54 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Now some calls from the A36s and A12!
Helena
17 Jul 2010 17:15:39 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
A12 and the "boys" are nearing Robson Bight. Today has been unbelievable for boat traffic.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 19:41:51 PDT
Superb sounds!!
This has been spectacular tonight. The A36s have been foraging very close into the Bight for quite a while.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 21:10:48 PDT
Gotta love this. The groups finally went through Weynton Pass and we picked them up on the "other" side, top of Blackfish Sound. Sounds like they are crossing toward Queen Charlotte Strait. We can hear the A4s,A36s and even possibly the A5s, who have been quite hard to track tonight. So perhaps all three groups are together and for the time being westbound.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 00:08:56 PDT
Boat noise
We last heard calls at 1:40am. At that time the calls were quite distant. The A5 group had become more evident around 12:30am and we wondered if they had "caught up with the leading A4s and A1s. Then around 1am all the groups joined in sounding rather excited for a brief time and lingering for a while longer in the space between wanson Island, Malcolm Island and Hanson Island. Gradually, they became more distant again.The last group to be heard were the A5s. They may have continued further west with the still ebbing tide. We did not hear them come back into Johnstone Strait so left it there for the night.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 08:20:19 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 and the A36s are finally making their way into Johnstone Strait! They have spent the majority of the day in Queen Charlotte Strait. late in the afternoon they loked like they might choose Blackney Pass as the route in but they thought better of it and went via Weynton Pas instead. Most of the Campbell River boats came all this way today only to find out about 10 orcas in blind channel (eastern Johnstone Strait). No ids on this group yet but there is speculation from this end that it might be the A8s/11s/73 group once again. If so, they returned to Johnstone Strait after the last calls heard in Blackfish Sound before 2am. Always interesting trying to keep track.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 17:11:54 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Now some calls from the A36s and A12!
Helena
17 Jul 2010 17:15:39 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
A12 and the "boys" are nearing Robson Bight. Today has been unbelievable for boat traffic.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 19:41:51 PDT
Superb sounds!!
This has been spectacular tonight. The A36s have been foraging very close into the Bight for quite a while.
Helena
17 Jul 2010 21:10:48 PDT
Friday, July 16, 2010
Distant calls audible.
We're hearing calls from the A36s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Sounds like they (probably with A12) have made it back into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 03:09:47 PDT
Boat noise
Boat noise has taken over Johnstone Strait - hopefully, it will go away before too long.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 03:24:32 PDT
No orcas present.
A quick update from about 10am: The A36s with A12 are possibly heading east off Windy Point (unconfirmed fisherman's report). The A8s and A11s with A73 are heading west quickly toward them and are probably east of Kelsey Bay still..
Helena
16 Jul 2010 12:36:01 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Orcas are returning to Robson Bight from the east.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 19:11:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So far there have been A4 calls so we thing the A11s and A73 might be in the lead coming west through the Reserve.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 19:24:17 PDT
Orcas near mics.
And now the A1s! The A36s and A12 are following the A11s and A73 west.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 20:28:51 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A11s and A73 went west past the entrance to Blackney Pass and then probably west a bit more before turning around and going back to the east. Their calls are getting louder and closer on the Critical Point system. We have lost track of A12 and the A36s and unsure if there have been any A8 calls at all (we have been distracted by the return of the June Cove from today's town-run. Transients were seen today off of Alert Bay around 5pm.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 23:02:08 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Pretty hard to read these guys with all the boat noise in the Strait. However, since the last post the A4 calls have become distant again. We possibly finally heard some distant A5 calls. Did the A11s/73 turn to wait for the A8s and then carry on to the west with the ebb? Only time and a little patience will tell. As said, not exactly the best conditions right now.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 23:37:14 PDT
We're hearing calls from the A36s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Sounds like they (probably with A12) have made it back into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 03:09:47 PDT
Boat noise
Boat noise has taken over Johnstone Strait - hopefully, it will go away before too long.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 03:24:32 PDT
No orcas present.
A quick update from about 10am: The A36s with A12 are possibly heading east off Windy Point (unconfirmed fisherman's report). The A8s and A11s with A73 are heading west quickly toward them and are probably east of Kelsey Bay still..
Helena
16 Jul 2010 12:36:01 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Orcas are returning to Robson Bight from the east.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 19:11:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
So far there have been A4 calls so we thing the A11s and A73 might be in the lead coming west through the Reserve.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 19:24:17 PDT
Orcas near mics.
And now the A1s! The A36s and A12 are following the A11s and A73 west.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 20:28:51 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A11s and A73 went west past the entrance to Blackney Pass and then probably west a bit more before turning around and going back to the east. Their calls are getting louder and closer on the Critical Point system. We have lost track of A12 and the A36s and unsure if there have been any A8 calls at all (we have been distracted by the return of the June Cove from today's town-run. Transients were seen today off of Alert Bay around 5pm.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 23:02:08 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Pretty hard to read these guys with all the boat noise in the Strait. However, since the last post the A4 calls have become distant again. We possibly finally heard some distant A5 calls. Did the A11s/73 turn to wait for the A8s and then carry on to the west with the ebb? Only time and a little patience will tell. As said, not exactly the best conditions right now.
Helena
16 Jul 2010 23:37:14 PDT
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Distant calls audible.
Just to catch up. It sounded like the A8s and A11s went east earlier this evening (9pm approx) from the Ecological Reserve. The A12s and A36s had followed them to Robson Bight but they have since turned and moved into Blackney Pass. We believe they are taking the last of the ebb in advance of the slack to flood to reach Blackfish Sound.
Helena
15 Jul 2010 01:47:13 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s with A12 and the A34s must have caught the flood back to Johnstone Strait. They since circled Hanson Island and passed through Blackney Pass to the north again. They are now in Blackfish Sound. The A36s were in the lead.
Helena
15 Jul 2010 07:51:35 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s with A12 made a try for Blackney Pass after coming back to Blackfish Sound from Queen Charlotte Strait. They were working their way very slowly south against the ebbing tide but not really making progress
Helena
15 Jul 2010 22:00:26 PDT
Just to catch up. It sounded like the A8s and A11s went east earlier this evening (9pm approx) from the Ecological Reserve. The A12s and A36s had followed them to Robson Bight but they have since turned and moved into Blackney Pass. We believe they are taking the last of the ebb in advance of the slack to flood to reach Blackfish Sound.
Helena
15 Jul 2010 01:47:13 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s with A12 and the A34s must have caught the flood back to Johnstone Strait. They since circled Hanson Island and passed through Blackney Pass to the north again. They are now in Blackfish Sound. The A36s were in the lead.
Helena
15 Jul 2010 07:51:35 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A36s with A12 made a try for Blackney Pass after coming back to Blackfish Sound from Queen Charlotte Strait. They were working their way very slowly south against the ebbing tide but not really making progress
Helena
15 Jul 2010 22:00:26 PDT
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
No orcas present.
Thanks kate@Bere Pt for the report about the A30s heading west to Malcolm Point this morning. In addition to that, Jim Borrowman of Stubbs Island Whale Watch reported this morning (just now) that the small R group (R13,47 and W3) headed west past Stubbs Island on its west side and into Cormorant Channel. We heard about 10 echo location clicks at 1:11am but nothing else for the rest of the night.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 09:14:32 PDT
No orcas present.
The groups who have been down to the east, the A36s, A12s, A8s,A11s and A73 are making their way back to the western Johnstone Strait. They are still east of the Ecological Reserve but moving quickly west. We are unsure, at this point, about what happened to the largish group who were with the A30s and the Rs two nights ago We had thought they might have been the C6s and it is still unclear if they made it all the way to Johnstone Strait and went east OR they turned around and went back out to the west. Time may tell.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 12:15:01 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're hearing calls close to the rubbing beach hydrophone, & a groups of 6 orcas was sighted heading west at the eastern boundary of the Reserve a few minutes ago... sounds like a rub coming soon!
Helena
14 Jul 2010 13:15:29 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We're hearing these wonderful clear calls and echolocation on the Critical Point hydrophone, as the orcas move quickly to the west, grabbing a bite in the Bight as they go.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 13:47:51 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We are listening to the A8s, A11s/A73, the A12s (all) and the A36s head west from the Ecological Reserve area.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 14:28:45 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
There have been a lot of A4 calls (including Springer) as the groups cross the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Johnstone Strait side. Nice!
Helena
14 Jul 2010 15:31:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After travelling west to Turn Point and Blinkhorn the groups turned around to the east at 4:30pm. They then travelled back to the Bight area.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 19:39:10 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Quite the social group somewhere near the Ecological Reserve. Sounds like they had a good day, happy to be with each other! Lots of boat noise too unfortunately.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 21:14:58 PDT
Thanks kate@Bere Pt for the report about the A30s heading west to Malcolm Point this morning. In addition to that, Jim Borrowman of Stubbs Island Whale Watch reported this morning (just now) that the small R group (R13,47 and W3) headed west past Stubbs Island on its west side and into Cormorant Channel. We heard about 10 echo location clicks at 1:11am but nothing else for the rest of the night.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 09:14:32 PDT
No orcas present.
The groups who have been down to the east, the A36s, A12s, A8s,A11s and A73 are making their way back to the western Johnstone Strait. They are still east of the Ecological Reserve but moving quickly west. We are unsure, at this point, about what happened to the largish group who were with the A30s and the Rs two nights ago We had thought they might have been the C6s and it is still unclear if they made it all the way to Johnstone Strait and went east OR they turned around and went back out to the west. Time may tell.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 12:15:01 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're hearing calls close to the rubbing beach hydrophone, & a groups of 6 orcas was sighted heading west at the eastern boundary of the Reserve a few minutes ago... sounds like a rub coming soon!
Helena
14 Jul 2010 13:15:29 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We're hearing these wonderful clear calls and echolocation on the Critical Point hydrophone, as the orcas move quickly to the west, grabbing a bite in the Bight as they go.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 13:47:51 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We are listening to the A8s, A11s/A73, the A12s (all) and the A36s head west from the Ecological Reserve area.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 14:28:45 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
There have been a lot of A4 calls (including Springer) as the groups cross the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Johnstone Strait side. Nice!
Helena
14 Jul 2010 15:31:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After travelling west to Turn Point and Blinkhorn the groups turned around to the east at 4:30pm. They then travelled back to the Bight area.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 19:39:10 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Quite the social group somewhere near the Ecological Reserve. Sounds like they had a good day, happy to be with each other! Lots of boat noise too unfortunately.
Helena
14 Jul 2010 21:14:58 PDT
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Distant calls audible.
Yes, you are right. It is the A30s. After moving eastward for a bit the A30s have come back in range of Critical Point. Perhaps they are fairly offshore and not as yet close to Robson Bight.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 01:40:14 PDT
Superb sounds!!
This has been just great. The A30s are very much in the Bight and enjoying a good bite to eat by the sounds of it!
Helena
13 Jul 2010 02:41:07 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
In for the rub after the bite in the Bight.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 03:58:09 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s are back in Robson Bight, fishing & calling, sounds like a lovely dawn, without boat noise.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 04:43:45 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s travelled west after returning to the Bight at 4am. The tide began to ebb at 5am. Stubbs Island reported seeing this group off of Telegraph Cove at 7:30am. They were still moving west toward beaver Cove.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 08:52:55 PDT
No orcas present.
We just heard from the Lukwa that the A30s have gone around Donegal Head and heading into Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 09:53:32 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A while ago we heard some echolocation. It was eventually repeated on the Critical Point hydronphone. The Cliff was able to locate three fins near Robson Point in the Bight. This small group is foraging but quite silent. On the otherside, the A30s gave everyone the slip so everyone wondered if they had back tracked into Blackfish Sound. So far no indication that this is what has happened although the tide is in flood and this might encourage the A30s this direction. Fingers crossed.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 12:19:59 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
There was a bit of a mystery today. Three whales headed west through Robson Bight this morning. They were all small fins and difficult to see in the windy conditions. We heard just enough echo location to locate the whales in the Strait. The Cliff later informed us of their journey up Vancouver Island to Little Kaikash. The whale watch boats let us know when they turned back to the east in the afternoon. Meanwhile, we were all scratching our heads wondering who was there in this unusual combination of two female adult fins and a little one. One little call helped to point us in the right direction - Rs. But only one group, the R13s, was anywhere near that small and we still could not explain the third whale. After a phone call to Jared Towers there was some clarification. DFO's Graeme Ellis had encountered the same group earlier and further north. It turns out that W3 after losing another and her last son this year chose to travel with R13 and her little one, R47. They are still eastbound at last report and still very, very quiet. W3 along with A12 are the oldest matriarchs in the community.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 18:05:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
These distant A1 calls (?A30s) are in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 21:33:38 PDT
Yes, you are right. It is the A30s. After moving eastward for a bit the A30s have come back in range of Critical Point. Perhaps they are fairly offshore and not as yet close to Robson Bight.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 01:40:14 PDT
Superb sounds!!
This has been just great. The A30s are very much in the Bight and enjoying a good bite to eat by the sounds of it!
Helena
13 Jul 2010 02:41:07 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
In for the rub after the bite in the Bight.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 03:58:09 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s are back in Robson Bight, fishing & calling, sounds like a lovely dawn, without boat noise.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 04:43:45 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s travelled west after returning to the Bight at 4am. The tide began to ebb at 5am. Stubbs Island reported seeing this group off of Telegraph Cove at 7:30am. They were still moving west toward beaver Cove.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 08:52:55 PDT
No orcas present.
We just heard from the Lukwa that the A30s have gone around Donegal Head and heading into Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 09:53:32 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A while ago we heard some echolocation. It was eventually repeated on the Critical Point hydronphone. The Cliff was able to locate three fins near Robson Point in the Bight. This small group is foraging but quite silent. On the otherside, the A30s gave everyone the slip so everyone wondered if they had back tracked into Blackfish Sound. So far no indication that this is what has happened although the tide is in flood and this might encourage the A30s this direction. Fingers crossed.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 12:19:59 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
There was a bit of a mystery today. Three whales headed west through Robson Bight this morning. They were all small fins and difficult to see in the windy conditions. We heard just enough echo location to locate the whales in the Strait. The Cliff later informed us of their journey up Vancouver Island to Little Kaikash. The whale watch boats let us know when they turned back to the east in the afternoon. Meanwhile, we were all scratching our heads wondering who was there in this unusual combination of two female adult fins and a little one. One little call helped to point us in the right direction - Rs. But only one group, the R13s, was anywhere near that small and we still could not explain the third whale. After a phone call to Jared Towers there was some clarification. DFO's Graeme Ellis had encountered the same group earlier and further north. It turns out that W3 after losing another and her last son this year chose to travel with R13 and her little one, R47. They are still eastbound at last report and still very, very quiet. W3 along with A12 are the oldest matriarchs in the community.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 18:05:49 PDT
Helena, thanks for that update. Does this also mean that R7 also died this or last year?
Jan@Netherlands
13 Jul 2010 20:45:16 PDT
Hi Jan, Sorry we were busy here and I didn't see your note. R7 has been missing since 2008.
Helena@Hanson I
13 Jul 2010 22:28:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
These distant A1 calls (?A30s) are in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
13 Jul 2010 21:33:38 PDT
Monday, July 12, 2010
Distant calls audible.
We began hearing distant "A1" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago, not sure who, not sure where, but somebody is out there.
Helena
12 Jul 2010 07:04:33 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Some of the mystery may have been solved. At 8am, two males were seen off of Telegraph Cove. A third whale was also reported at the ame time. We heard only distant A12 calls at 6:40am. Perhaps, the A36s with A12 managed to make their way back here from the east on this very strong ebb tide. Very, very windy today so sighting conditions are poor and these whales have disappeared and we have not heard anything since. There is a report of whales to the east still. At 9am they were headed to Thurston Bay. last night Hurricane Jack reprted they were in Cordero Channel at 8pm. Also, from yesterday, Bill and Donna Mackay had an exciting encounter with a very large group of orcas off of Gordon Channel neat Port Hardy. Included in that group were possibly the C10s, Ds, I22s and I18s. All of these are A clan whales. So despite the "silence" there is actually a lot happening. Even the sun is shining!
Helena
12 Jul 2010 10:17:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
These distant calls are coming from two different directions. The A34s have come in from Weynton Pass and are quickly heading east. The A36s (A12 has yet to be located) are travellling quickly westward to meet up with the new arrivals.
Helena
12 Jul 2010 15:39:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s just went by the Lab moving very slowly against the strong ebbing tide. But they were not alone. In the late eveing light we watched another group, perhaps the C6s, adjust themselves into the back eddy close to hanson Island. They finally made way towards Johnstone Strait. We have not yet heard them. The tide will turn in about two hours so hopefully it will be come easier,
Helena
12 Jul 2010 22:41:21 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Really don't know what to make of this yet. We have not heard any C like calls but there were a few very loud "R" like calls clsoe to Robson Bight. This probably needs more clues before we can say who beyond the A30s came in tonight,. Stay tuned! They are nearing the Bight now.
Helena
12 Jul 2010 23:43:44 PDT
We began hearing distant "A1" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago, not sure who, not sure where, but somebody is out there.
Helena
12 Jul 2010 07:04:33 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Some of the mystery may have been solved. At 8am, two males were seen off of Telegraph Cove. A third whale was also reported at the ame time. We heard only distant A12 calls at 6:40am. Perhaps, the A36s with A12 managed to make their way back here from the east on this very strong ebb tide. Very, very windy today so sighting conditions are poor and these whales have disappeared and we have not heard anything since. There is a report of whales to the east still. At 9am they were headed to Thurston Bay. last night Hurricane Jack reprted they were in Cordero Channel at 8pm. Also, from yesterday, Bill and Donna Mackay had an exciting encounter with a very large group of orcas off of Gordon Channel neat Port Hardy. Included in that group were possibly the C10s, Ds, I22s and I18s. All of these are A clan whales. So despite the "silence" there is actually a lot happening. Even the sun is shining!
Helena
12 Jul 2010 10:17:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
These distant calls are coming from two different directions. The A34s have come in from Weynton Pass and are quickly heading east. The A36s (A12 has yet to be located) are travellling quickly westward to meet up with the new arrivals.
Helena
12 Jul 2010 15:39:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s just went by the Lab moving very slowly against the strong ebbing tide. But they were not alone. In the late eveing light we watched another group, perhaps the C6s, adjust themselves into the back eddy close to hanson Island. They finally made way towards Johnstone Strait. We have not yet heard them. The tide will turn in about two hours so hopefully it will be come easier,
Helena
12 Jul 2010 22:41:21 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Really don't know what to make of this yet. We have not heard any C like calls but there were a few very loud "R" like calls clsoe to Robson Bight. This probably needs more clues before we can say who beyond the A30s came in tonight,. Stay tuned! They are nearing the Bight now.
Helena
12 Jul 2010 23:43:44 PDT
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