[Lauren Fritz, M/V Kestrel, 08/16/17, 2:00 pm Tour]
This season has been a remarkable and unusual one in terms of killer whale sightings, for sure! We've been seeing whales venture into areas they've rarely been seen before. Today, we watched the T137's explore all the way up the shoreline of East Sound on Orcas Island! I've never heard of killer whales swimming through here before, although I'm sure it has occurred - it's just rare. M/V Kestrel was able to hang out with these animals for a few miles as they traveled and then began to hunt. T137A made several epic appearances, a bit closer than the rest of his family as he was traveling further offshore.
Is anyone confused why Orcas Island is called what it is? I'll tell you now, it has nothing to do with killer whales. Back in the 1700's, Spain was one of the countries exploring the San Juan Island region, and one of their vessels was named "Boca de Horcasitas." They roughly charted the region and the name Orcas Island appeared, with the original "H" having been dropped. It was actually Captain Kellet of the British navy that officially charted this name in 1847, and it has been used ever since. So, nothing to do with our black and white marine mammal friends who frequent this area. Wild!
We had a blast watching these whales today, and we're certainly spoiled when it comes to biodiversity out here. Stellar's sea lions made an appearance, along with plenty of harbor seals and seabirds. I was a bit disappointed that we even needed to go back to the harbor at the end of the trip - I would've much rather stayed out and enjoyed the sea breeze and wildlife sightings!
Thanks to those of you who joined us today. We loved having you onboard and can't wait to see you again in the future. I've attached my favorite photos of the trip, please enjoy!
Naturalist Lauren, San Juan Safaris
See all 11 photos
