Erin | M/V Sea Lion | Sunday, June 23, 2019 | 1:30 PM
Today was a lovely day out on the water! We began the trip with a harbor seal in the harbor right by our boat! We then left Friday Harbor and headed north toward a report of a humpback whale. On our way, we saw harbor porpoises in San Juan Channel. We ended up near Patos Island and got an excellent view of the lighthouse. We then got to see a bald eagle's nest! Their nest can be 6 feet deep and weigh 2,000 pounds! There was even a fledgling in it! We went around to the north side of Patos Island and saw harbor seals hauled out on the rocks! They were very relaxed, and some of them blended into the rocks very well-expert camouflage!
After seeing that amazing wildlife, we got a report of a humpback whale. We ended up seeing its fifteen foot blow from about a half mile away, and we slowly approached the scene. The whale was identified as 'Stitch.' Stitch is a whale that has been frequently seen here this summer. Stitch has very distinct white markings on its dorsal fin. We got to see its beautiful fluke twice, and then it was time to head back toward the harbor. On the way back in, a couple got engaged on the bow!! What a magical place for an engagement. It was a trip full of excitement and fun. Until next time, folks!
Naturalist Erin