31 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Where to start? The A30s are currently travelling north through Blackney Pass. Someone is at the beaches rubbing and recently there was distant A5 calls on Critical Point. Earlier the A30s were with the A4s, A5s and A12s off Robson Bight before scattering in different directions east and west.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 01:08:14 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Just after starting a recording because the A30s were reported off of Bold Head in Blackfish Sound, we began hearing A5 calls in Johnstone Strait. We suspect this might be the start of the A12, A4, A5 parade from the east.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 10:42:43 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Time to catch up. The A30s came through Blackney Pass. They cleared CP around 1:55pm and after a slight pause they continued east crossing in the direction of the Reserve. The A23s and the A25s, meanwhile, had gone west, crossed to the entrance of Blackney Pass and then headed west tight to the Hanson shore. At 1pm they turned and crossed right over to the Vancouver Island side and headed east. Around 2pm they would have been off Kaikash Creek following the A30s to the east. Nice timing. meanwhile, the A11s are on their way west not far from the eastern end of the Reserve.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 14:33:23 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Sounds like the A11s went in for a rub while the A30s and A5s wait a little further west.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 15:27:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Thanks to Marie on the Cliff we know that the A24s, A11s (all) came from the east. The A30s and the A23s/25s (who had turned first at 4pm) are now moving west. There are groups on both sides of the Strait in the Sophia Island area.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 16:45:54 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
So the A30s, A25s,A23s and all the A4 went west up to the "top" end of Hanson I. ,turned around and now are back off the entrance to Blackney Pass and Cracroft Point. The tide isebbing now and as earlier the whales are working against the current.
Helena
31 Aug 2007 19:25:17 PDT
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
30 August 2007, Orcalab reports
No orcas present.
Good morning. We've heard no calls since just after midnight, when we think the A30s were passing the rubbing beaches, heading east. This means that all the A, G, & R clan groups here yesterday are probably still somewhere to the east of us.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 05:50:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are certainly holding down the middle. The A36s, I15s and I31s did go out Weynton and the A30s moved toward the CP area just ahead of the Rs coming up from the east along the Vancouver Island shore. Nick Templeman reports that at 11am the A12s, A4s and A5s were also westbound (isn't everyone?) off Kelsey Bay.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 11:42:59 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s have begun heading back to the east from CP, possibly to meet up with several groups of orcas coming west. They include at least some of the A4s, A5s, & A12s, who were reported to be heading west from Kelsey Bay around 11am today.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 16:08:51 PDT
Boat noise
Boy this was quick, The A12s,A5s and almost all of the A4s (only the small A11 group has not been accounted for so far) moved quickly to the west. The A30s doubled backed while the groups came "in" but now may also be westbound.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 17:50:56 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Bight Party: A30s, A4s,A5s,?A12s
Helena
30 Aug 2007 20:43:32 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The Bight party continues!
Helena
30 Aug 2007 21:26:57 PDT
No orcas present.
Good morning. We've heard no calls since just after midnight, when we think the A30s were passing the rubbing beaches, heading east. This means that all the A, G, & R clan groups here yesterday are probably still somewhere to the east of us.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 05:50:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are certainly holding down the middle. The A36s, I15s and I31s did go out Weynton and the A30s moved toward the CP area just ahead of the Rs coming up from the east along the Vancouver Island shore. Nick Templeman reports that at 11am the A12s, A4s and A5s were also westbound (isn't everyone?) off Kelsey Bay.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 11:42:59 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s have begun heading back to the east from CP, possibly to meet up with several groups of orcas coming west. They include at least some of the A4s, A5s, & A12s, who were reported to be heading west from Kelsey Bay around 11am today.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 16:08:51 PDT
Boat noise
Boy this was quick, The A12s,A5s and almost all of the A4s (only the small A11 group has not been accounted for so far) moved quickly to the west. The A30s doubled backed while the groups came "in" but now may also be westbound.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 17:50:56 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Bight Party: A30s, A4s,A5s,?A12s
Helena
30 Aug 2007 20:43:32 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The Bight party continues!
Helena
30 Aug 2007 21:26:57 PDT
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
28 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
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
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
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
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
Monday, August 27, 2007
26 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
27 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
Friday, August 24, 2007
24 August, Orcalab reports:
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
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
Thursday, August 23, 2007
23 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
22 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
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
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
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
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
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
21 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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 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
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 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
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 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
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
Monday, August 20, 2007
20 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
Saturday, August 18, 2007
18 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
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
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
Thursday, August 16, 2007
16 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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.
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
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.
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
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
15 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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.
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
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.
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
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
14 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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.
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
Monday, August 13, 2007
13 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
Sunday, August 12, 2007
12 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
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
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
Saturday, August 11, 2007
11 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
Friday, August 10, 2007
10 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
Thursday, August 09, 2007
09 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
08 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
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
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
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