No orcas present.
No calls overnight lead us to believe the Gs, the A30s and the A36s kept to the eastern regions of Johnstone Strait. We now know, thanks to reports from DFO, that neither the i11s or I31s were present, only "G" groups.
Helena
12 Oct 2006 09:41:07 PDT
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
11 October 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas relaxing.
It sounds like the groups that were reported in Queen Charlotte Strait yesterday afternoon have now come into Johnstone Strait. We've been hearing occasional A & G clan "resting" calls since around 5am, when the orcas were in Blackfish Sound. They were silent going through Blackney Pass but became briefly vocal when they entered Johnstone Strait.
Helena
11 Oct 2006 06:45:02 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We've been listening to several G clan groups (I31s, I11s, G17s, probably others) along with the A30s and A36s, since they arrived in the vicinity of Robsn Bight about 2 hours ago. Boat noise has intruded occasionally, but there have been periods with just lovely orca calls as well. At the moment, we're hearing no calls, so it's possible the orcas have now moved to the east, past Robson Bight.
Helena
11 Oct 2006 09:50:03 PDT
No orcas present.
All those whales and all to the east since 10am this morning! Most likely most of G clan were with the A30s and the A36s. We didn't hear the I15s and it was unclear if both the I11s and the I31s were there. Fortunately, what goes east will come back at some point.
Helena
11 Oct 2006 21:55:41 PDT
Orcas relaxing.
It sounds like the groups that were reported in Queen Charlotte Strait yesterday afternoon have now come into Johnstone Strait. We've been hearing occasional A & G clan "resting" calls since around 5am, when the orcas were in Blackfish Sound. They were silent going through Blackney Pass but became briefly vocal when they entered Johnstone Strait.
Helena
11 Oct 2006 06:45:02 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We've been listening to several G clan groups (I31s, I11s, G17s, probably others) along with the A30s and A36s, since they arrived in the vicinity of Robsn Bight about 2 hours ago. Boat noise has intruded occasionally, but there have been periods with just lovely orca calls as well. At the moment, we're hearing no calls, so it's possible the orcas have now moved to the east, past Robson Bight.
Helena
11 Oct 2006 09:50:03 PDT
No orcas present.
All those whales and all to the east since 10am this morning! Most likely most of G clan were with the A30s and the A36s. We didn't hear the I15s and it was unclear if both the I11s and the I31s were there. Fortunately, what goes east will come back at some point.
Helena
11 Oct 2006 21:55:41 PDT
Friday, September 22, 2006
22 September Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
It was mostly a quiet night except around 2:48am we thought there might have been some distant I11/I31 type calls in Johnstone Strait. later there were a few dolphin calls and everything was "quiet" afterwards. So it is unclear what happened and where the whales might be this grey morning.
Helena
22 Sep 2006 08:05:25 PDT
No orcas present.
It was mostly a quiet night except around 2:48am we thought there might have been some distant I11/I31 type calls in Johnstone Strait. later there were a few dolphin calls and everything was "quiet" afterwards. So it is unclear what happened and where the whales might be this grey morning.
Helena
22 Sep 2006 08:05:25 PDT
Thursday, September 21, 2006
21 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have met up with the I31s and or the I11s. The groups are heading east now in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 07:10:13 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Both the A12s and the I11s are now in Johnstone Strait. The A12s travelled ahead of the I11s and after a brief vocal exchange the I11s followed the A12s through Blackney Pass. We had a report from Spirit of the West that two groups went east past their camp at Boat Bay this morning soon after we lost track of the A30s and the I31 calls in Johnstone Strait so this may have been these two groups.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 12:15:04 PDT
No orcas present.
We have not heard any calls since just before 3pm. We believe the I11s and the A12s moved off of CP to the east, following the A30s and the I31s.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 17:49:50 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have met up with the I31s and or the I11s. The groups are heading east now in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 07:10:13 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Both the A12s and the I11s are now in Johnstone Strait. The A12s travelled ahead of the I11s and after a brief vocal exchange the I11s followed the A12s through Blackney Pass. We had a report from Spirit of the West that two groups went east past their camp at Boat Bay this morning soon after we lost track of the A30s and the I31 calls in Johnstone Strait so this may have been these two groups.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 12:15:04 PDT
No orcas present.
We have not heard any calls since just before 3pm. We believe the I11s and the A12s moved off of CP to the east, following the A30s and the I31s.
Helena
21 Sep 2006 17:49:50 PDT
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
19 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
Just now we have been listening to A1 calls (the A30s) in Johnstone Strait near Robson Bight. Last night was a bit of a puzzle. Groups (the A30s, I15s, G and I31s definitely came out of the east and headed for Cracroft Point and the entrance to Blackney Pass. For a time it sounded like some of the whales entered Blackney Pass. This is when it became confusing. It was not clear if whales went all the way through Blackney Passor returned to the Strait. The A30s and the I15s stayed in the Strait.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 07:21:17 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are slowly making their way west from Robson Bight and toward CP. Meanwhile, most of last night's mystery has been solved. It appears that the G clan "Crowd" did move out to the west last night. We suspect now that some took Blackney Pass while others Weynton Pass to reach Blackfish Sound and Queen Charlotte Strait beyond. They are currently spread out from Lizard Point back to Malcolm Point. They have been joined by the A36s. Did the A36s have anyone new with them? The map right now is not entirely accurate but it helps show the locations that the whales are near.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 12:24:03 PDT
No orcas present.
Hi, power was down in Alert Bay so it was difficult to post coments. A lot happened today. The "Crowd" (the A12s and G clan) moved off to the west this afternoon. As they did so two other events occured. The A30s moved to the west, got just past Big Bay and then turned around and went back to the east past Critical Point and a group of 6 transients moved into Blackfish Sound and east to the Strait. These were ( thanks to Jared Towers for the IDs) the T60s, T124C and T2B. T2B has a new calf and Jared informs us that the calf is less than 20 days old because he saw T2B without a calf that long ago. This is rather exciting! Right now all is quiet, whales dispersing in all sorts of different directions.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 19:49:42 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Just now we have been listening to A1 calls (the A30s) in Johnstone Strait near Robson Bight. Last night was a bit of a puzzle. Groups (the A30s, I15s, G and I31s definitely came out of the east and headed for Cracroft Point and the entrance to Blackney Pass. For a time it sounded like some of the whales entered Blackney Pass. This is when it became confusing. It was not clear if whales went all the way through Blackney Passor returned to the Strait. The A30s and the I15s stayed in the Strait.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 07:21:17 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are slowly making their way west from Robson Bight and toward CP. Meanwhile, most of last night's mystery has been solved. It appears that the G clan "Crowd" did move out to the west last night. We suspect now that some took Blackney Pass while others Weynton Pass to reach Blackfish Sound and Queen Charlotte Strait beyond. They are currently spread out from Lizard Point back to Malcolm Point. They have been joined by the A36s. Did the A36s have anyone new with them? The map right now is not entirely accurate but it helps show the locations that the whales are near.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 12:24:03 PDT
No orcas present.
Hi, power was down in Alert Bay so it was difficult to post coments. A lot happened today. The "Crowd" (the A12s and G clan) moved off to the west this afternoon. As they did so two other events occured. The A30s moved to the west, got just past Big Bay and then turned around and went back to the east past Critical Point and a group of 6 transients moved into Blackfish Sound and east to the Strait. These were ( thanks to Jared Towers for the IDs) the T60s, T124C and T2B. T2B has a new calf and Jared informs us that the calf is less than 20 days old because he saw T2B without a calf that long ago. This is rather exciting! Right now all is quiet, whales dispersing in all sorts of different directions.
Helena
19 Sep 2006 19:49:42 PDT
Monday, September 18, 2006
18 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Nick Templeton relayed that the "Crowd" was westbound from Camp Point at around 2pm. The A30s, A12, G2s,G3,G12s,G18s,G17,G29s, I11s,I15s,I31s have been in the east for the last two days. The A36s were sighted (thanks to Discovery)quite far west in Queen Charlotte Strait today. They were foraging for most of the time observed.
Helena
18 Sep 2006 17:32:28 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
They are back! The groups are parading west past the Ecological Reseerve.
Helena
18 Sep 2006 22:18:56 PDT
No orcas present.
Nick Templeton relayed that the "Crowd" was westbound from Camp Point at around 2pm. The A30s, A12, G2s,G3,G12s,G18s,G17,G29s, I11s,I15s,I31s have been in the east for the last two days. The A36s were sighted (thanks to Discovery)quite far west in Queen Charlotte Strait today. They were foraging for most of the time observed.
Helena
18 Sep 2006 17:32:28 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
They are back! The groups are parading west past the Ecological Reseerve.
Helena
18 Sep 2006 22:18:56 PDT
Saturday, September 16, 2006
16 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth. After a clear signal from the A12s off CP the groups who had followed them to the Strait earlier came back to Blackney Pass and out to Blackfish Sound. Not at all vocal, still difficult to say who. Perhaps they will oblige once they all get into Blackfish. Lovely starry night though to listen to blows.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 05:42:46 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, who spent most of the morning off of Donegal Head, moved to the west to join up with the larger group heading east at Lizard Point. All these whales are nearing Donegal Head and closer to being in range of the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 13:48:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are at the moment fixing the Flower Island hydrophone but we can still hear the I15s as they and the others head east from Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 15:11:18 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Today is the first time for this area that all of G clan has been together. The G17s arrived to complete the list! We just had a lovely pass of all the groups through Blackney Pass. The groups are all past CP now and continuing eastward toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 19:15:47 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As you have already guessed the whalesare at the rubbing beaches,
Helena
16 Sep 2006 21:06:22 PDT
No orcas present.
After the beaches the whales most likely continued east.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 22:23:03 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth. After a clear signal from the A12s off CP the groups who had followed them to the Strait earlier came back to Blackney Pass and out to Blackfish Sound. Not at all vocal, still difficult to say who. Perhaps they will oblige once they all get into Blackfish. Lovely starry night though to listen to blows.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 05:42:46 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, who spent most of the morning off of Donegal Head, moved to the west to join up with the larger group heading east at Lizard Point. All these whales are nearing Donegal Head and closer to being in range of the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 13:48:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are at the moment fixing the Flower Island hydrophone but we can still hear the I15s as they and the others head east from Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 15:11:18 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Today is the first time for this area that all of G clan has been together. The G17s arrived to complete the list! We just had a lovely pass of all the groups through Blackney Pass. The groups are all past CP now and continuing eastward toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 19:15:47 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As you have already guessed the whalesare at the rubbing beaches,
Helena
16 Sep 2006 21:06:22 PDT
No orcas present.
After the beaches the whales most likely continued east.
Helena
16 Sep 2006 22:23:03 PDT
Friday, September 15, 2006
15 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Time to review: We now thinl that only the A12s, I15s,I11s, part of the I31s came in last night and met up with the A30s off of Ecological Reserve before continuing eastward out of range. Possibly the G2s were there as well but that is still unclear. This morning the rest of the "crowd" arrived going through Blackney Pass. These were the G12s, part of the I31s, the G3s,G18s,G29s and, of course, the A36s.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 13:46:27 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Thasnks to Discovery we know that the BIG CROWD has neared the Ecological Reserve on their way to the west. Might be exciting!
Helena
15 Sep 2006 15:27:09 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
They are just coming into range now.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 15:29:17 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups are moving westward,already past CP.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 17:54:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s are the last group to come back from the east. They are approaching CP at the moment. The other groups are still to the west of CP.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 18:42:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The "crowd" went through Weynton Pass and are now at the top end (western) end of Blackfish Sound. The tide has just turned to the flood.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 19:54:19 PDT
Orcas near mics.
If you are wondering? The A12s rushed through Blackney, no one else followed. They are now closing in on Robson Bight after heading east in the Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 21:45:20 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We are hearing whales move through Blackney Pass heading south. There are no calls yet so we cannot be sure who is following the A12s into the Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 23:10:48 PDT
No orcas present.
Time to review: We now thinl that only the A12s, I15s,I11s, part of the I31s came in last night and met up with the A30s off of Ecological Reserve before continuing eastward out of range. Possibly the G2s were there as well but that is still unclear. This morning the rest of the "crowd" arrived going through Blackney Pass. These were the G12s, part of the I31s, the G3s,G18s,G29s and, of course, the A36s.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 13:46:27 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Thasnks to Discovery we know that the BIG CROWD has neared the Ecological Reserve on their way to the west. Might be exciting!
Helena
15 Sep 2006 15:27:09 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
They are just coming into range now.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 15:29:17 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups are moving westward,already past CP.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 17:54:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s are the last group to come back from the east. They are approaching CP at the moment. The other groups are still to the west of CP.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 18:42:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The "crowd" went through Weynton Pass and are now at the top end (western) end of Blackfish Sound. The tide has just turned to the flood.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 19:54:19 PDT
Orcas near mics.
If you are wondering? The A12s rushed through Blackney, no one else followed. They are now closing in on Robson Bight after heading east in the Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 21:45:20 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We are hearing whales move through Blackney Pass heading south. There are no calls yet so we cannot be sure who is following the A12s into the Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2006 23:10:48 PDT
Thursday, September 14, 2006
14 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
The "crowd" came up to CP and the entrance of Blackney Pass and headed out to Blackfish Sound and beyond very quickly on the ebbing tide.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 00:43:49 PDT
No orcas present.
The whales have stayed pretty much in Queen Charlotte Strait all day but we got a report around 3pm from Stubbs Island Whale Watch that the A12s,A36s, I11s,I31s and the several other G clan groups are now moving eastward from Malcolm Point. The A30s spent the day very slowly moving toward that group and in Queen Charlotte Strait as well.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 16:03:42 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Beautiful resting calls from the Gclan and A1s coming through Blackney Pass. They are travelling south toward Johnstone Strait. The A30s are quiet at the momnet but were recently in Robson Bight.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 21:43:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The "crowd" (described earlier by Stubbs Island: A12s,A36s,I11s,I31s,I33s,G02s, G12s, G18s G29s. G03s, I15s) are now past CP, following the A30s eastward.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 22:28:51 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The "crowd" came up to CP and the entrance of Blackney Pass and headed out to Blackfish Sound and beyond very quickly on the ebbing tide.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 00:43:49 PDT
No orcas present.
The whales have stayed pretty much in Queen Charlotte Strait all day but we got a report around 3pm from Stubbs Island Whale Watch that the A12s,A36s, I11s,I31s and the several other G clan groups are now moving eastward from Malcolm Point. The A30s spent the day very slowly moving toward that group and in Queen Charlotte Strait as well.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 16:03:42 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Beautiful resting calls from the Gclan and A1s coming through Blackney Pass. They are travelling south toward Johnstone Strait. The A30s are quiet at the momnet but were recently in Robson Bight.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 21:43:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The "crowd" (described earlier by Stubbs Island: A12s,A36s,I11s,I31s,I33s,G02s, G12s, G18s G29s. G03s, I15s) are now past CP, following the A30s eastward.
Helena
14 Sep 2006 22:28:51 PDT
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
13 September 2006, Oralab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Possibly all the groups from the past few days are here, travelling west, together. We have heard all three A1 groups, I31s, possibly I11s and various other G groups as well.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 11:20:06 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The whales too two different routes to Blackfish Sound, some via Weynton Pass and others through Blackney Pass. All ended up at the top end of Blackfish Sound where they foraged and waited for the tide to turn. An hour before the slack they made their move and all came through Blackney Pass and on to Johnstone Strait. Now with the tide and the wind at their backs they are headed east towards the Ecological Reserve. A wonderfully blustery day, sunny, high waves and fluffy clouds!
Helena
13 Sep 2006 16:57:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After the A12s,A30s,A36s, I15s,I11s,I31s and the G3s,G29s, G18s, G12s, G2s got into Johnstone Strait thy headed soon off to the east. The A30s seemed rather restless but stayed as part of the crowd. They were rather quickly out of our range after a few good rubs.Just now, we started to hear distant A30 calls returning from the east.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 22:22:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It sounds like the A30s are pulling the whole crowd to the west.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 22:32:12 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Possibly all the groups from the past few days are here, travelling west, together. We have heard all three A1 groups, I31s, possibly I11s and various other G groups as well.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 11:20:06 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The whales too two different routes to Blackfish Sound, some via Weynton Pass and others through Blackney Pass. All ended up at the top end of Blackfish Sound where they foraged and waited for the tide to turn. An hour before the slack they made their move and all came through Blackney Pass and on to Johnstone Strait. Now with the tide and the wind at their backs they are headed east towards the Ecological Reserve. A wonderfully blustery day, sunny, high waves and fluffy clouds!
Helena
13 Sep 2006 16:57:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After the A12s,A30s,A36s, I15s,I11s,I31s and the G3s,G29s, G18s, G12s, G2s got into Johnstone Strait thy headed soon off to the east. The A30s seemed rather restless but stayed as part of the crowd. They were rather quickly out of our range after a few good rubs.Just now, we started to hear distant A30 calls returning from the east.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 22:22:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It sounds like the A30s are pulling the whole crowd to the west.
Helena
13 Sep 2006 22:32:12 PDT
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
12 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Not sure when it happened but all the groups are back in the Strait and already heading back to the west. CP can see groups on the Vancouver Island spread from Kaikash Creek and almost Blinkhorn! There must have been a alot of movement last night from the time after we heard the A12s pass through Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 07:25:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Around 8:30am these very interesting whales turned around a little shy of Blinkhorn. The I15s were first get get to the beaches and we suspect the A36s followed. There are whales spread out back to Critical Point and across the Strait - all moving eastward despite the ebbing tide (the tide turned at 8:30am as well). The Gikumi has found the A12s stalled off of Donegal Head. We believe the A30s,A36s,I15s,I11s,I31s,G2s,G3s,G29,G18s and G12s should be the groups in the Strait.
Helena
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing distant A12s (not a lot of calls) in Blackfish Sound. They apparently dropped into the western end of Blackfish for a bite to eat. The other groups are still eastbound past Naka Creek.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 13:12:46 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s went through Weynton Pass. They are now eastbound in Johnstone Strait. The other groups (the A30s,A36s, Gs, I11s, I15s and I31s) have continued eastward from Naka Creek.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 14:31:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After a lovely long foraging pause off of the entrance ot Blackney Pass and CP the A12s have finally moved off towards the east. We got a report that the G18s left all the other easbound groups off the Adams River earlier and are on their way back to the west.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 18:10:44 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Not sure when it happened but all the groups are back in the Strait and already heading back to the west. CP can see groups on the Vancouver Island spread from Kaikash Creek and almost Blinkhorn! There must have been a alot of movement last night from the time after we heard the A12s pass through Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 07:25:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Around 8:30am these very interesting whales turned around a little shy of Blinkhorn. The I15s were first get get to the beaches and we suspect the A36s followed. There are whales spread out back to Critical Point and across the Strait - all moving eastward despite the ebbing tide (the tide turned at 8:30am as well). The Gikumi has found the A12s stalled off of Donegal Head. We believe the A30s,A36s,I15s,I11s,I31s,G2s,G3s,G29,G18s and G12s should be the groups in the Strait.
Helena
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing distant A12s (not a lot of calls) in Blackfish Sound. They apparently dropped into the western end of Blackfish for a bite to eat. The other groups are still eastbound past Naka Creek.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 13:12:46 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s went through Weynton Pass. They are now eastbound in Johnstone Strait. The other groups (the A30s,A36s, Gs, I11s, I15s and I31s) have continued eastward from Naka Creek.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 14:31:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After a lovely long foraging pause off of the entrance ot Blackney Pass and CP the A12s have finally moved off towards the east. We got a report that the G18s left all the other easbound groups off the Adams River earlier and are on their way back to the west.
Helena
12 Sep 2006 18:10:44 PDT
Monday, September 11, 2006
11 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Life began again around 3am when we heard the A30s heading east back in Johnstone Strait. After an hour we began to hear distant G clan calls coming up from the east. Since then there has been steady movement. The I11s just went through Blackney Pass and are now in Blackfish Sound while the rest,the A30s,I15s,I31s,A36s and the other G groups, are spread out foraging from CP to the area off of Robson Bight.
Helena
11 Sep 2006 07:27:48 PDT
No orcas present.
After the I11s went through Blackney Pass the other groups( the A30s,I15s,I31s,G2s,G3s,G18s,G29s,G12s and the A36s) all went through Weynton Pass on the ebb tide and then stalled for quite a while in Queen Charlotte Strait. They still seem determined to remain there and are even heading west off Lizard Point, despite the strong flooding tide which should be encouraging them to come back. There was a report of a group of 8 heading west at Stimpson Reefs quite a while ago but we have not heard anything turn up near the Ecological Reserve yet. So it is a very in between day today.
Helena
11 Sep 2006 15:59:25 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Life began again around 3am when we heard the A30s heading east back in Johnstone Strait. After an hour we began to hear distant G clan calls coming up from the east. Since then there has been steady movement. The I11s just went through Blackney Pass and are now in Blackfish Sound while the rest,the A30s,I15s,I31s,A36s and the other G groups, are spread out foraging from CP to the area off of Robson Bight.
Helena
11 Sep 2006 07:27:48 PDT
No orcas present.
After the I11s went through Blackney Pass the other groups( the A30s,I15s,I31s,G2s,G3s,G18s,G29s,G12s and the A36s) all went through Weynton Pass on the ebb tide and then stalled for quite a while in Queen Charlotte Strait. They still seem determined to remain there and are even heading west off Lizard Point, despite the strong flooding tide which should be encouraging them to come back. There was a report of a group of 8 heading west at Stimpson Reefs quite a while ago but we have not heard anything turn up near the Ecological Reserve yet. So it is a very in between day today.
Helena
11 Sep 2006 15:59:25 PDT
Sunday, September 10, 2006
10 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
The Lukwa followed up on reports of whales near Forward Bay and Naka Creek and headed down the Strait in that direction this morning. They have since located the lead groups just east of the Ecological Reserve and like yesterday the whales are coming west for the morning. Cool damp (not wet) weather this morning.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 10:19:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s,I15s, and I31s are past CP now and making their way west while stopping to forage intensely off the entrance to Blackney Pass. Our first of the season southeaster is stirring.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 13:22:13 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s, I15s and I31s left their foraging spot off the entrance to Weynton Pass in Johnstone Strait to head east to the entrance of Blackney Pass where they are now.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 16:42:48 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After staying off the entrance to Blackney Pass for quite a while, where to go was finally resolved with the A30s taking off and heading into Blackney Pass. The I15s stayed with them until the decision was made and then they followed the I11s and I31s to Robson Bight. Just recently, we thought we might have heard the A36s in the big group off of the Bight - did they come up from the east? The A30s have not had a lot to say. Reports from the east said the A12s spent the day in Discovery Channel. No word on the other G clan groups who should be still to the east - somewhere.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 20:32:01 PDT
No orcas present.
The Lukwa followed up on reports of whales near Forward Bay and Naka Creek and headed down the Strait in that direction this morning. They have since located the lead groups just east of the Ecological Reserve and like yesterday the whales are coming west for the morning. Cool damp (not wet) weather this morning.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 10:19:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s,I15s, and I31s are past CP now and making their way west while stopping to forage intensely off the entrance to Blackney Pass. Our first of the season southeaster is stirring.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 13:22:13 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s, I15s and I31s left their foraging spot off the entrance to Weynton Pass in Johnstone Strait to head east to the entrance of Blackney Pass where they are now.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 16:42:48 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After staying off the entrance to Blackney Pass for quite a while, where to go was finally resolved with the A30s taking off and heading into Blackney Pass. The I15s stayed with them until the decision was made and then they followed the I11s and I31s to Robson Bight. Just recently, we thought we might have heard the A36s in the big group off of the Bight - did they come up from the east? The A30s have not had a lot to say. Reports from the east said the A12s spent the day in Discovery Channel. No word on the other G clan groups who should be still to the east - somewhere.
Helena
10 Sep 2006 20:32:01 PDT
Saturday, September 09, 2006
09 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Except for a few additional distant calls east of Critical Point around midnight, it has been a pretty quiet night. So we think the whales kept going east.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 08:49:23 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We just started to hear super faint G and A calls east of the eastern end of the Reserve. Whales coming west!
Helena
09 Sep 2006 10:50:33 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
What a busy place - Johnstone Strait. So far the A30s, A36s, G18s, I11s, I15s, G02s have been identified. There are probably more, if not most of the groups from yesterday. They all went up west to the entrance of Weynton and then pushed their way partly through the Pass against the strongly ebbing tide before they turned around. They are now moving with the current back into Johnstone Strait. Hard at this point to tell if they have met up with new incoming groups.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 15:30:34 PDT
No orcas present.
This feels very similar to last night with the whales continuing to the east past the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve despite the ebbing tide. After midnight they will have the tide with them which will certainly make it easier for them to go further east. In the area we believe are: all the A1s, the I11s,I15s,I31s, G2s,G3s, G18s,G12s, G29s.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 21:47:08 PDT
No orcas present.
Except for a few additional distant calls east of Critical Point around midnight, it has been a pretty quiet night. So we think the whales kept going east.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 08:49:23 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We just started to hear super faint G and A calls east of the eastern end of the Reserve. Whales coming west!
Helena
09 Sep 2006 10:50:33 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
What a busy place - Johnstone Strait. So far the A30s, A36s, G18s, I11s, I15s, G02s have been identified. There are probably more, if not most of the groups from yesterday. They all went up west to the entrance of Weynton and then pushed their way partly through the Pass against the strongly ebbing tide before they turned around. They are now moving with the current back into Johnstone Strait. Hard at this point to tell if they have met up with new incoming groups.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 15:30:34 PDT
No orcas present.
This feels very similar to last night with the whales continuing to the east past the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve despite the ebbing tide. After midnight they will have the tide with them which will certainly make it easier for them to go further east. In the area we believe are: all the A1s, the I11s,I15s,I31s, G2s,G3s, G18s,G12s, G29s.
Helena
09 Sep 2006 21:47:08 PDT
Friday, September 08, 2006
08 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s just rushed past us on the ebbing tide. They are now heading west in Blackfish Sound. We have not seen or heard of the I15s so we are not sure if they are still in the Strait or if they too have gone out. It is trying to rain! Yea!
Helena
08 Sep 2006 07:49:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s showed up at the top end of Blackfish Sound after apparently coming through Weynton Pass earlier. (Thanks to Jim Borrowman for the sighting)They have met up with the A30s who went north through Blackney Pass earlier to arrive at the same location as the I15s. Both groups are spread out, vocal, milling. We have heard of an "Incoming" group further west in Queen Charlotte Strait. This might be an interesting afternoon.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 09:55:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s eventually made it into Blackney Pass just as the tide was changing from slack to flood. They are now in Johnstone Strait. They were excited,breaching, spyhopping, porpoising when travelling through the Pass. We have heard (thanks to DFO) that at least the Gs,A36s,A12s and some of the I31s are the incoming group reported earlier. It is raining harder! Yea! Yea!
Helena
08 Sep 2006 12:02:29 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The map will not show it but all the groups who were in Queen Charlotte Strait earlier went through Blackfish Sound and Blackney Pass to get into Johnstone Strait. These groups are now eastbound following the I15s and the A30s who disappeared that direction quite a while ago. As reported: the A12s, I35s (including I46 and I80), the G2s, G3s,G18s,G12s, I112s and A36s all arrived today.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 17:45:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After quite the jamboree (?sp) in Robson Bight, it seems as if the whales have kept going to the east. The tide is now ebbing but whether that will change their momentum is hard to say. Anyway, we figure around 80 whales are "in" today. Nice to have all the A1s back. Just about the whole of G clan is here as well.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 21:18:29 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s just rushed past us on the ebbing tide. They are now heading west in Blackfish Sound. We have not seen or heard of the I15s so we are not sure if they are still in the Strait or if they too have gone out. It is trying to rain! Yea!
Helena
08 Sep 2006 07:49:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s showed up at the top end of Blackfish Sound after apparently coming through Weynton Pass earlier. (Thanks to Jim Borrowman for the sighting)They have met up with the A30s who went north through Blackney Pass earlier to arrive at the same location as the I15s. Both groups are spread out, vocal, milling. We have heard of an "Incoming" group further west in Queen Charlotte Strait. This might be an interesting afternoon.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 09:55:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s eventually made it into Blackney Pass just as the tide was changing from slack to flood. They are now in Johnstone Strait. They were excited,breaching, spyhopping, porpoising when travelling through the Pass. We have heard (thanks to DFO) that at least the Gs,A36s,A12s and some of the I31s are the incoming group reported earlier. It is raining harder! Yea! Yea!
Helena
08 Sep 2006 12:02:29 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The map will not show it but all the groups who were in Queen Charlotte Strait earlier went through Blackfish Sound and Blackney Pass to get into Johnstone Strait. These groups are now eastbound following the I15s and the A30s who disappeared that direction quite a while ago. As reported: the A12s, I35s (including I46 and I80), the G2s, G3s,G18s,G12s, I112s and A36s all arrived today.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 17:45:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After quite the jamboree (?sp) in Robson Bight, it seems as if the whales have kept going to the east. The tide is now ebbing but whether that will change their momentum is hard to say. Anyway, we figure around 80 whales are "in" today. Nice to have all the A1s back. Just about the whole of G clan is here as well.
Helena
08 Sep 2006 21:18:29 PDT
Thursday, September 07, 2006
07 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
The A30s were heard on the rubbing beaches just before 2am. Not long afterwards both the I15s and the A30s came to the Robson Bight area where they stayed for quite a long time before heading west to CP and north into Blackney. Both groups are now on their way to Blackfish Sound.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 05:58:34 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
After spending all of the morning and part of the afternoon in Queen Charlotte Strait the I15s and the A30s decided to follow the flood into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. They have just recently entered the Strait and are eastbound. No calls so far from these relaxed whales.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 14:53:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s (leading) and the I15s have passed CP midstrait and are now continuing east.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 16:28:33 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and the I15s are moving back to the west. The made a nice pass the Bight.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 21:49:52 PDT
No orcas present.
We lost track of the A30s and the I15s about an hour ago somewhere off Robson Bight. It seemed for a while they might come west but it has not been clear if that has happened. The tide is now flooding and we suspect that they went back to the east, perhaps on the Cracroft Island side. We will have to wait.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 23:30:36 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s were heard on the rubbing beaches just before 2am. Not long afterwards both the I15s and the A30s came to the Robson Bight area where they stayed for quite a long time before heading west to CP and north into Blackney. Both groups are now on their way to Blackfish Sound.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 05:58:34 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
After spending all of the morning and part of the afternoon in Queen Charlotte Strait the I15s and the A30s decided to follow the flood into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. They have just recently entered the Strait and are eastbound. No calls so far from these relaxed whales.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 14:53:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s (leading) and the I15s have passed CP midstrait and are now continuing east.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 16:28:33 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and the I15s are moving back to the west. The made a nice pass the Bight.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 21:49:52 PDT
No orcas present.
We lost track of the A30s and the I15s about an hour ago somewhere off Robson Bight. It seemed for a while they might come west but it has not been clear if that has happened. The tide is now flooding and we suspect that they went back to the east, perhaps on the Cracroft Island side. We will have to wait.
Helena
07 Sep 2006 23:30:36 PDT
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
06 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas near mics.
It has been a busy night for the A30s and the I15s. After their time at the beaches they moved, eventually back to the west, comng as far as the entrance to Blackney pass. The A30s shifted back to the Strait first and then silent while the I15s lingered a while longer and then followed. The I15s remained vocal as they moved back eastward. As the neared the Robson Bight area the A30s became vocal briefly. The two groups may be taking advantage of the last of the flood (it turns soon to an ebb) to carry on to the east.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 03:11:26 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s and the I15s turned east of Boat ay around 9am. They are quietly making their way to the west spread out from shore to shore opposite and "in" the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 10:38:04 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Very slowly the I15s and the A30s are moving west -sleepy day.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 12:05:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are now right off CP foraging. The A30s further out.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 13:17:47 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After making the turn at the western end of Hanson Island at 2:35pm, the I15s crossed to the Vancouver Island side and continued east to the Bight. The A30s stalled off of CP and foraged for a while off the entrance to Blackney Pass before heading east and joining the I15s in the Reserve. Nice afternoon calls.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 17:50:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The 15s seemed to disappear around Critical Point around 6:30pm. The A30s have not been quite as decisive. For the last two hours they have shifted about, never coming west enough to be heard on CP, never far enough east to be heard on the rubbing beach system. Perhaps they have been moving back and forth across the Strait.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 22:11:08 PDT
No orcas present.
It seems the A30s may have followed the I15s to the east.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 22:51:27 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It has been a busy night for the A30s and the I15s. After their time at the beaches they moved, eventually back to the west, comng as far as the entrance to Blackney pass. The A30s shifted back to the Strait first and then silent while the I15s lingered a while longer and then followed. The I15s remained vocal as they moved back eastward. As the neared the Robson Bight area the A30s became vocal briefly. The two groups may be taking advantage of the last of the flood (it turns soon to an ebb) to carry on to the east.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 03:11:26 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s and the I15s turned east of Boat ay around 9am. They are quietly making their way to the west spread out from shore to shore opposite and "in" the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 10:38:04 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Very slowly the I15s and the A30s are moving west -sleepy day.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 12:05:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are now right off CP foraging. The A30s further out.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 13:17:47 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After making the turn at the western end of Hanson Island at 2:35pm, the I15s crossed to the Vancouver Island side and continued east to the Bight. The A30s stalled off of CP and foraged for a while off the entrance to Blackney Pass before heading east and joining the I15s in the Reserve. Nice afternoon calls.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 17:50:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The 15s seemed to disappear around Critical Point around 6:30pm. The A30s have not been quite as decisive. For the last two hours they have shifted about, never coming west enough to be heard on CP, never far enough east to be heard on the rubbing beach system. Perhaps they have been moving back and forth across the Strait.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 22:11:08 PDT
No orcas present.
It seems the A30s may have followed the I15s to the east.
Helena
06 Sep 2006 22:51:27 PDT
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
05 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
The A30s turned back to the east after grabbing a bite to eat off of Critical Point. They have since met up with the I15s. Both are now really westbound.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 10:05:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s carried on west past CP to the top end of Hanson Island. They have turned (15:50pm) and are now eastbound once again.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 13:18:05 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
On the eastern turn and trek the I15s slipped into Blackney Pass silently. They got only half way before they turned and went back to the Strait. There have been no calls during all of this movemnt. The A30s continued toward the Ecological Reserve. Except for a couple of calls they have been quiet as well.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 15:54:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The boat noise is now beginning (a cruiseship) but just before the A30s and the I15s moved through Robson Bight with wonderful clear calls. Lovely. They are,we believe, continuing through the rest of the Reserve to the east. Next stop the beaches?
Helena
05 Sep 2006 18:51:55 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As the A3os and the I15s enjoyed a long, long rub at the beaches the almost full moon rose over the mountains of Vancouver Island. A lovely velvet soft evening.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 20:35:38 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s turned back to the east after grabbing a bite to eat off of Critical Point. They have since met up with the I15s. Both are now really westbound.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 10:05:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I15s carried on west past CP to the top end of Hanson Island. They have turned (15:50pm) and are now eastbound once again.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 13:18:05 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
On the eastern turn and trek the I15s slipped into Blackney Pass silently. They got only half way before they turned and went back to the Strait. There have been no calls during all of this movemnt. The A30s continued toward the Ecological Reserve. Except for a couple of calls they have been quiet as well.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 15:54:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The boat noise is now beginning (a cruiseship) but just before the A30s and the I15s moved through Robson Bight with wonderful clear calls. Lovely. They are,we believe, continuing through the rest of the Reserve to the east. Next stop the beaches?
Helena
05 Sep 2006 18:51:55 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As the A3os and the I15s enjoyed a long, long rub at the beaches the almost full moon rose over the mountains of Vancouver Island. A lovely velvet soft evening.
Helena
05 Sep 2006 20:35:38 PDT
Monday, September 04, 2006
04 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing a lot of G clan calls at the top of Blackfish Sound. Zero/zero visibilty this morning.
Helena
04 Sep 2006 08:18:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing calls in Johnstone Strait but the boat noise is also horrendous!
Helena
04 Sep 2006 09:16:31 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
I feel that we may have missed some movement. The calls of the I15s suddenly became very close on Critical Point. They then rushed down to the beaches and had a short intense rub. Then in the distance we heard 1 R clan call! There are also whales being reported at the eastern end of Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
04 Sep 2006 10:30:42 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing a lot of G clan calls at the top of Blackfish Sound. Zero/zero visibilty this morning.
Helena
04 Sep 2006 08:18:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing calls in Johnstone Strait but the boat noise is also horrendous!
Helena
04 Sep 2006 09:16:31 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
I feel that we may have missed some movement. The calls of the I15s suddenly became very close on Critical Point. They then rushed down to the beaches and had a short intense rub. Then in the distance we heard 1 R clan call! There are also whales being reported at the eastern end of Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
04 Sep 2006 10:30:42 PDT
Sunday, September 03, 2006
03 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Boat noise
We think the A12s & I33s went through Weynton Pass. We are waiting to hear them come into the Strait. Last night we lost track of the I11s when they were westbound in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
03 Sep 2006 08:36:29 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As the Bs,A12s,I33s move further east we have become aware of other groups moving west into the eastern part of the Reserve. So far, at the beahces we have heard: I11s,Gs,I15s,As and now I11s again I31s. There are, to put it mildly, a lot of whales in Johnstone Strait - all near and around the Michael Bigg/Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Sep 2006 12:35:26 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The I15s & the I31s have just led the I11s through Blackney Pass. It is possible the Bs & A12s continued east, we have not heard their calls since they were at the beaches. We have heard a report that the very large group that was to the east all day today were westbound at St Vincent's Bight. Also, there was another group reported headed "in" from Donegal Head - our heads are spinning.
Helena
03 Sep 2006 21:05:22 PDT
Boat noise
We think the A12s & I33s went through Weynton Pass. We are waiting to hear them come into the Strait. Last night we lost track of the I11s when they were westbound in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
03 Sep 2006 08:36:29 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As the Bs,A12s,I33s move further east we have become aware of other groups moving west into the eastern part of the Reserve. So far, at the beahces we have heard: I11s,Gs,I15s,As and now I11s again I31s. There are, to put it mildly, a lot of whales in Johnstone Strait - all near and around the Michael Bigg/Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Sep 2006 12:35:26 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The I15s & the I31s have just led the I11s through Blackney Pass. It is possible the Bs & A12s continued east, we have not heard their calls since they were at the beaches. We have heard a report that the very large group that was to the east all day today were westbound at St Vincent's Bight. Also, there was another group reported headed "in" from Donegal Head - our heads are spinning.
Helena
03 Sep 2006 21:05:22 PDT
Saturday, September 02, 2006
02 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Always interesting. As the A12s moved toward Robson Bight, the A30s and the I15s were heard once more on the Rubbing Beach system. They were not rubbing, just chatting. After a while the I15s slipped away to the east and the A30s continued. The A12s continued calling as well. Then finally the A30s slipped away to the east too, leaving the A12s calling on their own. Finally the A12s rounded Critical Point and headed to the beaches where they are now. A few quiet rubs have followed a few energetic ones and we wonder if the A12s won't follow everyone east.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 00:26:31 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I11s and the I15s were the groups westbound in the Strait as the A12s and the I33s came through Blackney Pass. The Johnstone Strait groups are spread out off the western end of Hanson Island to the Vancouver Island side. Their progress is now quite slow as they stop and forage. The a12s and the I33s continued west and are now past Lizard Point in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 11:41:16 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s and part of the I31s (the I35s,I46) circled around Hanson Island after leaving the Strait around noon. They left the I11s behind to forage off of Telegraph Cove and the entrance to Weynton Pass. The I11s have since turned east and all the groups are off the entrance to Blackney Pass after coming from their respective directions. A whale rendezvous of sorts, lovely calls too.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 16:05:23 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s, I31s,I11s have gone for a rub. It may be a quick one. While they were off robson Bight we also heard distant A1 calls - perhaps the A30s calling them eastward!
Helena
02 Sep 2006 18:21:24 PDT
Boat noise
The I11s may not have listened to the siren call after all. We believe they headed back to the west where they were earlier today. We are waiting to find out if they head out or turn back once again. We still believe the I15s and i35s+ continued to the east. The A30s, A4s,A5s and the three G groups are still east as well.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 21:08:52 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Always interesting. As the A12s moved toward Robson Bight, the A30s and the I15s were heard once more on the Rubbing Beach system. They were not rubbing, just chatting. After a while the I15s slipped away to the east and the A30s continued. The A12s continued calling as well. Then finally the A30s slipped away to the east too, leaving the A12s calling on their own. Finally the A12s rounded Critical Point and headed to the beaches where they are now. A few quiet rubs have followed a few energetic ones and we wonder if the A12s won't follow everyone east.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 00:26:31 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I11s and the I15s were the groups westbound in the Strait as the A12s and the I33s came through Blackney Pass. The Johnstone Strait groups are spread out off the western end of Hanson Island to the Vancouver Island side. Their progress is now quite slow as they stop and forage. The a12s and the I33s continued west and are now past Lizard Point in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 11:41:16 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s and part of the I31s (the I35s,I46) circled around Hanson Island after leaving the Strait around noon. They left the I11s behind to forage off of Telegraph Cove and the entrance to Weynton Pass. The I11s have since turned east and all the groups are off the entrance to Blackney Pass after coming from their respective directions. A whale rendezvous of sorts, lovely calls too.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 16:05:23 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s, I31s,I11s have gone for a rub. It may be a quick one. While they were off robson Bight we also heard distant A1 calls - perhaps the A30s calling them eastward!
Helena
02 Sep 2006 18:21:24 PDT
Boat noise
The I11s may not have listened to the siren call after all. We believe they headed back to the west where they were earlier today. We are waiting to find out if they head out or turn back once again. We still believe the I15s and i35s+ continued to the east. The A30s, A4s,A5s and the three G groups are still east as well.
Helena
02 Sep 2006 21:08:52 PDT
Friday, September 01, 2006
01 September 2006, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
Nice surprise. The I15s turned up close to CP and then they and the A30s moved in together into Blackney Pass. We may have lost track of the I11/I31 group. Their calls were growing distant just as the I15s drew closer to CP. Then they went quiet. BUT perhaps they followed the others into Blackney. Regardless, all three groups are westbound and moving out of the area on the ebb tide.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 00:27:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Shortly after 6am we began to hear calls in Blackfish Sound. These were followed by the A30s, and then the I15s, coming into Blackney Pass. The I15s were closer to the Lab, the A30s closer to the other side. They are now headed to Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 07:11:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
As the A30s and the I15s moved on eastward, the I11s appeared opposite CP from the west. Interesting that each group retread their path from last night, coming back through the same waters they used last night. All three groups are eastbound together headed toward the Robson Bight area.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 07:55:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The day keeps developing along positve lines. The Gs have joined the A30s, I15s and I11s off the Robson Bight area after a brief rub at the beaches. The A4s,A5s and A12s are not far off as well.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 09:17:05 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups, numbering near to 90 whales, are going west. The majority have already passed CP. The list includes: the A5s,I11s,A30s,I15s,G3s,G18s, G29s,A4s,A12s,and possibly the I31s.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 11:16:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Now there a lot of whales everywhere! The A12s and the I31s came through Blackney pass a short while ago and they are now on their way west through Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, all the others have turned, some got as far as the entrance to Weynton Passage, and they are now silently eastbound. The A30s are in the lead and must be near Izumi Rock and the Reserve beyond. A12, herself, led the charge into Blackney.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 13:45:38 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales have been back at the beaches for hours. The A30s and the I15s had a fisrt rub and then as they other groups (the A4s,A5s, Gs,I11s) slowly made their way past Critical Point another long rub began. Eventually, someone from each call group joined in and the rub continued forever. They may have finally decided to move on. meanwhile ,we have not heard the I31 and A12s. We had heard they were trying to come back via Weynton against the ebb tide but no "word" yet as to how far they have come.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 19:20:21 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Nice surprise. The I15s turned up close to CP and then they and the A30s moved in together into Blackney Pass. We may have lost track of the I11/I31 group. Their calls were growing distant just as the I15s drew closer to CP. Then they went quiet. BUT perhaps they followed the others into Blackney. Regardless, all three groups are westbound and moving out of the area on the ebb tide.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 00:27:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Shortly after 6am we began to hear calls in Blackfish Sound. These were followed by the A30s, and then the I15s, coming into Blackney Pass. The I15s were closer to the Lab, the A30s closer to the other side. They are now headed to Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 07:11:27 PDT
Distant calls audible.
As the A30s and the I15s moved on eastward, the I11s appeared opposite CP from the west. Interesting that each group retread their path from last night, coming back through the same waters they used last night. All three groups are eastbound together headed toward the Robson Bight area.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 07:55:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The day keeps developing along positve lines. The Gs have joined the A30s, I15s and I11s off the Robson Bight area after a brief rub at the beaches. The A4s,A5s and A12s are not far off as well.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 09:17:05 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups, numbering near to 90 whales, are going west. The majority have already passed CP. The list includes: the A5s,I11s,A30s,I15s,G3s,G18s, G29s,A4s,A12s,and possibly the I31s.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 11:16:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Now there a lot of whales everywhere! The A12s and the I31s came through Blackney pass a short while ago and they are now on their way west through Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, all the others have turned, some got as far as the entrance to Weynton Passage, and they are now silently eastbound. The A30s are in the lead and must be near Izumi Rock and the Reserve beyond. A12, herself, led the charge into Blackney.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 13:45:38 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales have been back at the beaches for hours. The A30s and the I15s had a fisrt rub and then as they other groups (the A4s,A5s, Gs,I11s) slowly made their way past Critical Point another long rub began. Eventually, someone from each call group joined in and the rub continued forever. They may have finally decided to move on. meanwhile ,we have not heard the I31 and A12s. We had heard they were trying to come back via Weynton against the ebb tide but no "word" yet as to how far they have come.
Helena
01 Sep 2006 19:20:21 PDT
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
30 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
A large group of orcas, including A1s, A4s, A5s & several G & R clan groups has just headed north through Blackney Pass.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 04:58:44 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Oh boy, still a lot of movement. The A30s,I15s and the R group have come back from the top of Blackfish Sound, travelled through Weynton Pass and headed east in Johnstone Strait. Other groups, the A12s, A5s, I31s and possibly others are following but look like they might come through Blackney Pass. We are waiting. Earlier this morning: the A30s,A11s, I15s, Gs, Rs and I11/I31s passed through Blackney on their way north and west. They were "sort of" following the A36s, Hs and Is who had ventured in as far as Blackney pass before returning to Blackfish Sound and heading out. The A12s, A5s and the rest of the A4s may have stayed Strait side, going to the west and out via Weynton Pass. After sorting themselves out they groups have split and begun travelling as described above.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 12:35:05 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s,A30s,R2s and R7s have moved on from Robson Bight. The I15s have gone into the beaches. The I31s,A12s, A4s,A5s, G3s,G18s,probably the G29s, and I11s went through Blackney Pass, past CP and are now crossing towards the Reserve from the Cracroft Island side.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 14:34:01 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
A large group of orcas, including A1s, A4s, A5s & several G & R clan groups has just headed north through Blackney Pass.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 04:58:44 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Oh boy, still a lot of movement. The A30s,I15s and the R group have come back from the top of Blackfish Sound, travelled through Weynton Pass and headed east in Johnstone Strait. Other groups, the A12s, A5s, I31s and possibly others are following but look like they might come through Blackney Pass. We are waiting. Earlier this morning: the A30s,A11s, I15s, Gs, Rs and I11/I31s passed through Blackney on their way north and west. They were "sort of" following the A36s, Hs and Is who had ventured in as far as Blackney pass before returning to Blackfish Sound and heading out. The A12s, A5s and the rest of the A4s may have stayed Strait side, going to the west and out via Weynton Pass. After sorting themselves out they groups have split and begun travelling as described above.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 12:35:05 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s,A30s,R2s and R7s have moved on from Robson Bight. The I15s have gone into the beaches. The I31s,A12s, A4s,A5s, G3s,G18s,probably the G29s, and I11s went through Blackney Pass, past CP and are now crossing towards the Reserve from the Cracroft Island side.
Helena
30 Aug 2006 14:34:01 PDT
Monday, August 28, 2006
28 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Most of the groups were back in the Strait by 3am & heading east. The A12s are presently having an energetic rub.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 06:33:16 PDT
Boat noise
After a great rub the groups may have headed off to the east. hard to say how far they will go as the tide is now ebbing. We thought they might come back but we have not heard anything for over an hour now. Before the rub, when the whales were off the Robson Bight area, we think the I31s may have come and joined the others around 5am. It was after this that the groups went down to the beaches for an hour rub which ended around 7:30am.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 09:18:18 PDT
Boat noise
Sorry, I forgot to mention who we have heard this morning from the time the majority of the whales had come in: A30s,A12s, A36s, A4s,A5s, I11s,Gs, I15s and possibly the I31s as well.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 09:20:21 PDT
No orcas present.
The G3s, G18s and G29s were almost totally silent as they made their way the entire length of the upper Johnstone Strait area. They woke up in time to go for a rub around 6:40pm. from the beaches they continued east. We heard an update from the eastern part of Johnstone Strait this evening, thanks to Nick of Painter's Lodge. Apparently, the large group (the A12s,A30s, I11s,I15s, A4s, A5s, possibly the G2s and I31s ended up near Bear Bight. This is almost as far east as the Strait goes. It may be a quiet night up here. Nothing developed from the idea that the Rs and the Bs were in town earlier.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 22:22:33 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Most of the groups were back in the Strait by 3am & heading east. The A12s are presently having an energetic rub.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 06:33:16 PDT
Boat noise
After a great rub the groups may have headed off to the east. hard to say how far they will go as the tide is now ebbing. We thought they might come back but we have not heard anything for over an hour now. Before the rub, when the whales were off the Robson Bight area, we think the I31s may have come and joined the others around 5am. It was after this that the groups went down to the beaches for an hour rub which ended around 7:30am.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 09:18:18 PDT
Boat noise
Sorry, I forgot to mention who we have heard this morning from the time the majority of the whales had come in: A30s,A12s, A36s, A4s,A5s, I11s,Gs, I15s and possibly the I31s as well.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 09:20:21 PDT
No orcas present.
The G3s, G18s and G29s were almost totally silent as they made their way the entire length of the upper Johnstone Strait area. They woke up in time to go for a rub around 6:40pm. from the beaches they continued east. We heard an update from the eastern part of Johnstone Strait this evening, thanks to Nick of Painter's Lodge. Apparently, the large group (the A12s,A30s, I11s,I15s, A4s, A5s, possibly the G2s and I31s ended up near Bear Bight. This is almost as far east as the Strait goes. It may be a quiet night up here. Nothing developed from the idea that the Rs and the Bs were in town earlier.
Helena
28 Aug 2006 22:22:33 PDT
Sunday, August 27, 2006
27 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
A great start to the morning. At 5:40am we began to hear groups coming into Blackfish Sound. They did go out through Weynton Pass last night. Jim Borrowman saw them heading into Weynton around 7:50pm. Then 12 hours later here they were, in Blackfish Sound. The first calls were Gs so we thought we might see a lot more groups. When they came around the corner into Blackney, close to the Lab, we only identified the G29s! But they were with the A11s, all the A5s, A30s, I15s, A35s, maybe the A24s. Missing from yesterday were the I31s. We also could not clearly say that the A12s were there as well. It was lovely and as the tide turned to the slack the whales picked up speed and rushed (breaching) into Johnstone Strait. They are headed east towards the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 07:25:52 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Great! A second wave. This time the A12s led the I11s,G2s and others into Blackney from Blackfish Sound. They went into Johnstone Strait against the ebb tide and then headed eastward only to "shut down" and become still just west of the Sophia Islands. The "first wave" is to the east of them still.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 11:18:49 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups are on their way back to western johnstone Strait. The A12s seem to be in the lead but the A30s are not far behind. They are spread across from shore to shore.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 19:18:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It looked like they wanted to go west, some were up to Big Bay but the A24s had other ideas... they wanted to go out Blackney Pass so they called and called and pretty soon all the groups followed them through to Blackfish Sound. The calls are now distant as they continue to move west.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 22:04:41 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
A great start to the morning. At 5:40am we began to hear groups coming into Blackfish Sound. They did go out through Weynton Pass last night. Jim Borrowman saw them heading into Weynton around 7:50pm. Then 12 hours later here they were, in Blackfish Sound. The first calls were Gs so we thought we might see a lot more groups. When they came around the corner into Blackney, close to the Lab, we only identified the G29s! But they were with the A11s, all the A5s, A30s, I15s, A35s, maybe the A24s. Missing from yesterday were the I31s. We also could not clearly say that the A12s were there as well. It was lovely and as the tide turned to the slack the whales picked up speed and rushed (breaching) into Johnstone Strait. They are headed east towards the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 07:25:52 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Great! A second wave. This time the A12s led the I11s,G2s and others into Blackney from Blackfish Sound. They went into Johnstone Strait against the ebb tide and then headed eastward only to "shut down" and become still just west of the Sophia Islands. The "first wave" is to the east of them still.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 11:18:49 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups are on their way back to western johnstone Strait. The A12s seem to be in the lead but the A30s are not far behind. They are spread across from shore to shore.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 19:18:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It looked like they wanted to go west, some were up to Big Bay but the A24s had other ideas... they wanted to go out Blackney Pass so they called and called and pretty soon all the groups followed them through to Blackfish Sound. The calls are now distant as they continue to move west.
Helena
27 Aug 2006 22:04:41 PDT
Saturday, August 26, 2006
26 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Orcas near mics.
Sorry again, we had internet problems this morning AND it has been busy.... the A30s,A36s and I15s have come in. The A12s,I31s,A4s and A5s all came west (starting at 5am), some up as far as Telegraph Cove. The A24s , travelling just behind the A35s,poked their noses into Blackney Pass to have a listen while the others positioned themselves off Weynton Pass tp listen for the incoming A30s,A36s and I15s. Once in all the groups headed east together slowly against the last of the ebbing tide. They are now all in the Reserve, some at the beaches (A12s), others just in at the western boundary.
Helena
26 Aug 2006 13:13:31 PDT
No orcas present.
While most of the resident orcas were at the beaches the T18s plus maybe T124C passed by on the Cracroft Island side. When they were opposite Boat Bay Jared Towers witnessed the I33s pop up just 200 to 300 metres away. The transients sped away to the west and into Blackney Pass. As they reached Blackfish we could hear the I31s (the I33s) leading the rest of the resident groups to the west. Just before dark they were off Telegraph Cove. Where they have gone since is a but of a mystery. The last faint and very distant calls were heard just after 8pm. Did the strong ebb tide encourage them to leave via Weynton? A fishing opening today has increased the boat noise in the Strait making it hard to hear any distant calls.
Helena
26 Aug 2006 22:52:21 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Sorry again, we had internet problems this morning AND it has been busy.... the A30s,A36s and I15s have come in. The A12s,I31s,A4s and A5s all came west (starting at 5am), some up as far as Telegraph Cove. The A24s , travelling just behind the A35s,poked their noses into Blackney Pass to have a listen while the others positioned themselves off Weynton Pass tp listen for the incoming A30s,A36s and I15s. Once in all the groups headed east together slowly against the last of the ebbing tide. They are now all in the Reserve, some at the beaches (A12s), others just in at the western boundary.
Helena
26 Aug 2006 13:13:31 PDT
No orcas present.
While most of the resident orcas were at the beaches the T18s plus maybe T124C passed by on the Cracroft Island side. When they were opposite Boat Bay Jared Towers witnessed the I33s pop up just 200 to 300 metres away. The transients sped away to the west and into Blackney Pass. As they reached Blackfish we could hear the I31s (the I33s) leading the rest of the resident groups to the west. Just before dark they were off Telegraph Cove. Where they have gone since is a but of a mystery. The last faint and very distant calls were heard just after 8pm. Did the strong ebb tide encourage them to leave via Weynton? A fishing opening today has increased the boat noise in the Strait making it hard to hear any distant calls.
Helena
26 Aug 2006 22:52:21 PDT
Monday, August 14, 2006
14 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Good Morning! The A12s,A4s,A5s and the Bs continued to wait off Robson Bight/Boat Bay until around 2am and then finally shifted east. This was very close to when we started to first hear the I15s and the A30s in Blackfish Sound. They were joined by the A36s and several Gs groups, who then proceded ahead to Blackney Pass. After passing through Blackney Pass in a BIG rush all these groups entered the Strait and continued east. They are currently still passing Robson Bight. The tide is in full flood.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 05:36:24 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The whales who went east early this morning are returning and the lead groups are already up to Boat Bay. Meanwhile, the Naiad has been reporting a very large group (included are Ws,Ds,Rs and more) off the Port Hardy area. They are not yet committed to fully coming down to the east.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 13:56:15 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A36s are once again leading the several G groups westward in the Strait. We are also hearing A4s,A5s,A12s & Bs but i don't think we have heard the a30s and the I15s yet. It is,however, a BIG crowd.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 16:18:51 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
My goodness what a day. The OLers were here after their encounter with the Rs, Ws,Ds,C6s,C10s mid Queen Charlotte Strait off Pine Island on the Naiad Explorer. Meanwhile, the A30s,A36s, I15s, A12s, A35s,A24s,A51s, A43s, Bs and the several G groups came out of the east and travelled toward WeyntonPassage. There the Gs probably took off through Weynton Passage and the others returned to the entrance of Blackney Pass where after sorting themselves out they headed into Blackney Pass and past the Lab. The A24s and the Bs were the last through. CP saw the A12s continue to the west in the Strait and it is still unclear what they are going to do.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 20:48:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Good Morning! The A12s,A4s,A5s and the Bs continued to wait off Robson Bight/Boat Bay until around 2am and then finally shifted east. This was very close to when we started to first hear the I15s and the A30s in Blackfish Sound. They were joined by the A36s and several Gs groups, who then proceded ahead to Blackney Pass. After passing through Blackney Pass in a BIG rush all these groups entered the Strait and continued east. They are currently still passing Robson Bight. The tide is in full flood.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 05:36:24 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The whales who went east early this morning are returning and the lead groups are already up to Boat Bay. Meanwhile, the Naiad has been reporting a very large group (included are Ws,Ds,Rs and more) off the Port Hardy area. They are not yet committed to fully coming down to the east.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 13:56:15 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A36s are once again leading the several G groups westward in the Strait. We are also hearing A4s,A5s,A12s & Bs but i don't think we have heard the a30s and the I15s yet. It is,however, a BIG crowd.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 16:18:51 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
My goodness what a day. The OLers were here after their encounter with the Rs, Ws,Ds,C6s,C10s mid Queen Charlotte Strait off Pine Island on the Naiad Explorer. Meanwhile, the A30s,A36s, I15s, A12s, A35s,A24s,A51s, A43s, Bs and the several G groups came out of the east and travelled toward WeyntonPassage. There the Gs probably took off through Weynton Passage and the others returned to the entrance of Blackney Pass where after sorting themselves out they headed into Blackney Pass and past the Lab. The A24s and the Bs were the last through. CP saw the A12s continue to the west in the Strait and it is still unclear what they are going to do.
Helena
14 Aug 2006 20:48:52 PDT
Sunday, August 13, 2006
13 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Last night the Gs and A36s, accompanied by the A30s and the I15s, travelled through Blackney Pass between 7:16 and 8pm. We continued to hear all their calls until 9:15pm. After a short break, the A30s and the I15s were vocal again in Blackfish Sound, returned and came back through Blackney Pass between 12:20 and 1am. These two groups then travelled east and disappeared around Critical Point/Robson Bight around 3am. We have heard a report this morning from the MacKays that there is a large group east bound from the Port Hardy area.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 09:13:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s along with A38 went north through Blackney Pass after coming back from the east and passing Cracroft Point. The rest of the A30s followed after crossing Johnstone Strait from the Kaikash area.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 12:38:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Just after the I5s and the A30s headed through Blackfish Sound, the A12s, A11s,A35s,A24s, A51s 7 possibly the A43s came up from the east with the B7s and travelled west on both shores to the Weynton Pass area. They have since turned and are now making their way back. So far we have heard A1 and A4 calls. Lots of boat noise as the seine boats prepare for the 8:30am opening tomorrow.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 18:31:15 PDT
No orcas present.
Last night the Gs and A36s, accompanied by the A30s and the I15s, travelled through Blackney Pass between 7:16 and 8pm. We continued to hear all their calls until 9:15pm. After a short break, the A30s and the I15s were vocal again in Blackfish Sound, returned and came back through Blackney Pass between 12:20 and 1am. These two groups then travelled east and disappeared around Critical Point/Robson Bight around 3am. We have heard a report this morning from the MacKays that there is a large group east bound from the Port Hardy area.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 09:13:24 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s along with A38 went north through Blackney Pass after coming back from the east and passing Cracroft Point. The rest of the A30s followed after crossing Johnstone Strait from the Kaikash area.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 12:38:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Just after the I5s and the A30s headed through Blackfish Sound, the A12s, A11s,A35s,A24s, A51s 7 possibly the A43s came up from the east with the B7s and travelled west on both shores to the Weynton Pass area. They have since turned and are now making their way back. So far we have heard A1 and A4 calls. Lots of boat noise as the seine boats prepare for the 8:30am opening tomorrow.
Helena
13 Aug 2006 18:31:15 PDT
Saturday, August 12, 2006
12 August Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
Hmmm.... definitely the I15s and the A30s came through Blackney Pass. The blows blows were spread out across the Pass. We lost track of the Cs and the Ds around 11:20pm when they were opposite the entrance to Blackney Pass & still in Johnstone Strait. The tide turns to flood at 1am.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 00:34:49 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
An early morning radio report of a large group of orcas "milling around" of Donegal Head suggests the A30s & I15s haven't gone very far. We've lost track of the Cs & Ds, so they could be there too. We're not hearing any calls at the moment.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 07:19:23 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I15s just passed by the Lab very close in on their way to Johnstone Strait. A little further out, the A30s also made their way south. They were bucking the tide the whole way but managed to make steady progress. The I15s were particularly slow, spyhopping and rolling, and resting on the surface.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 12:40:47 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s and the A30s crossed the Strait to Vancouver Island and are now in the Ecological Reserve rounding Critical Point. The A12s,A4s, A5s, Gs and A36s are still to the east. There is a report of a group near Port Neville westbound. Sadly, it looks like I15 and I41 are missing. Graeme Ellis had a chance to look at the group this morning. We had already guessed that I41 was gone but did not know about I15. I16 has most likely lost her youngest calf.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 14:43:49 PDT
Boat noise
The A30s and the I15s are westbound past Critical Point after their very,very long rub on the Main Beach. There have been several reports of other whales westbound on the Cracroft side as well.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 17:56:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are just beginning to hear G calls along with the I15s and the A30s.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 17:58:07 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The G3s, G29s and probably other Gs as well came through Blackney with the A36s, A30s and the I15s. It was a lovely mixed up bunch of travelling whales catching the glow of the evening sunset. They are all now at the top end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 20:57:02 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Hmmm.... definitely the I15s and the A30s came through Blackney Pass. The blows blows were spread out across the Pass. We lost track of the Cs and the Ds around 11:20pm when they were opposite the entrance to Blackney Pass & still in Johnstone Strait. The tide turns to flood at 1am.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 00:34:49 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
An early morning radio report of a large group of orcas "milling around" of Donegal Head suggests the A30s & I15s haven't gone very far. We've lost track of the Cs & Ds, so they could be there too. We're not hearing any calls at the moment.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 07:19:23 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I15s just passed by the Lab very close in on their way to Johnstone Strait. A little further out, the A30s also made their way south. They were bucking the tide the whole way but managed to make steady progress. The I15s were particularly slow, spyhopping and rolling, and resting on the surface.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 12:40:47 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s and the A30s crossed the Strait to Vancouver Island and are now in the Ecological Reserve rounding Critical Point. The A12s,A4s, A5s, Gs and A36s are still to the east. There is a report of a group near Port Neville westbound. Sadly, it looks like I15 and I41 are missing. Graeme Ellis had a chance to look at the group this morning. We had already guessed that I41 was gone but did not know about I15. I16 has most likely lost her youngest calf.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 14:43:49 PDT
Boat noise
The A30s and the I15s are westbound past Critical Point after their very,very long rub on the Main Beach. There have been several reports of other whales westbound on the Cracroft side as well.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 17:56:17 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are just beginning to hear G calls along with the I15s and the A30s.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 17:58:07 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The G3s, G29s and probably other Gs as well came through Blackney with the A36s, A30s and the I15s. It was a lovely mixed up bunch of travelling whales catching the glow of the evening sunset. They are all now at the top end of Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Aug 2006 20:57:02 PDT
Friday, August 11, 2006
11 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the A30s and the I15s disappeared to the east in Johnstone Strait all was quiet until 11pm. Then... calls in Blackfish Sound. In came the Cs, Ds, Gs, and A36s through Blackney Pass. They reached Johnstone Strait on the slack tide andthen made their way east. Just as the last of these groups were approaching Robson Bight the A12s,A4s,A5s,A30s and Bs came up from the east. By 2:30am everyone had turned and moved in the same direction together, We last heard calls at 3:15 as the groups passed the eastern boundary of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 07:17:59 PDT
No orcas present.
The resident orcas who came during the night have remained east all day. A fairly large group of transients (the T100s) turned up off Donegal Head this morning. The went west toward Alet Bay and Port McNeill and then turned around and headed for Alder Bay and Beaver Cove. They were identified by DFO. The fishing opening will close at 6pm so we anticipate the area to be a little less busy tonight.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 16:40:01 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The Ds, Cs & A30s have returned from the east and are now off Robson Bight. Nick Templeton of Painter's Lodge reported tonight that the I15s were on their way through Seymour Narrows (north of Campbell River) on the slack tide while the A12s, A24s & A11s had been in Frederick Arm (also very far east). The Bs were in Nodales (also very far east) The A36s and the Gs were also seen in the east today. The T100s continued to tour the area. After nearing the Reserve they turned and headed back west. They were last seen by the Blue Fjord around 8:30pm off the Nimpkish River opposite Alert Bay.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 22:00:21 PDT
Orcas approaching Orcalab.
Hmmm.... We are actually hearing the I15s off of CP at the moment and it looks like they and the Cs,Ds and A30s are turning into Blackney Pass.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 23:25:06 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the A30s and the I15s disappeared to the east in Johnstone Strait all was quiet until 11pm. Then... calls in Blackfish Sound. In came the Cs, Ds, Gs, and A36s through Blackney Pass. They reached Johnstone Strait on the slack tide andthen made their way east. Just as the last of these groups were approaching Robson Bight the A12s,A4s,A5s,A30s and Bs came up from the east. By 2:30am everyone had turned and moved in the same direction together, We last heard calls at 3:15 as the groups passed the eastern boundary of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 07:17:59 PDT
No orcas present.
The resident orcas who came during the night have remained east all day. A fairly large group of transients (the T100s) turned up off Donegal Head this morning. The went west toward Alet Bay and Port McNeill and then turned around and headed for Alder Bay and Beaver Cove. They were identified by DFO. The fishing opening will close at 6pm so we anticipate the area to be a little less busy tonight.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 16:40:01 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The Ds, Cs & A30s have returned from the east and are now off Robson Bight. Nick Templeton of Painter's Lodge reported tonight that the I15s were on their way through Seymour Narrows (north of Campbell River) on the slack tide while the A12s, A24s & A11s had been in Frederick Arm (also very far east). The Bs were in Nodales (also very far east) The A36s and the Gs were also seen in the east today. The T100s continued to tour the area. After nearing the Reserve they turned and headed back west. They were last seen by the Blue Fjord around 8:30pm off the Nimpkish River opposite Alert Bay.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 22:00:21 PDT
Orcas approaching Orcalab.
Hmmm.... We are actually hearing the I15s off of CP at the moment and it looks like they and the Cs,Ds and A30s are turning into Blackney Pass.
Helena
11 Aug 2006 23:25:06 PDT
Thursday, August 10, 2006
10 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Good morning! The A12s & A5s kept us busy for most of the night while they stalled off Robson Bight. The A24s & Bs were further east but eventually made their way back to the A12s and A5s. Finally, just as these groups moved off to the east, the A30s and the I15s entered the Strait via Weynton Pass. The A30s, ahead of the I15s, went past CP mid strait around 6am. As they crossed over to the Ecological Reserve the I15s followed. The I15s have just rounded Critical Point. Very low tide this morning and it will be ebbing until around noon. This means the I15s and A30s worked the whole time against the tide in order to reach the Strait & the Reserve.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 07:52:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
It sounds like the A30s and the I15s are making their way back. We are now hearing their cals once again off Critical Point/ Robson Bight
Helena
10 Aug 2006 09:51:14 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A11s turned up unexpectedly in Johnstone Strait. We probably missed them going through Blackney Pass. They went west briefly and then turned and headed over to the Vancouver Island shore and down to the Reserve. They are now past Critical Point. While westbound and before their turn they were vocal briefly. This may have influenced the other groups (the A30s,A12s and I15s to finally turn around at the entrance to Weynton Passage. These groups are now slowly moving east but still west of CP. Lovely day ... strong northwesterly breeze but very sunny. There was a large group reported off Camp Point. This may be the Bs, A24s and maybe all of the A5s and the A35s. Hopefully, we find out for sure.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 15:48:09 PDT
No orcas present.
It has turned into a sleepy afternoon. On the turn the whales moved very slowly. The A30s were ahead and further off shore of the I15s. When they got to CP the foraged for a short while as the I15s poked their noses into the entrance of Blackney Pass. By this time it was apparent that the A12s were not around. Perhaps they slipped back east. Meanwhile, the A30s and the I15s are still headed east.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 18:49:11 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Good morning! The A12s & A5s kept us busy for most of the night while they stalled off Robson Bight. The A24s & Bs were further east but eventually made their way back to the A12s and A5s. Finally, just as these groups moved off to the east, the A30s and the I15s entered the Strait via Weynton Pass. The A30s, ahead of the I15s, went past CP mid strait around 6am. As they crossed over to the Ecological Reserve the I15s followed. The I15s have just rounded Critical Point. Very low tide this morning and it will be ebbing until around noon. This means the I15s and A30s worked the whole time against the tide in order to reach the Strait & the Reserve.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 07:52:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
It sounds like the A30s and the I15s are making their way back. We are now hearing their cals once again off Critical Point/ Robson Bight
Helena
10 Aug 2006 09:51:14 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A11s turned up unexpectedly in Johnstone Strait. We probably missed them going through Blackney Pass. They went west briefly and then turned and headed over to the Vancouver Island shore and down to the Reserve. They are now past Critical Point. While westbound and before their turn they were vocal briefly. This may have influenced the other groups (the A30s,A12s and I15s to finally turn around at the entrance to Weynton Passage. These groups are now slowly moving east but still west of CP. Lovely day ... strong northwesterly breeze but very sunny. There was a large group reported off Camp Point. This may be the Bs, A24s and maybe all of the A5s and the A35s. Hopefully, we find out for sure.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 15:48:09 PDT
No orcas present.
It has turned into a sleepy afternoon. On the turn the whales moved very slowly. The A30s were ahead and further off shore of the I15s. When they got to CP the foraged for a short while as the I15s poked their noses into the entrance of Blackney Pass. By this time it was apparent that the A12s were not around. Perhaps they slipped back east. Meanwhile, the A30s and the I15s are still headed east.
Helena
10 Aug 2006 18:49:11 PDT
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
09 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
The B7s led the parade back to the west starting at 2:50am. All the groups (the A4s,A5s,A30s,A12s,Gs,I31s,Rs etc) followed. With the exception of the small A11 group, who went through Blackney Pass, all the rest continued west in Johnstone Strat. We are just now hearing the first groups arrive at the top end of Blackfish Sound after exiting the Strait via Weynton Pass.
Helena
09 Aug 2006 06:39:59 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s came back from Queen Charlotte Strait ahead of the B7s, A24s,A51s and A43s. They all came through Blackney Pass. The A12s are now entering the Ecological Reserve while the others are slowly resting west of the Sophias. The rest of the groups (the A36s, A11s, I15s, Rs, Ds, I31s & Gs) are still headed west in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
09 Aug 2006 14:22:15 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The B7s led the parade back to the west starting at 2:50am. All the groups (the A4s,A5s,A30s,A12s,Gs,I31s,Rs etc) followed. With the exception of the small A11 group, who went through Blackney Pass, all the rest continued west in Johnstone Strat. We are just now hearing the first groups arrive at the top end of Blackfish Sound after exiting the Strait via Weynton Pass.
Helena
09 Aug 2006 06:39:59 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s came back from Queen Charlotte Strait ahead of the B7s, A24s,A51s and A43s. They all came through Blackney Pass. The A12s are now entering the Ecological Reserve while the others are slowly resting west of the Sophias. The rest of the groups (the A36s, A11s, I15s, Rs, Ds, I31s & Gs) are still headed west in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
09 Aug 2006 14:22:15 PDT
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
08 August Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A36s have gone through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, the A30s, I31s, Gs and I15s have continued west in Johnstone Strait. We believve the Bs may have turned around and headed back towards the Reserve after making it as far as Cracroft Point. We have heard a few A4 calls as well. There should still be a a fairly large group to the east, the A5s, possibly the A12s, some more of the A4s and the C6s and D7s. It is very, very foggy today.
Helena
08 Aug 2006 08:26:27 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
There are groups of whales everywhere! In the Strait: the B7s did turn back with the A11s but they are making there way past Critical Point. The A35s just finished at the Beaches and there may be others behind them (the rest of the A4s and A5s). The C6s (at least part of the pod) have gone past Alert Bay to the west. The A30s, I15s, I31s, A36s abd Gs (at least some of the G groups) are out in Queen Charlotte meeting up with incoming Rs and other groups. We don't know where the D7s got to as yet. Very, very busy!
Helena
08 Aug 2006 12:14:29 PDT
No orcas present.
Another superpod day! Several of the groups (the A30s,I31s,Gs, A12s ,A36s and Ds) this morning circled around Hanson Island and met up with the incoming Rs. The C6s headed off by themselves past Alert Bay. The A12s then led all the groups in via Blackney Pass just as the fog was clearing. The groups headed east in Johnstone Strait. After a jump into the beaches together they carried on to the east by 4:30pm. It has been quiet since. Our count was well over 100 whales.
Helena
08 Aug 2006 22:26:02 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A36s have gone through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, the A30s, I31s, Gs and I15s have continued west in Johnstone Strait. We believve the Bs may have turned around and headed back towards the Reserve after making it as far as Cracroft Point. We have heard a few A4 calls as well. There should still be a a fairly large group to the east, the A5s, possibly the A12s, some more of the A4s and the C6s and D7s. It is very, very foggy today.
Helena
08 Aug 2006 08:26:27 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
There are groups of whales everywhere! In the Strait: the B7s did turn back with the A11s but they are making there way past Critical Point. The A35s just finished at the Beaches and there may be others behind them (the rest of the A4s and A5s). The C6s (at least part of the pod) have gone past Alert Bay to the west. The A30s, I15s, I31s, A36s abd Gs (at least some of the G groups) are out in Queen Charlotte meeting up with incoming Rs and other groups. We don't know where the D7s got to as yet. Very, very busy!
Helena
08 Aug 2006 12:14:29 PDT
No orcas present.
Another superpod day! Several of the groups (the A30s,I31s,Gs, A12s ,A36s and Ds) this morning circled around Hanson Island and met up with the incoming Rs. The C6s headed off by themselves past Alert Bay. The A12s then led all the groups in via Blackney Pass just as the fog was clearing. The groups headed east in Johnstone Strait. After a jump into the beaches together they carried on to the east by 4:30pm. It has been quiet since. Our count was well over 100 whales.
Helena
08 Aug 2006 22:26:02 PDT
Sunday, August 06, 2006
06 August 2006, Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
The I15s have arrived for the first time this season! They are accompanied by the A36s, and are presently at in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
06 Aug 2006 08:06:37 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s and the A36s headed down to the east, visited the Rubbing Beach. The A36s are still Rubbing.
Tomoko
06 Aug 2006 12:01:31 PDT
Orcas near mics.
This is becoming quite the day! The I15s and the A36s have already gone through Blackney Pass and east in Johnstone Strait. Bothe groups went in for a rub but the A36s have since come back to the west. The whalewatch boats have been keeping an eye on the Bs in Queen Charlotte Strait. They have company. R clan & possibly G clan calls have also been heard. The good news for us is that these groups are moving towards Blackfish Sound. Are the A36s coming west to meet up? Meanwhile the A30s,A4s,A5s are still quite far east. They were reported in Sunderland Channel earlier. They too were headed west.
Helena
06 Aug 2006 12:38:19 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Each of the groups is taking a turn at the Beaches. So far the I15s, A36s went in soon after their arrival as the first group. The Bs and the I31s were next (the 2nd group through) and now the I15s and the A30s (up from the east) have moved in too. Off Critcial Point the G group (the 3rd group through) are moving eastward towards the Beaches. Jim Borrowman reports that the R5s,R7s, and Ws turned back in Queen Charlotte and headed out to the west without "coming" in. And now, Dall's porpoise have come right into the bay out front ogf the house - Amazing!
Helena
06 Aug 2006 17:39:06 PDT
No orcas present.
The rubs are finally over (7:30pm) and the whales off to the east once again.
Helena
06 Aug 2006 21:58:13 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The I15s have arrived for the first time this season! They are accompanied by the A36s, and are presently at in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
06 Aug 2006 08:06:37 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s and the A36s headed down to the east, visited the Rubbing Beach. The A36s are still Rubbing.
Tomoko
06 Aug 2006 12:01:31 PDT
Orcas near mics.
This is becoming quite the day! The I15s and the A36s have already gone through Blackney Pass and east in Johnstone Strait. Bothe groups went in for a rub but the A36s have since come back to the west. The whalewatch boats have been keeping an eye on the Bs in Queen Charlotte Strait. They have company. R clan & possibly G clan calls have also been heard. The good news for us is that these groups are moving towards Blackfish Sound. Are the A36s coming west to meet up? Meanwhile the A30s,A4s,A5s are still quite far east. They were reported in Sunderland Channel earlier. They too were headed west.
Helena
06 Aug 2006 12:38:19 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Each of the groups is taking a turn at the Beaches. So far the I15s, A36s went in soon after their arrival as the first group. The Bs and the I31s were next (the 2nd group through) and now the I15s and the A30s (up from the east) have moved in too. Off Critcial Point the G group (the 3rd group through) are moving eastward towards the Beaches. Jim Borrowman reports that the R5s,R7s, and Ws turned back in Queen Charlotte and headed out to the west without "coming" in. And now, Dall's porpoise have come right into the bay out front ogf the house - Amazing!
Helena
06 Aug 2006 17:39:06 PDT
No orcas present.
The rubs are finally over (7:30pm) and the whales off to the east once again.
Helena
06 Aug 2006 21:58:13 PDT
Friday, January 13, 2006
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
11 January Orcalab reports:
13:01 PST Superb sounds!!
This morning before 10am we began to hear very distant G clan calls through the constant boat noise in the Strait. We believe the I15s headed west toward beaver Cove and then turned just before 11:30am. Right now it sounds like they are off the entrance to Blackney Pass. Still not completely sure whether or not the I31s are with them. A DFO research boat is out there with them hoping to get some winter feeding data and they may supply the answer! The weather is very changeable but right now, although raining, improving somewhat.
Helena & Paul
14:46 PST Boat noise
We got confirmation on the I31s - all there, I80 still with his uncle I46 - along with the I15s. i41 is still there and looking much the same as he did in the summer. Thanks to Jared Towers for this report. From the calls we believe the whales have continued to the east past Critical Point. There is only boat noise now.
Helena & Paul
13:01 PST Superb sounds!!
This morning before 10am we began to hear very distant G clan calls through the constant boat noise in the Strait. We believe the I15s headed west toward beaver Cove and then turned just before 11:30am. Right now it sounds like they are off the entrance to Blackney Pass. Still not completely sure whether or not the I31s are with them. A DFO research boat is out there with them hoping to get some winter feeding data and they may supply the answer! The weather is very changeable but right now, although raining, improving somewhat.
Helena & Paul
14:46 PST Boat noise
We got confirmation on the I31s - all there, I80 still with his uncle I46 - along with the I15s. i41 is still there and looking much the same as he did in the summer. Thanks to Jared Towers for this report. From the calls we believe the whales have continued to the east past Critical Point. There is only boat noise now.
Helena & Paul
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
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