05 September 2007, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Groups are streaming off to the west: First the Rs (they stayed on the Johnstone Strait side going west) and then the A36s with the I15s (who just went north in Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound). An I31 and/ or I11 group is currently approaching the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Johnstone Strait side. All this and a touch of northeern lights too. We have not heard any A4,A5, A12 or A30 calls yet.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 02:39:11 PDT
Hi Paul & Helena, We saw the A36's and the I15's pass Bere Point close to shore, all mostly resting at 17:15. When we left camp they had'nt made it to Black Bluff yet at 18:00. They were eastbound, still real slow as Bill had reported earlier. Take Care Troy & Kate
Troy@Bere Point
05 Sep 2007 21:47:17 PDT
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Monday, September 03, 2007
03 September 2007, Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
The A36s, A4s, A5s and the I15s met up the A30s when they entered the strait. All the whales headed east to the Bight, sounds like having nice time in there.
Tomoko
03 Sep 2007 00:46:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We began hearing calls about 5am, & since then have heard the I15s & A36s on the Critical Point hydrophone, so they're in or near Robson Bight . As well, we're hearing the A12s, who are in Blackfish Sound & seem to be heading towards Johnstone Strait. The I15s, A36s & others (A4s, A5s) were headed east in Johnstone Strait by 1am, so it sounds like at least some of these groups are returning to the west now.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 05:59:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s ventured into Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass between 5:45 and 6:15am. There they were greeted by the I15s and the A36s who had come west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. They are still not far from this area and still closer to the Vancouver Island side rather than Cracroft.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 08:13:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s and the A12s are off the entrance to Weynton Pass. They are spread out and foraging. A few are pointing in toward Weynton Pass. meanwhile, the A36s are east of these groups, closer to the entrance of Blackney Pass a short while ago. A small group of transients were spotted travelling west along Cracroft Island from Boat Bay, past the Cliff and off toward the Sophia Islands. Busy, busy, busy.....
Helena
03 Sep 2007 10:00:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The T10s just came into Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait. They dove when opposite the Lab and we lost track of them. Meanwhile, the A12s and I15s have gone through Weynton Pass and are off the western end of Blackfish Sound. We are waiting to find out if the A36s went with them and to see if the calls of the residents will affect the movements of the transients.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 10:56:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're beginning to hear distant "R" clan calls on the Flower Island hydrophone, as they head quickly towards Johnstone Strait from Queen Charlotte Strait. Begind them are some of the I31s. & meeting them are the A36s, I15s & A12s, who turned back to the west in mid Blackfish a short while ago. This is shaping up to be quite a social day!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 12:47:39 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It looks like all of R clan has arrived, along with the I11s, so there are now well over 100 orcas heading towards Johnstone Strait. They are stalled at the north end of Weynton Pass, between Stubbs Island & the Plumpers, probably waiting for the ebbing tide to slow or reverse before they head on into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 14:09:41 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Many but not all of the groups are now in Johnstone Strait, heading east. We're listening to very excited "A" & "G-I" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. It's possible some of the Rs are already in the Strait, but a lot of orcas are still in Weynton Pass, so they probably include most of the Rs. Whichever way you stir it, it's getting to be orca soup in the Strait!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 15:21:48 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the Rs came into the Strait the groups who had preceded became vocal and began to move eastward. We are now listening to the A12s, I11s, A36s, I15s, I31s and Rs. Quite the gang. To the east should still be the A30s, A4sand A5s.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 16:49:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
And they keep on moving. The Rs and some of the A12s are following the others past CP and on toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 17:46:15 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The R clan calls are now louder on Critical Point and, with the calls of the G and A clan groups, a lovely mix is happening.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 18:35:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
And rubbing too!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 18:40:30 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The Rs have joined the I15s and othersat the beaches.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 19:01:59 PDT
No orcas present.
We think the various groups kept heading to the east in Johnstone Strait after their great session(s) at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 22:15:27 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A36s, A4s, A5s and the I15s met up the A30s when they entered the strait. All the whales headed east to the Bight, sounds like having nice time in there.
Tomoko
03 Sep 2007 00:46:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We began hearing calls about 5am, & since then have heard the I15s & A36s on the Critical Point hydrophone, so they're in or near Robson Bight . As well, we're hearing the A12s, who are in Blackfish Sound & seem to be heading towards Johnstone Strait. The I15s, A36s & others (A4s, A5s) were headed east in Johnstone Strait by 1am, so it sounds like at least some of these groups are returning to the west now.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 05:59:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s ventured into Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass between 5:45 and 6:15am. There they were greeted by the I15s and the A36s who had come west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. They are still not far from this area and still closer to the Vancouver Island side rather than Cracroft.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 08:13:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s and the A12s are off the entrance to Weynton Pass. They are spread out and foraging. A few are pointing in toward Weynton Pass. meanwhile, the A36s are east of these groups, closer to the entrance of Blackney Pass a short while ago. A small group of transients were spotted travelling west along Cracroft Island from Boat Bay, past the Cliff and off toward the Sophia Islands. Busy, busy, busy.....
Helena
03 Sep 2007 10:00:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The T10s just came into Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait. They dove when opposite the Lab and we lost track of them. Meanwhile, the A12s and I15s have gone through Weynton Pass and are off the western end of Blackfish Sound. We are waiting to find out if the A36s went with them and to see if the calls of the residents will affect the movements of the transients.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 10:56:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're beginning to hear distant "R" clan calls on the Flower Island hydrophone, as they head quickly towards Johnstone Strait from Queen Charlotte Strait. Begind them are some of the I31s. & meeting them are the A36s, I15s & A12s, who turned back to the west in mid Blackfish a short while ago. This is shaping up to be quite a social day!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 12:47:39 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It looks like all of R clan has arrived, along with the I11s, so there are now well over 100 orcas heading towards Johnstone Strait. They are stalled at the north end of Weynton Pass, between Stubbs Island & the Plumpers, probably waiting for the ebbing tide to slow or reverse before they head on into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 14:09:41 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Many but not all of the groups are now in Johnstone Strait, heading east. We're listening to very excited "A" & "G-I" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. It's possible some of the Rs are already in the Strait, but a lot of orcas are still in Weynton Pass, so they probably include most of the Rs. Whichever way you stir it, it's getting to be orca soup in the Strait!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 15:21:48 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the Rs came into the Strait the groups who had preceded became vocal and began to move eastward. We are now listening to the A12s, I11s, A36s, I15s, I31s and Rs. Quite the gang. To the east should still be the A30s, A4sand A5s.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 16:49:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
And they keep on moving. The Rs and some of the A12s are following the others past CP and on toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 17:46:15 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The R clan calls are now louder on Critical Point and, with the calls of the G and A clan groups, a lovely mix is happening.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 18:35:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
And rubbing too!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 18:40:30 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The Rs have joined the I15s and othersat the beaches.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 19:01:59 PDT
No orcas present.
We think the various groups kept heading to the east in Johnstone Strait after their great session(s) at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 22:15:27 PDT
Saturday, September 01, 2007
01 September 2007, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
The A36s and the I15s are moving quickly to the east in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 01:19:09 PDT
No orcas present.
Good Morning! The A36s and the I15s continued east to the Reserve. They rubbed from 3:02am to 4:16am. They last calls we heard were at 5:02am. Thank you Yumi for staying with that marathon - all yesterday and through the night. There were audible dolphins in the early morning.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 08:13:50 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are very close to Cracroft Point, the A4s sound like they are over closer to Vancouver Island. We have also heard A30s, A36s and A5s.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 10:24:13 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Well the whales went west, and then turned at the top end of Hanson Island, and then they went all the way back, past Critical Point and then down to the rubbing beaches where an A1 group is now rubbing.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 13:59:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth. Since the last poste the whales have turned at least once. At 2:20pm they were all opposite the Cliff moving east. The A30s went down for the rub and 20 minutes later they were all headed back to the west. The progress was not speedy but by 4:40pm the I15s were west of Kaikash, the A24s opposite Kaikash, the rest of the A4s and A5s were going alobg the Hanson shore and the A30s up to the western boundary. Whew!
Helena
01 Sep 2007 17:54:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
For the last while the whales, true to form, are now going east again.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 19:06:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s peeled away and came north through Blackney Pass just before dark. The others are nearing Robson Bight.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 20:51:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The eastbound groups, the I15s,the A36s, A5s and A4s are on their way out of the Reserve. Nothing further was heard from the A30s who continued west to Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 22:36:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s and the I15s are moving quickly to the east in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 01:19:09 PDT
No orcas present.
Good Morning! The A36s and the I15s continued east to the Reserve. They rubbed from 3:02am to 4:16am. They last calls we heard were at 5:02am. Thank you Yumi for staying with that marathon - all yesterday and through the night. There were audible dolphins in the early morning.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 08:13:50 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are very close to Cracroft Point, the A4s sound like they are over closer to Vancouver Island. We have also heard A30s, A36s and A5s.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 10:24:13 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Well the whales went west, and then turned at the top end of Hanson Island, and then they went all the way back, past Critical Point and then down to the rubbing beaches where an A1 group is now rubbing.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 13:59:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth. Since the last poste the whales have turned at least once. At 2:20pm they were all opposite the Cliff moving east. The A30s went down for the rub and 20 minutes later they were all headed back to the west. The progress was not speedy but by 4:40pm the I15s were west of Kaikash, the A24s opposite Kaikash, the rest of the A4s and A5s were going alobg the Hanson shore and the A30s up to the western boundary. Whew!
Helena
01 Sep 2007 17:54:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
For the last while the whales, true to form, are now going east again.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 19:06:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s peeled away and came north through Blackney Pass just before dark. The others are nearing Robson Bight.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 20:51:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The eastbound groups, the I15s,the A36s, A5s and A4s are on their way out of the Reserve. Nothing further was heard from the A30s who continued west to Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 22:36:41 PDT
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
30 August 2007, Orcalab reports
No orcas present.
Good morning. We've heard no calls since just after midnight, when we think the A30s were passing the rubbing beaches, heading east. This means that all the A, G, & R clan groups here yesterday are probably still somewhere to the east of us.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 05:50:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are now close to the CrPt hydrophone. We're also hearing distant "A" calls.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 07:58:05 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The orcas, the I31s, I15s, A30s and A36s are moving westward through a maze of 300 dolphins ,who are spread out from CP to the Reserve and across the Strait. You can hear the dolphins in behind the orca calls. Most of the whales are coming up to the CP area but there are at least two lingering groups, one off Izumi and one off the rubbing beaches. Are the rest of yesterday's groups coming up from "below"?
Helena
30 Aug 2007 09:37:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Interesting day - aren't they all? The A36s, I15s and I31s may be thinking about catching the ebb through Weynton Pass. This decision happened after a few calls from the A36s. The A30s are still in the Strait probably in seperate groupings. A38/39 are closer to the BIght.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 10:54:02 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are certainly holding down the middle. The A36s, I15s and I31s did go out Weynton and the A30s moved toward the CP area just ahead of the Rs coming up from the east along the Vancouver Island shore. Nick Templeman reports that at 11am the A12s, A4s and A5s were also westbound (isn't everyone?) off Kelsey Bay.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 11:42:59 PDT
Orcas near mics.
As the A30s head back eastward (past Kaikash), the Rs (R5s,R17s,R2s and possibly R7s) are carrying on to the west through Pearse Passage. The others, the A36s, I15s and I31s are still westbound in Queen Charlotte Strait. The tide however, is in full flood and it is a big one. Only the A30s are going with the tide.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 15:01:59 PDT
No orcas present.
Good morning. We've heard no calls since just after midnight, when we think the A30s were passing the rubbing beaches, heading east. This means that all the A, G, & R clan groups here yesterday are probably still somewhere to the east of us.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 05:50:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are now close to the CrPt hydrophone. We're also hearing distant "A" calls.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 07:58:05 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The orcas, the I31s, I15s, A30s and A36s are moving westward through a maze of 300 dolphins ,who are spread out from CP to the Reserve and across the Strait. You can hear the dolphins in behind the orca calls. Most of the whales are coming up to the CP area but there are at least two lingering groups, one off Izumi and one off the rubbing beaches. Are the rest of yesterday's groups coming up from "below"?
Helena
30 Aug 2007 09:37:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Interesting day - aren't they all? The A36s, I15s and I31s may be thinking about catching the ebb through Weynton Pass. This decision happened after a few calls from the A36s. The A30s are still in the Strait probably in seperate groupings. A38/39 are closer to the BIght.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 10:54:02 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are certainly holding down the middle. The A36s, I15s and I31s did go out Weynton and the A30s moved toward the CP area just ahead of the Rs coming up from the east along the Vancouver Island shore. Nick Templeman reports that at 11am the A12s, A4s and A5s were also westbound (isn't everyone?) off Kelsey Bay.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 11:42:59 PDT
Orcas near mics.
As the A30s head back eastward (past Kaikash), the Rs (R5s,R17s,R2s and possibly R7s) are carrying on to the west through Pearse Passage. The others, the A36s, I15s and I31s are still westbound in Queen Charlotte Strait. The tide however, is in full flood and it is a big one. Only the A30s are going with the tide.
Helena
30 Aug 2007 15:01:59 PDT
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
29 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I31s are back from the east, now off CP.
Tomoko
29 Aug 2007 03:43:24 PDT
Superb sounds!!
and the I15s are there too.
Tomoko
29 Aug 2007 04:23:08 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're listening to the A30s, I15s, & at least some of the I31s as they head north through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Earlier, just before midnight, we began hearing them as they returned from the east. Their westward progress was slow as they made their way to the west, and they are still traveling slowly, against the last of the flooding tide. The A30s are ahead, now in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 05:18:38 PDT
Boat noise
The I15s,A30s and I31 have moved on from Blackfish Sound to the west. The tide is against them (since 5am) and their exit was slow.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 07:01:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We've begun hearing distant "R" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. The R5s & R17s have just entered Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. Behind them, still in Weynton Pass, are the I15s, A30s & possibly others. Earlier, around 10:30am, the various groups met up with each other on the north side of Malcolm Island. They've been traveling together towards Johnstone Strait since then. Sounds like a busy day ahead!
Helena
29 Aug 2007 13:43:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The lovely R5s,R17s R2s and perhaps the R7s once again have returned after being met in Queen Charlotte Strait by the A30s, I15s and I31s. Together, as reported, they all went through Weynton Pass while a very large group of dolphins, who had also come out of Queen Charlotte Strait, zipped into Blackney Pass. The orca groups are now well into Johnstone Strait, passing CP.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 14:57:07 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The Rs went east quickly, barely touching in at the main rubbing beach as they continued on. The I31s (all), the I15s and the A30s took a while longer to get to the Bight. The I31s have moved on eastward, the I15s are following and the A30s are still off the Bight after pausing off CP earlier. We had a very large group of dolphins in Blackney Pass obviously foraging. Exciting BUT the behaviour of several boats around the excitable dolphins was disappointing and just darn right rude at times. Just now, a rub hasstarted.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 17:39:44 PDT
Distant calls audible.
It sounds like the A30s have moved back to the west, as we're hearing their calls on the Cracroft Point hydrophone. We don't know where the other groups are, but they probably continued to the east after their late afternoon session at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 21:21:46 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I31s are back from the east, now off CP.
Tomoko
29 Aug 2007 03:43:24 PDT
Superb sounds!!
and the I15s are there too.
Tomoko
29 Aug 2007 04:23:08 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're listening to the A30s, I15s, & at least some of the I31s as they head north through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Earlier, just before midnight, we began hearing them as they returned from the east. Their westward progress was slow as they made their way to the west, and they are still traveling slowly, against the last of the flooding tide. The A30s are ahead, now in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 05:18:38 PDT
Boat noise
The I15s,A30s and I31 have moved on from Blackfish Sound to the west. The tide is against them (since 5am) and their exit was slow.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 07:01:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We've begun hearing distant "R" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. The R5s & R17s have just entered Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. Behind them, still in Weynton Pass, are the I15s, A30s & possibly others. Earlier, around 10:30am, the various groups met up with each other on the north side of Malcolm Island. They've been traveling together towards Johnstone Strait since then. Sounds like a busy day ahead!
Helena
29 Aug 2007 13:43:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The lovely R5s,R17s R2s and perhaps the R7s once again have returned after being met in Queen Charlotte Strait by the A30s, I15s and I31s. Together, as reported, they all went through Weynton Pass while a very large group of dolphins, who had also come out of Queen Charlotte Strait, zipped into Blackney Pass. The orca groups are now well into Johnstone Strait, passing CP.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 14:57:07 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The Rs went east quickly, barely touching in at the main rubbing beach as they continued on. The I31s (all), the I15s and the A30s took a while longer to get to the Bight. The I31s have moved on eastward, the I15s are following and the A30s are still off the Bight after pausing off CP earlier. We had a very large group of dolphins in Blackney Pass obviously foraging. Exciting BUT the behaviour of several boats around the excitable dolphins was disappointing and just darn right rude at times. Just now, a rub hasstarted.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 17:39:44 PDT
Distant calls audible.
It sounds like the A30s have moved back to the west, as we're hearing their calls on the Cracroft Point hydrophone. We don't know where the other groups are, but they probably continued to the east after their late afternoon session at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
29 Aug 2007 21:21:46 PDT
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
28 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
Add I15, A1 and A4 calls to the list of whales up to Robson Bight.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:08:02 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It is really sounding like the whole gang is back, A30s, A36s, A12s, A4s,A5s,I15s, and I33s. Still moving west.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:54:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Actually these groups are spread from Telegraph Cove back to west of the Reserve.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:59:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
I should mention that the A36s are at the western end of Blackfish and so far today the I35s have been seen in the groups furthest west (I15s are included in this group.)
Helena
28 Aug 2007 13:10:59 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The whales are not far off the entrance to Blackney Pass and CP area. Recently, A4s were the loudest. It is only 1/2 hour to the slack tide and then the tide will ebb. Will this be enough to encourage them all out via Blackney? Or will the stay Strait sid?
Helena
28 Aug 2007 17:04:14 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Definitely stayed Strait side.The calls were distant for so long we began to wonder if they were headed back to the west. Fortunately, calls got louder and we now believe the whales (the A12s,A30s,A4s.A5s,I15s,A36s have been heard) are headed to the Robson Bight area.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 18:43:10 PDT
No orcas present.
And east they all went! - some 12 hours after arriving back from the east this morning.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 21:48:05 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Add I15, A1 and A4 calls to the list of whales up to Robson Bight.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:08:02 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It is really sounding like the whole gang is back, A30s, A36s, A12s, A4s,A5s,I15s, and I33s. Still moving west.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:54:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Actually these groups are spread from Telegraph Cove back to west of the Reserve.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 12:59:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
I should mention that the A36s are at the western end of Blackfish and so far today the I35s have been seen in the groups furthest west (I15s are included in this group.)
Helena
28 Aug 2007 13:10:59 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The whales are not far off the entrance to Blackney Pass and CP area. Recently, A4s were the loudest. It is only 1/2 hour to the slack tide and then the tide will ebb. Will this be enough to encourage them all out via Blackney? Or will the stay Strait sid?
Helena
28 Aug 2007 17:04:14 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Definitely stayed Strait side.The calls were distant for so long we began to wonder if they were headed back to the west. Fortunately, calls got louder and we now believe the whales (the A12s,A30s,A4s.A5s,I15s,A36s have been heard) are headed to the Robson Bight area.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 18:43:10 PDT
No orcas present.
And east they all went! - some 12 hours after arriving back from the east this morning.
Helena
28 Aug 2007 21:48:05 PDT
Monday, August 27, 2007
27 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
We heard no calls overnight & think the various groups of orcas in the Strait yesterday are probably somewhere to the east of us (though we're not sure).
Helena
27 Aug 2007 07:17:01 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A radio report of a small group of orcas heading west off Naka Creek about 40' ago suggests that at least one of the groups that has been in the east is returning to our area. We are listening.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 10:39:35 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We're listening to close calls from the I31s, I15s & A12s as they arrive in Robson Bight on their way to the west. A short while ago some of them went into the Main rubbing beach briefly.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 12:38:59 PDT
Orcas near mics.
An A5 group is passing CP, following after the I31s, A12s. The I15s and A36s are further away but also moving westward.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 14:19:29 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Since the last post: We think now that the I15s left via Weynton Pass at the time all the groups were opposite Telegraph Cove around 5pm. The I33s, A36s, A12s and A5s all then went back to the east. The A36s stalled off of the entrance of Blackney and eventually came north through the Pass. They were moving very quickly. The rest continued eastward and are now off Robson Bight.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 21:10:08 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Hmm... Just when we thought the whales were staging, getting ready to go past Critical Point, they stayed put. AND then the I15s turned up again so perhaps it was all about waiting for the I15s to catch up. Probably they didn't go out afterall. Will they go east now?
Helena
27 Aug 2007 21:55:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sounds like they may be going to the east afterall.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 22:27:55 PDT
No orcas present.
We heard no calls overnight & think the various groups of orcas in the Strait yesterday are probably somewhere to the east of us (though we're not sure).
Helena
27 Aug 2007 07:17:01 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A radio report of a small group of orcas heading west off Naka Creek about 40' ago suggests that at least one of the groups that has been in the east is returning to our area. We are listening.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 10:39:35 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We're listening to close calls from the I31s, I15s & A12s as they arrive in Robson Bight on their way to the west. A short while ago some of them went into the Main rubbing beach briefly.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 12:38:59 PDT
Orcas near mics.
An A5 group is passing CP, following after the I31s, A12s. The I15s and A36s are further away but also moving westward.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 14:19:29 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Since the last post: We think now that the I15s left via Weynton Pass at the time all the groups were opposite Telegraph Cove around 5pm. The I33s, A36s, A12s and A5s all then went back to the east. The A36s stalled off of the entrance of Blackney and eventually came north through the Pass. They were moving very quickly. The rest continued eastward and are now off Robson Bight.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 21:10:08 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Hmm... Just when we thought the whales were staging, getting ready to go past Critical Point, they stayed put. AND then the I15s turned up again so perhaps it was all about waiting for the I15s to catch up. Probably they didn't go out afterall. Will they go east now?
Helena
27 Aug 2007 21:55:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Sounds like they may be going to the east afterall.
Helena
27 Aug 2007 22:27:55 PDT
Sunday, August 26, 2007
26 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
The I15s are also out there (east of CP, Johnstone Strait) with the I31s.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 12:28:48 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
CP reports that the I15s have passed them and are between the bottom end (east) of Hanson Island and Big Bay. They passed fairly close to Cracroft, about 1/4 off. The I65s were first, followed by the I16s who were travelling with A37, and then the I27s. Just now, A11 passed with I33 and I110 very close to the camp. The males were offshore at about 5oom. More whales can be seen headed toward CP from the east.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 16:25:22 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Whales are eastbound once again, headed back to the Bight area.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 20:27:23 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We've been listening to a wonderful chorus of A & G clan calls in Robson Bight, near Critical Point. Unfortunately, boat noise is intruding & getting louder.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 21:11:32 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s & others have reached the rubbing beaches.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 21:57:01 PDT
No orcas present.
We think the various groups are probably on their way to the east in Jonstone Strait. We are waiting (sleeping).
Helena
26 Aug 2007 22:33:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're stil hearing faint calls on the Critical Point hdrophone, so not all the orcas have headed east (yet).
Helena
26 Aug 2007 22:55:01 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The I15s are also out there (east of CP, Johnstone Strait) with the I31s.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 12:28:48 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
CP reports that the I15s have passed them and are between the bottom end (east) of Hanson Island and Big Bay. They passed fairly close to Cracroft, about 1/4 off. The I65s were first, followed by the I16s who were travelling with A37, and then the I27s. Just now, A11 passed with I33 and I110 very close to the camp. The males were offshore at about 5oom. More whales can be seen headed toward CP from the east.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 16:25:22 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Whales are eastbound once again, headed back to the Bight area.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 20:27:23 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We've been listening to a wonderful chorus of A & G clan calls in Robson Bight, near Critical Point. Unfortunately, boat noise is intruding & getting louder.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 21:11:32 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s & others have reached the rubbing beaches.
Helena
26 Aug 2007 21:57:01 PDT
No orcas present.
We think the various groups are probably on their way to the east in Jonstone Strait. We are waiting (sleeping).
Helena
26 Aug 2007 22:33:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're stil hearing faint calls on the Critical Point hdrophone, so not all the orcas have headed east (yet).
Helena
26 Aug 2007 22:55:01 PDT
Saturday, August 25, 2007
25 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Orcas near mics.
We began hearing the I15s & I31s close to the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. Sounds like they're returning from their trip to the east yestertday afternoon.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 06:49:10 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I15s and the I31s most likely left Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. The A30s most likely did not accompany them that far but returned to the Robson Bight area. They may be the group that has been sighted near Izumi Rock westbound. The description fits although we have not had any call that might confirm this information.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 12:14:02 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're listening to the A30s as they approach Robson Bight. The A36s are in the far distance, traveling with several G clan groups (I15s, I31s, maybe others) who came into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass around 2:30pm & are now headed east.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 16:13:32 PDT
Boat noise
After a rub, the A30s are on the way back to the west again. We're hearing them on the Critical Point hydrophone, unfortunately with lots of boat noise. The other groups are still eastbound on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, now past Kaikash.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 18:13:52 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We've been listening to the I15s & I31s close to Critical Point, with an A1 group also nearby (probably the A36s). Meanwhile, the A30s have gone back to the beaches for another rub.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 19:16:21 PDT
Boat noise
Back to boat noise. We think all the orcas have headed east, out of the range of our hydrophones. We are waiting.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 21:10:23 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We began hearing the I15s & I31s close to the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. Sounds like they're returning from their trip to the east yestertday afternoon.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 06:49:10 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I15s and the I31s most likely left Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. The A30s most likely did not accompany them that far but returned to the Robson Bight area. They may be the group that has been sighted near Izumi Rock westbound. The description fits although we have not had any call that might confirm this information.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 12:14:02 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're listening to the A30s as they approach Robson Bight. The A36s are in the far distance, traveling with several G clan groups (I15s, I31s, maybe others) who came into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass around 2:30pm & are now headed east.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 16:13:32 PDT
Boat noise
After a rub, the A30s are on the way back to the west again. We're hearing them on the Critical Point hydrophone, unfortunately with lots of boat noise. The other groups are still eastbound on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, now past Kaikash.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 18:13:52 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We've been listening to the I15s & I31s close to Critical Point, with an A1 group also nearby (probably the A36s). Meanwhile, the A30s have gone back to the beaches for another rub.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 19:16:21 PDT
Boat noise
Back to boat noise. We think all the orcas have headed east, out of the range of our hydrophones. We are waiting.
Helena
25 Aug 2007 21:10:23 PDT
Friday, August 24, 2007
24 August, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
This is shaping up to be a very interesting morning. The groups in the Strait, the A36s, I15s, I33s have moved into the entrance to Blackney Pass while part of the R7s and R2s and the A24s finished travelling south through Blackney Pass and "met" up with them. A52 and her calf are aslso just about through Blackney Pass while a larger group, the rest of the Rs, A4s and A30s are still in Blackfish Sound. The tide is turning to flood.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 08:48:12 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Crazy busy. After the meeting off the entrance to Blackney Pass the A36s came into Blackney Pass and headed north. A52 and her calf followed part way through the Pass but turned south again after getting half way. As the a36s disappeared into Blackfish a mixed group with A73, R13 and her calf, the rest of the A35s and A56 travelled south through Blackney. Eventually, A13 and A11 followed. We can still hear the A30s and the A36s on Flower Island occassionally. The I15s,A5s, I33s, A24s and the R2s and R7 all went back to the east afte their meeting off of the Blackney entrance.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 10:12:30 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We've been listening to the I15s & A4s at the rubbing beaches for the past while. Meanwhile, the A30s have moved to the north of Blackfish Sound & the A36s are following behind.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 12:22:37 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
This is shaping up to be a very interesting morning. The groups in the Strait, the A36s, I15s, I33s have moved into the entrance to Blackney Pass while part of the R7s and R2s and the A24s finished travelling south through Blackney Pass and "met" up with them. A52 and her calf are aslso just about through Blackney Pass while a larger group, the rest of the Rs, A4s and A30s are still in Blackfish Sound. The tide is turning to flood.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 08:48:12 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Crazy busy. After the meeting off the entrance to Blackney Pass the A36s came into Blackney Pass and headed north. A52 and her calf followed part way through the Pass but turned south again after getting half way. As the a36s disappeared into Blackfish a mixed group with A73, R13 and her calf, the rest of the A35s and A56 travelled south through Blackney. Eventually, A13 and A11 followed. We can still hear the A30s and the A36s on Flower Island occassionally. The I15s,A5s, I33s, A24s and the R2s and R7 all went back to the east afte their meeting off of the Blackney entrance.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 10:12:30 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We've been listening to the I15s & A4s at the rubbing beaches for the past while. Meanwhile, the A30s have moved to the north of Blackfish Sound & the A36s are following behind.
Helena
24 Aug 2007 12:22:37 PDT
Thursday, August 23, 2007
23 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
All the groups headed north through Blackney Pass a short while ago. We're hearing occasional distant calls from some of them on the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 02:02:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're still hearing most of the groups calling occasionaly on the Flower Island Hydrophone, so they are still in or near Blackfish Sound.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 04:29:23 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since just before 5am & think that the various A & G clan groups we were listening to in Backfish Sound earlier this morning have (probably) moved on to the north. We are waiting.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 07:09:43 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
There are three threads we are following this morning. First, a group of transients showed up this morning in Blackfish Sound and continued west into Queen Charlotte Strait. Second, we heard A5 calls back in Johnstone Strait fairly close to Critical Point. This group went off to the beaches. There may be another group on the Cracroft side. Third, the majority of the group that went out this morning at 5am is off Malcolm Point in Queen Charlotte Strait. They were still going west when fisrt seen this morning but have since turned around and are moving back to the east.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 11:35:01 PDT
No orcas present.
Nice to be in the middle again. The A5s continued east this afternoon and no word, as of now, that they have turned. The BIG group in Queen Charlotte Strait is still eastbound but very slowly and are currently in the area east of Black Bluff
Helena
23 Aug 2007 15:46:52 PDT
Boat noise
The A5s are back and heading west along Cracroft Island opposite Robson Bight. The I15s, I33s, A30s and possibly the A24s are off Lizard Point slowly eastbound and closer to Port Hardy, the R2s & R7s have been picked up by the A11s. They have stalled there for the moment.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 17:10:38 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We've been listening to the I15s & I33s, along with the A36s, as they make their way towards Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. Meanwhile, the A5s are in Robson Bight, near Critical Point, grabbing a bite (we're hearing constant echolocation from them on the CrPt hydrophone).
Helena
23 Aug 2007 20:38:21 PDT
Boat noise
Once they got into the Strait, the arriving orcas were immersed in persistent boat noise. The I15s, I33s & A36s are headed east towards Robson Bight & the A5s have passed beyond Critical Point, also eastbound.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 22:30:52 PDT
No orcas present.
For the moment at least, it looks like the A5s, I15s, I33s & A36s are all headed east. The last calls we heard were from the I15s about half an hour ago, when they touched into the rubbing beaches briefly.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 23:38:19 PDT
Distant calls audible.
All the groups headed north through Blackney Pass a short while ago. We're hearing occasional distant calls from some of them on the Flower Island hydrophone.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 02:02:01 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're still hearing most of the groups calling occasionaly on the Flower Island Hydrophone, so they are still in or near Blackfish Sound.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 04:29:23 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since just before 5am & think that the various A & G clan groups we were listening to in Backfish Sound earlier this morning have (probably) moved on to the north. We are waiting.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 07:09:43 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
There are three threads we are following this morning. First, a group of transients showed up this morning in Blackfish Sound and continued west into Queen Charlotte Strait. Second, we heard A5 calls back in Johnstone Strait fairly close to Critical Point. This group went off to the beaches. There may be another group on the Cracroft side. Third, the majority of the group that went out this morning at 5am is off Malcolm Point in Queen Charlotte Strait. They were still going west when fisrt seen this morning but have since turned around and are moving back to the east.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 11:35:01 PDT
No orcas present.
Nice to be in the middle again. The A5s continued east this afternoon and no word, as of now, that they have turned. The BIG group in Queen Charlotte Strait is still eastbound but very slowly and are currently in the area east of Black Bluff
Helena
23 Aug 2007 15:46:52 PDT
Boat noise
The A5s are back and heading west along Cracroft Island opposite Robson Bight. The I15s, I33s, A30s and possibly the A24s are off Lizard Point slowly eastbound and closer to Port Hardy, the R2s & R7s have been picked up by the A11s. They have stalled there for the moment.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 17:10:38 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We've been listening to the I15s & I33s, along with the A36s, as they make their way towards Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. Meanwhile, the A5s are in Robson Bight, near Critical Point, grabbing a bite (we're hearing constant echolocation from them on the CrPt hydrophone).
Helena
23 Aug 2007 20:38:21 PDT
Boat noise
Once they got into the Strait, the arriving orcas were immersed in persistent boat noise. The I15s, I33s & A36s are headed east towards Robson Bight & the A5s have passed beyond Critical Point, also eastbound.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 22:30:52 PDT
No orcas present.
For the moment at least, it looks like the A5s, I15s, I33s & A36s are all headed east. The last calls we heard were from the I15s about half an hour ago, when they touched into the rubbing beaches briefly.
Helena
23 Aug 2007 23:38:19 PDT
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
22 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
We began hearing distant G clan calls on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. We're not yet sure which group, or where they are. Hopefully, the A30s have continued to the east.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 00:43:18 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The calls are closer to the Critical Point hydrphone now. Sounds like both A & G clan orcas are there, probably the I15s, I33s & A30s. The danger probably isn't as great as it was last night, but we'd still rather the whales were elsewhere.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 00:51:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
It sounds like the A5s & A4s are in Robson Bight as well as the A30s, I15s & I33s. Quite a party, just wish it was happening elsewhere.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 02:39:24 PDT
Boat noise
Sigh. A very beautiful morning with low fog and calm seas. Earlier this morning, the A4s and A5s joined the I15s, I33s and the A30s, before 1am, in the area off Robson Bight. The whales stalled until about 3:15am when their calls grew quickly fainter. They may have shifted toward the Cracroft Island shore before moving back eastward in the short term. Calls ended by 4:30am.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 06:34:54 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It is starting to sound like everyone is beginning to file back from the east.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 09:33:09 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The various groups have all turned (I15s off CP, others off Big Bay) and are headed back to the east again.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 10:58:10 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
As the "groups" (the A30s, A4s, A5s, I15s, I33s, A12s) continued eastward in Johnstone Strait we began to hear not only the A36s in Blackfish Sound BUT also R clan calls! Never rains but pours.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 19:28:39 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We began hearing distant G clan calls on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. We're not yet sure which group, or where they are. Hopefully, the A30s have continued to the east.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 00:43:18 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The calls are closer to the Critical Point hydrphone now. Sounds like both A & G clan orcas are there, probably the I15s, I33s & A30s. The danger probably isn't as great as it was last night, but we'd still rather the whales were elsewhere.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 00:51:17 PDT
Superb sounds!!
It sounds like the A5s & A4s are in Robson Bight as well as the A30s, I15s & I33s. Quite a party, just wish it was happening elsewhere.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 02:39:24 PDT
Boat noise
Sigh. A very beautiful morning with low fog and calm seas. Earlier this morning, the A4s and A5s joined the I15s, I33s and the A30s, before 1am, in the area off Robson Bight. The whales stalled until about 3:15am when their calls grew quickly fainter. They may have shifted toward the Cracroft Island shore before moving back eastward in the short term. Calls ended by 4:30am.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 06:34:54 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It is starting to sound like everyone is beginning to file back from the east.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 09:33:09 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The various groups have all turned (I15s off CP, others off Big Bay) and are headed back to the east again.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 10:58:10 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
As the "groups" (the A30s, A4s, A5s, I15s, I33s, A12s) continued eastward in Johnstone Strait we began to hear not only the A36s in Blackfish Sound BUT also R clan calls! Never rains but pours.
Helena
22 Aug 2007 19:28:39 PDT
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
21 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are opposite CP and moving on toward the entrance to Blackney Pass. The I33s are nearby. The other groups, the A4s and A5s seem like they are further offshore of Cracroft, passing the entrance to Blackney Pass. The A30s are not far ahead.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 00:18:49 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After getting to the entrance of Blackney, and after a few (perhaps some of the I15s) even ventured in to the Pass, the groups have turned around and are now re-approaching the Reserve.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 01:14:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A4s, A5s, I33s, I15s and the A30s seem to have moved eastward from Robson Bight since 3am. We are hearing a few distant calls on the rubbing beach system.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 03:32:58 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since around 3:30am & think the various groups continued to the east. We won't mind at all if they stay there for a while!
Helena
21 Aug 2007 07:57:21 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I33s and most likely soon the I15s have arrived back in the area adjacent to the Ecological Reserve. The A30s turned when between Little Kaikash and Blinkhorn and are headed to the entrance of Blackney Pass where they have stopped to forage. A bit of a surprise, the A12s are reported to be east bound at Camp Point (as of 12pm) travelling with the A35s and the A24s. Other groups were also headed east headed toward Camp Point. This means that the A12s got back to the Strait sometime last night, possibly when the other groups were so excited when off the entrance of Blackney Pass. We never heard A12 calls so their entrance was a quiet one.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 12:50:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
As the I33s and the I15s continue west from the Sophia Islands, the A30s have slipped through Blackney Pass headed for Blackfish Sound.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 13:30:37 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I15s and the I33s crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass and are continuing west along the Hanson Island shore. Part of the slick has touched shore along the Johnstone Strait side of Hanson Island and these two groups just swam through a lot of it. Further east, headed for Chatham Point, are the surprising A12s, A4s (all) & A5s (all). The sun is out now and although the last of the afternoon burst, the temperature on the water will apparently help evaporate some of the spilled fuel. Fingers still crossed.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 14:41:11 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s are at the rubbing beaches and the I33s are probably not far behind. We are also, and have been hearing A1 calls in Johnstone Strait. This was occuring while the A30s were in Blackfish Sound. With the A12s reported to the far east we are left wondering what is happening. Stay tuned, hopefully it will become clearer.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 18:42:45 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are travelling back toward Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. The I15s and ? the I33s continued east from the beaches.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 19:55:32 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are opposite CP and moving on toward the entrance to Blackney Pass. The I33s are nearby. The other groups, the A4s and A5s seem like they are further offshore of Cracroft, passing the entrance to Blackney Pass. The A30s are not far ahead.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 00:18:49 PDT
Orcas near mics.
After getting to the entrance of Blackney, and after a few (perhaps some of the I15s) even ventured in to the Pass, the groups have turned around and are now re-approaching the Reserve.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 01:14:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A4s, A5s, I33s, I15s and the A30s seem to have moved eastward from Robson Bight since 3am. We are hearing a few distant calls on the rubbing beach system.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 03:32:58 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since around 3:30am & think the various groups continued to the east. We won't mind at all if they stay there for a while!
Helena
21 Aug 2007 07:57:21 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I33s and most likely soon the I15s have arrived back in the area adjacent to the Ecological Reserve. The A30s turned when between Little Kaikash and Blinkhorn and are headed to the entrance of Blackney Pass where they have stopped to forage. A bit of a surprise, the A12s are reported to be east bound at Camp Point (as of 12pm) travelling with the A35s and the A24s. Other groups were also headed east headed toward Camp Point. This means that the A12s got back to the Strait sometime last night, possibly when the other groups were so excited when off the entrance of Blackney Pass. We never heard A12 calls so their entrance was a quiet one.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 12:50:12 PDT
Distant calls audible.
As the I33s and the I15s continue west from the Sophia Islands, the A30s have slipped through Blackney Pass headed for Blackfish Sound.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 13:30:37 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I15s and the I33s crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass and are continuing west along the Hanson Island shore. Part of the slick has touched shore along the Johnstone Strait side of Hanson Island and these two groups just swam through a lot of it. Further east, headed for Chatham Point, are the surprising A12s, A4s (all) & A5s (all). The sun is out now and although the last of the afternoon burst, the temperature on the water will apparently help evaporate some of the spilled fuel. Fingers still crossed.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 14:41:11 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The I15s are at the rubbing beaches and the I33s are probably not far behind. We are also, and have been hearing A1 calls in Johnstone Strait. This was occuring while the A30s were in Blackfish Sound. With the A12s reported to the far east we are left wondering what is happening. Stay tuned, hopefully it will become clearer.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 18:42:45 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are travelling back toward Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass. The I15s and ? the I33s continued east from the beaches.
Helena
21 Aug 2007 19:55:32 PDT
Monday, August 20, 2007
20 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
A30s are very vocal, they are in the bight, sounds very excited for something! The I15s are off BP. We haven't heard I33s for a while but maybe they are with the I15s.
Tomoko
20 Aug 2007 00:53:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s (and maybe I33s) went north through Blackney Pass. When they got into Blackfish sound, we heard A1 calls with them. Did the A12s come down to pick them up? The A30s are still somewhere near the bight.
Tomoko
20 Aug 2007 02:46:57 PDT
No orcas present.
It was a busy night! After the I15s,A30s, and I33s arrived in Robson Bight and did all that beautiful calling, they stalled off the Ecological Reserve for a while. In the end, the I15s and the I33s peeled away from the A30s and headed to the entrance of Blackney Pass around 12:30am. The I15s and the I33s travelled through Blackney Pass to the north, (they cleared Blackney Pass by 1:30am) leaving the A30s heading further east in the Strait. The last I15/I33 in Blackfish Sound calls were at 2:07am. We also heard a few distant surprise A1 calls in Blackfish Sound. There had beena few A12 like calls in the Strait earlier and we will review these and the A1 calls in Blackfish Sound to see if any of the A12s came back "up" the Strait and out with the I15s/I33s. If so, perhaps that was what all the waiitng off the Reserve was about between 12 and 1 am. The last A30 calls were at 3:13am.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 07:32:58 PDT
No orcas present.
An added note: Apparently the A36s were closer yesterday than we thought. The MacKays report that they were off the Foster Islands (Queen Charlotte Strait) by 3pm. Perhaps, they were who we heard distantly in Blackfish Sound when the I15s and I33 went through at 2am? Nice thought.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 07:50:52 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After a radio report of a group of 15 plus just entering Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass we began to hear, through the horrific boat noise, a few distant I15 calls. They may still have the I33s with them. We may also be hearing As.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 09:00:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Busy, reports are coming in that there are westbound whales as well as the groups returning and heading east. Possibly, the various A groups (some or even all?) have come up from the east. The scene will get a bit clearer in a while when there is visual information. We are hampered by the constant boat noise. We are hearing As as well as the G clan calls. Exciting!
Helena
20 Aug 2007 09:10:55 PDT
Orcas near mics.
A lot has been happening. The A12s came up from the east, met up with the I15s off of CP, turned and went back toward Vancouver Island BUT then the A12s pulled away and headed off to the west along Hanson Island. The I15s and the I33s continued toward Robson Bight.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 11:45:17 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
At 11:50am a barge loaded with equipment tipped over in Robson Bight spilling its load of equipment into the water near Critical Point. The authorities are on scene assessing the damage. The I15s and the I33s were close when this happened. They grouped up and headed off to the east. We have heard some of their calls (and recently rubs) on the rubbing beach system since. The A12s, at about 12:20pm, turned around off Turn Point and are now eastbound off Hanson Island.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 12:51:40 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A12s just travelled north through Blackney Pass into Blackfish Sound. They have just become vocal. The I15s and the I33s continued east.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 14:48:21 PDT
No orcas present.
This is one time I am happy to report that there are no whales calling. The A12s,as far as we know continued west and the I15s and the I33s continued east. There are a lot of whales in the general area and this has to be a concern. The oil slick is growing and the news so far is very troublesome. We will try to keep you updated as information comes in.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 17:11:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing A4 calls off the main rubbing beach. They must be following the A30s west.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:06:43 PDT
Distant calls audible.
And now the A5s!
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:16:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
And then the I15s and probably the I33s.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:32:10 PDT
Superb sounds!!
As this worrisome parade continues we would like to thank the Wardens, the Cliff volunteers, for their constant concern and efforts throughout the day.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:42:07 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s continue to lead the other groups to the west. We have been able to hear them approach the area in range of CP and the entrance to Blackney Pass for the last while. The others are spread "back" to the Reserve.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 23:29:16 PDT
Superb sounds!!
A30s are very vocal, they are in the bight, sounds very excited for something! The I15s are off BP. We haven't heard I33s for a while but maybe they are with the I15s.
Tomoko
20 Aug 2007 00:53:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s (and maybe I33s) went north through Blackney Pass. When they got into Blackfish sound, we heard A1 calls with them. Did the A12s come down to pick them up? The A30s are still somewhere near the bight.
Tomoko
20 Aug 2007 02:46:57 PDT
No orcas present.
It was a busy night! After the I15s,A30s, and I33s arrived in Robson Bight and did all that beautiful calling, they stalled off the Ecological Reserve for a while. In the end, the I15s and the I33s peeled away from the A30s and headed to the entrance of Blackney Pass around 12:30am. The I15s and the I33s travelled through Blackney Pass to the north, (they cleared Blackney Pass by 1:30am) leaving the A30s heading further east in the Strait. The last I15/I33 in Blackfish Sound calls were at 2:07am. We also heard a few distant surprise A1 calls in Blackfish Sound. There had beena few A12 like calls in the Strait earlier and we will review these and the A1 calls in Blackfish Sound to see if any of the A12s came back "up" the Strait and out with the I15s/I33s. If so, perhaps that was what all the waiitng off the Reserve was about between 12 and 1 am. The last A30 calls were at 3:13am.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 07:32:58 PDT
No orcas present.
An added note: Apparently the A36s were closer yesterday than we thought. The MacKays report that they were off the Foster Islands (Queen Charlotte Strait) by 3pm. Perhaps, they were who we heard distantly in Blackfish Sound when the I15s and I33 went through at 2am? Nice thought.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 07:50:52 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After a radio report of a group of 15 plus just entering Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass we began to hear, through the horrific boat noise, a few distant I15 calls. They may still have the I33s with them. We may also be hearing As.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 09:00:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Busy, reports are coming in that there are westbound whales as well as the groups returning and heading east. Possibly, the various A groups (some or even all?) have come up from the east. The scene will get a bit clearer in a while when there is visual information. We are hampered by the constant boat noise. We are hearing As as well as the G clan calls. Exciting!
Helena
20 Aug 2007 09:10:55 PDT
Orcas near mics.
A lot has been happening. The A12s came up from the east, met up with the I15s off of CP, turned and went back toward Vancouver Island BUT then the A12s pulled away and headed off to the west along Hanson Island. The I15s and the I33s continued toward Robson Bight.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 11:45:17 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
At 11:50am a barge loaded with equipment tipped over in Robson Bight spilling its load of equipment into the water near Critical Point. The authorities are on scene assessing the damage. The I15s and the I33s were close when this happened. They grouped up and headed off to the east. We have heard some of their calls (and recently rubs) on the rubbing beach system since. The A12s, at about 12:20pm, turned around off Turn Point and are now eastbound off Hanson Island.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 12:51:40 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A12s just travelled north through Blackney Pass into Blackfish Sound. They have just become vocal. The I15s and the I33s continued east.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 14:48:21 PDT
No orcas present.
This is one time I am happy to report that there are no whales calling. The A12s,as far as we know continued west and the I15s and the I33s continued east. There are a lot of whales in the general area and this has to be a concern. The oil slick is growing and the news so far is very troublesome. We will try to keep you updated as information comes in.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 17:11:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are now hearing A4 calls off the main rubbing beach. They must be following the A30s west.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:06:43 PDT
Distant calls audible.
And now the A5s!
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:16:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
And then the I15s and probably the I33s.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:32:10 PDT
Superb sounds!!
As this worrisome parade continues we would like to thank the Wardens, the Cliff volunteers, for their constant concern and efforts throughout the day.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 22:42:07 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s continue to lead the other groups to the west. We have been able to hear them approach the area in range of CP and the entrance to Blackney Pass for the last while. The others are spread "back" to the Reserve.
Helena
20 Aug 2007 23:29:16 PDT
Sunday, August 19, 2007
19 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Good Morning. We believe the groups continued east after passing by the Ecological Reserve last night around 11pm.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 08:18:32 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We've heard several reports recently & think that at least some of the groups that headed east in Johnstone Strait last night are in Nodales Channel. It also seems that at least some of them turned back to the west. Within the last hour, we heard a report of a group of orcas heading west quickly at Naka Creek, then orcas were sighted in Robson Bight, possibly the A30s, then we heard I 15 calls on the Critical Point hydrophone, and moments ago we heard rubbing sounds on the RB hydrophone. Seems like we have an interesting day already!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 10:20:54 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The close calls we've been recently have been from the I15s, who were close to Cracroft Point. They are now heading west in Johnstone Strait, past Balckney Pass, with other groups spread out across the Strait to the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 12:11:24 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Around 1:30pm the A30s, I15s and the I33s turned around while near Turn Point (western end of Hanson Island) in Johnstone Strait. They then slowly travelled east to the entrance of Blackney Pass. The A30s became "stuck" off CP for quite a while but they groups may have moved on a bit with the now flooding tide. Currently we are mostly listening to the I33s.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 16:05:20 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The three groups got as far as Critical Point and then turned around. They are now travelling slowly westward, rather as if they are trying to find the energy for another party but can't quite be bothered. Boat noise continues with the constant traffic in Johnstone Strait. Other than that, it is a simply gorgeous day,one that encourages a relaxed, why bother about anything kind of summer day.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 17:25:14 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s, the the I33s and possibly the I15s have moved in the direction of CP.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 19:03:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales turned yet again and they are all grouped up, on their own after a busy day being the centre of attention, headed back to the Ecological Reserve. Almost there!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 20:46:00 PDT
Superb sounds!!
They made it!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 21:08:26 PDT
No orcas present.
Good Morning. We believe the groups continued east after passing by the Ecological Reserve last night around 11pm.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 08:18:32 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We've heard several reports recently & think that at least some of the groups that headed east in Johnstone Strait last night are in Nodales Channel. It also seems that at least some of them turned back to the west. Within the last hour, we heard a report of a group of orcas heading west quickly at Naka Creek, then orcas were sighted in Robson Bight, possibly the A30s, then we heard I 15 calls on the Critical Point hydrophone, and moments ago we heard rubbing sounds on the RB hydrophone. Seems like we have an interesting day already!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 10:20:54 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The close calls we've been recently have been from the I15s, who were close to Cracroft Point. They are now heading west in Johnstone Strait, past Balckney Pass, with other groups spread out across the Strait to the Vancouver Island side.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 12:11:24 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Around 1:30pm the A30s, I15s and the I33s turned around while near Turn Point (western end of Hanson Island) in Johnstone Strait. They then slowly travelled east to the entrance of Blackney Pass. The A30s became "stuck" off CP for quite a while but they groups may have moved on a bit with the now flooding tide. Currently we are mostly listening to the I33s.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 16:05:20 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The three groups got as far as Critical Point and then turned around. They are now travelling slowly westward, rather as if they are trying to find the energy for another party but can't quite be bothered. Boat noise continues with the constant traffic in Johnstone Strait. Other than that, it is a simply gorgeous day,one that encourages a relaxed, why bother about anything kind of summer day.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 17:25:14 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s, the the I33s and possibly the I15s have moved in the direction of CP.
Helena
19 Aug 2007 19:03:33 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The whales turned yet again and they are all grouped up, on their own after a busy day being the centre of attention, headed back to the Ecological Reserve. Almost there!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 20:46:00 PDT
Superb sounds!!
They made it!
Helena
19 Aug 2007 21:08:26 PDT
Saturday, August 18, 2007
18 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Boat noise
Johnstone Strait (& everywhere else around us) is full of intense boat noise this morning, as one cruise ship after another passes though on the way north. Eventually, hopefully, the parade will end. Meanwhile, the I15s arrived in Robson Bight a little before 5am, and the A4s are still nearby. We are hearing their calls occasionally, through the boat noise.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 06:51:53 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The boat noise has gone away, at least for the moment. We're listening to the I15s, who have moved further west in the Strait and are close to the CP hydrophone.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 07:12:54 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
We're hearing echolocation on the Critical Point hydrophone - possibly, more orcas from the east are returning (though we're not sure). Meanwhile, the I15 & I33 groups have continued to the west in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 08:36:07 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the a5s arrived in robson Bight, the other groups, who had travelled west, turned off Bauza Cove, before 9am and then proceded east. At least the I15s and I33s returned. At the moment we are not sure where the A4s got to. The I15s and the I33s are just entering the Reserve while the A5s have become somewhat distant on the Critical Point station.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 11:19:49 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
As the sleepy whales (the A5s,I15s and I33s) in Jonhstone Strait continue their rest, the A30s and the A11s have been reported heading west toward Kelesey Bay. There is also a group heading east toward Donegal Head, out of Queen Charlotte Strait. No ids as of yet. The tide will flood in about 1/2 hour. The A36s, by the way, are over by Blunden Harbour.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 13:56:17 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Nap time might be over. The I15s are vocal on CP so they must be moving back to the west. The A12s are coming in from the west but it is still a bit early to tell which route they will choose. Earlier, the nap seemed to end with a few A4 calls.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 15:03:37 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After the boat noise (more cruise ships) was over we began hearing A1 & A4 calls at the rubbing beaches! We're not sure, but the A30s may have returned from their (fast) trip to the east. Possibly, the A4 calls at the beaches are from the A11s. Meanwhile, the I15s, I33s, A5s & A12s are slowly making their way east in the Strait... we're hearing them on the CP & PI hydrophones.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 18:42:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Since the last post: The A30s and the A11s (A11,A56, A13 and A73) travelled to the west from the Bight and showed up off CP around 7:40pm. There they joined the BIG group (the I15s, the rest of the A4s, the A5s, the I33s and the newly arrived back A12s) in a BIG mix-up. Eventually, despite the ebbing tide, they all moved over to the Vancouver Island side and continued east. They are approaching Robson Bight right now. Thanks to everyone for all the reports today; Nick for keeping track of the A30s and A11s, Marie on the "Cliff" for keeping track of movements east of CP, Paul Tixier for watching from CP, and the whale watch boats for keeping everyone up-to-date throughout the day. It may be a busy night!
Helena
18 Aug 2007 21:34:25 PDT
Boat noise
Johnstone Strait (& everywhere else around us) is full of intense boat noise this morning, as one cruise ship after another passes though on the way north. Eventually, hopefully, the parade will end. Meanwhile, the I15s arrived in Robson Bight a little before 5am, and the A4s are still nearby. We are hearing their calls occasionally, through the boat noise.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 06:51:53 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The boat noise has gone away, at least for the moment. We're listening to the I15s, who have moved further west in the Strait and are close to the CP hydrophone.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 07:12:54 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
We're hearing echolocation on the Critical Point hydrophone - possibly, more orcas from the east are returning (though we're not sure). Meanwhile, the I15 & I33 groups have continued to the west in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 08:36:07 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the a5s arrived in robson Bight, the other groups, who had travelled west, turned off Bauza Cove, before 9am and then proceded east. At least the I15s and I33s returned. At the moment we are not sure where the A4s got to. The I15s and the I33s are just entering the Reserve while the A5s have become somewhat distant on the Critical Point station.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 11:19:49 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
As the sleepy whales (the A5s,I15s and I33s) in Jonhstone Strait continue their rest, the A30s and the A11s have been reported heading west toward Kelesey Bay. There is also a group heading east toward Donegal Head, out of Queen Charlotte Strait. No ids as of yet. The tide will flood in about 1/2 hour. The A36s, by the way, are over by Blunden Harbour.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 13:56:17 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Nap time might be over. The I15s are vocal on CP so they must be moving back to the west. The A12s are coming in from the west but it is still a bit early to tell which route they will choose. Earlier, the nap seemed to end with a few A4 calls.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 15:03:37 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After the boat noise (more cruise ships) was over we began hearing A1 & A4 calls at the rubbing beaches! We're not sure, but the A30s may have returned from their (fast) trip to the east. Possibly, the A4 calls at the beaches are from the A11s. Meanwhile, the I15s, I33s, A5s & A12s are slowly making their way east in the Strait... we're hearing them on the CP & PI hydrophones.
Helena
18 Aug 2007 18:42:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Since the last post: The A30s and the A11s (A11,A56, A13 and A73) travelled to the west from the Bight and showed up off CP around 7:40pm. There they joined the BIG group (the I15s, the rest of the A4s, the A5s, the I33s and the newly arrived back A12s) in a BIG mix-up. Eventually, despite the ebbing tide, they all moved over to the Vancouver Island side and continued east. They are approaching Robson Bight right now. Thanks to everyone for all the reports today; Nick for keeping track of the A30s and A11s, Marie on the "Cliff" for keeping track of movements east of CP, Paul Tixier for watching from CP, and the whale watch boats for keeping everyone up-to-date throughout the day. It may be a busy night!
Helena
18 Aug 2007 21:34:25 PDT
Thursday, August 16, 2007
16 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
We have orcas all around us this morning! The I15s, I31s, A36s & A24s are in Blackfish Sound, and at least some of the A4s & A12s are in Johnstone Strait. We've been hearing their calls all night & the sun has just risen on another lovely day.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 06:40:14 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s and the I33s just travelled south through Blackney Pass and are about to enter Johnstone Strait. Their travels were preceded just a few calls in Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile. the A11s and the A5s are still resting in Johnstone Strait and the I15s,A36s and the A24s are to the west.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 12:57:08 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A24s and the I15s followed the A30s and the I33s to Johnstone Strait. They elected to follow the Hanson Island shore with I43 and I16 in the lead.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 13:37:54 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The whales have headed off to the east from the rubbing beaches after an incredibly long (4 hours) rubbing session during which all of the groups (A4s, A5s, A30s, I15s, I33s) visited and revisited the Main rubbing beach. What a rub!
Helena
16 Aug 2007 18:40:02 PDT
No orcas present.
It seems that all the groups headed off to the east together after their marathon rub. We last heard a report, around 8pm, that they were at the Adams River, still in a relaxed clump, heading east. We are waiting.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 22:52:33 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We have orcas all around us this morning! The I15s, I31s, A36s & A24s are in Blackfish Sound, and at least some of the A4s & A12s are in Johnstone Strait. We've been hearing their calls all night & the sun has just risen on another lovely day.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 06:40:14 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s and the I33s just travelled south through Blackney Pass and are about to enter Johnstone Strait. Their travels were preceded just a few calls in Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile. the A11s and the A5s are still resting in Johnstone Strait and the I15s,A36s and the A24s are to the west.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 12:57:08 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The A24s and the I15s followed the A30s and the I33s to Johnstone Strait. They elected to follow the Hanson Island shore with I43 and I16 in the lead.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 13:37:54 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The whales have headed off to the east from the rubbing beaches after an incredibly long (4 hours) rubbing session during which all of the groups (A4s, A5s, A30s, I15s, I33s) visited and revisited the Main rubbing beach. What a rub!
Helena
16 Aug 2007 18:40:02 PDT
No orcas present.
It seems that all the groups headed off to the east together after their marathon rub. We last heard a report, around 8pm, that they were at the Adams River, still in a relaxed clump, heading east. We are waiting.
Helena
16 Aug 2007 22:52:33 PDT
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
15 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
The parade has begun. There are A4s, G clan calls along with the A30s. All groups are westbound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 09:28:00 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups in Johnstone Strait who continued west, maybe as far as Beaver Cove, turned 40 minutes ago, and are now headed east spread out across Johnstone Strait. The A36s are still in Queen Charlotte Strait but they are reported to be with another group westbound from Lizard Point.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 12:46:31 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
While the A30s linger in Blackfish Sound and the A36s remain in Queen Charlotte Strait, on the Johnstone Strait side, the whales (the A4s, A12s and I31s (maybe just the I33s)have headed east to the rubbing beaches. The I15s are still a bit further west and we have not heard A5 calls clearly today, leaving us, wondering if they are still very far east.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 15:54:31 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
There has been quite a bit of movement. The I15s, A4s, I31s (I33s at least) and A12s moved west in the Strait to the entrance of Blackney Pass while the A30s have moved around in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 17:45:57 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The I15s zipped through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. This left the A4s in Johnstone Strait and most likely (until we hear differently) the A12s, I33s as well. The A30s were last heard in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 22:43:24 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Another development! The A36s have dropped "down" to Blackfish Sound from their Queen Charlotte Strait perch - perhaps it was the I15s who encouraged them nearer.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 22:58:08 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The parade has begun. There are A4s, G clan calls along with the A30s. All groups are westbound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 09:28:00 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups in Johnstone Strait who continued west, maybe as far as Beaver Cove, turned 40 minutes ago, and are now headed east spread out across Johnstone Strait. The A36s are still in Queen Charlotte Strait but they are reported to be with another group westbound from Lizard Point.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 12:46:31 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
While the A30s linger in Blackfish Sound and the A36s remain in Queen Charlotte Strait, on the Johnstone Strait side, the whales (the A4s, A12s and I31s (maybe just the I33s)have headed east to the rubbing beaches. The I15s are still a bit further west and we have not heard A5 calls clearly today, leaving us, wondering if they are still very far east.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 15:54:31 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
There has been quite a bit of movement. The I15s, A4s, I31s (I33s at least) and A12s moved west in the Strait to the entrance of Blackney Pass while the A30s have moved around in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 17:45:57 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The I15s zipped through Blackney Pass on their way to Blackfish Sound. This left the A4s in Johnstone Strait and most likely (until we hear differently) the A12s, I33s as well. The A30s were last heard in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 22:43:24 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Another development! The A36s have dropped "down" to Blackfish Sound from their Queen Charlotte Strait perch - perhaps it was the I15s who encouraged them nearer.
Helena
15 Aug 2007 22:58:08 PDT
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
14 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
We last heard the I15s (briefly) at the rubbing beaches around 2:30am. They were heading east, along with the I31s & A12s. It's a lovely & calm sunny morning here. We are waiting.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 07:53:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Interesting day shaping up. The A34s are eastbound in Queen Charlotte Strait. Last night they accompanied the I15s and I31s to Blackney Pass. We thought they had continued with the other two groups east in Johnstone Strait. However, at some point they must have pulled away and headed back west to meet up with the A36s again. Right now, the I31s have returned from the east and are moving slowly west (hardly any calls) toward Cracroft Point. The A30s, A12 & A33, the I15s, A4s and A5s are still east of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 12:00:11 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Both the I15s and the I31s travelled west in Johnstone Strait to the western end of Hanson Island. At 1:35pm they turned and are now travelling east along the Hanson Island shore to the entrance of Blackney Pass.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 14:05:34 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I15s and the I33s (not all of the I31s were seen today) are in the midst of an afternoon nap, drifting eastward past the Ecological Reserve. The A36s and the A34s stalled off of Lizard Point and spent most of the day foraging.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 18:38:38 PDT
No orcas present.
We last heard the I15s (briefly) at the rubbing beaches around 2:30am. They were heading east, along with the I31s & A12s. It's a lovely & calm sunny morning here. We are waiting.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 07:53:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Interesting day shaping up. The A34s are eastbound in Queen Charlotte Strait. Last night they accompanied the I15s and I31s to Blackney Pass. We thought they had continued with the other two groups east in Johnstone Strait. However, at some point they must have pulled away and headed back west to meet up with the A36s again. Right now, the I31s have returned from the east and are moving slowly west (hardly any calls) toward Cracroft Point. The A30s, A12 & A33, the I15s, A4s and A5s are still east of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 12:00:11 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Both the I15s and the I31s travelled west in Johnstone Strait to the western end of Hanson Island. At 1:35pm they turned and are now travelling east along the Hanson Island shore to the entrance of Blackney Pass.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 14:05:34 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I15s and the I33s (not all of the I31s were seen today) are in the midst of an afternoon nap, drifting eastward past the Ecological Reserve. The A36s and the A34s stalled off of Lizard Point and spent most of the day foraging.
Helena
14 Aug 2007 18:38:38 PDT
Monday, August 13, 2007
13 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Orcas near mics.
Calls from the I31s,I15s, A4s and A5s gradually faded away until just after 1am. We had the impression these groups were westbound at that time and may have left Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. This morning, after 6am, we have heard (briefly so far) a group come up to Critical Point. We have yet to determine who is there but last night we had lost track of the A30s.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 06:52:16 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 and A33 just rushed south through Blackney Pass. They were located this morning east of Lizard Point in Queen Charlotte Strait. We have just learned that a couple of whales have been spotted entering the east end of the Reserve heading west. Also, from "below" the A30s, A11s, and some of the A5s are eastbound, heading toward bear Point. Apparently they spent 2 hours off of Camp Point waiting for the tide to turn to flood.. There has been no sighting of the rest of the A12s (the A34s so far today - they left yesterday via Blackfish Sound.)
Helena
13 Aug 2007 13:50:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The group off the eastern end turned out to be the I15s. They went in for a brief rub and presumably kept going west. A12 and A33 are headed toward them and they are calling now. We are having to rethink our impression about what happened last night: instead of going west the A5s, A4s went east with the A30s. The I15s followed suit. Our remaining question, and perhaps it will onn be answered, is what happened to the I31s? The was a reoort this morning of a group of 9 -12 off of Bold Head. We heard no calls and they disappeared into the fog before any boats were out.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 14:14:52 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I31s finally did show up in Johnstone Strait coming west t o CP with the I15s.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 17:34:54 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
A busy night! Shooting stars, excited whales. The I15s and the I31s went through Weynton Pass earlier and met up with the A34s. A12 ansd A33 had rushed up to Blackfish earlier as well but they returned back to Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass on their own. They continued east and have recently passed Critical Point. Meanwhile, the I15s and Co, after a deep rest off the western end of Blackfish Sound, began to move east into Blackney Pass with the A34s and possibly others. There are a lot of blows going through the Pass. The lead groups are about to enter Johnstone Strait.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 23:22:28 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Calls from the I31s,I15s, A4s and A5s gradually faded away until just after 1am. We had the impression these groups were westbound at that time and may have left Johnstone Strait via Weynton Pass. This morning, after 6am, we have heard (briefly so far) a group come up to Critical Point. We have yet to determine who is there but last night we had lost track of the A30s.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 06:52:16 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A12 and A33 just rushed south through Blackney Pass. They were located this morning east of Lizard Point in Queen Charlotte Strait. We have just learned that a couple of whales have been spotted entering the east end of the Reserve heading west. Also, from "below" the A30s, A11s, and some of the A5s are eastbound, heading toward bear Point. Apparently they spent 2 hours off of Camp Point waiting for the tide to turn to flood.. There has been no sighting of the rest of the A12s (the A34s so far today - they left yesterday via Blackfish Sound.)
Helena
13 Aug 2007 13:50:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The group off the eastern end turned out to be the I15s. They went in for a brief rub and presumably kept going west. A12 and A33 are headed toward them and they are calling now. We are having to rethink our impression about what happened last night: instead of going west the A5s, A4s went east with the A30s. The I15s followed suit. Our remaining question, and perhaps it will onn be answered, is what happened to the I31s? The was a reoort this morning of a group of 9 -12 off of Bold Head. We heard no calls and they disappeared into the fog before any boats were out.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 14:14:52 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I31s finally did show up in Johnstone Strait coming west t o CP with the I15s.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 17:34:54 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
A busy night! Shooting stars, excited whales. The I15s and the I31s went through Weynton Pass earlier and met up with the A34s. A12 ansd A33 had rushed up to Blackfish earlier as well but they returned back to Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass on their own. They continued east and have recently passed Critical Point. Meanwhile, the I15s and Co, after a deep rest off the western end of Blackfish Sound, began to move east into Blackney Pass with the A34s and possibly others. There are a lot of blows going through the Pass. The lead groups are about to enter Johnstone Strait.
Helena
13 Aug 2007 23:22:28 PDT
Sunday, August 12, 2007
12 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
The A36s waited for the I15s and the I31s and brought them down Queen Charlotte Strait to the A30s and the A11s. These groups travelled through Blackney Pass and are now on their way to Johnstone Strait.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 00:11:36 PDT
No orcas present.
All the groups that came in just before midight (A36s,I15s & I31s) along with the A30s and A11s) carried on to the east in Johnstone Strait. They were past the Ecological Reserve by just after 2am. They seemed to be in a hurry but a few (I15s + As) had time to touch in at the main rubbing beach on their way. We've heard nothing since & it's a very foggy morning here.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 07:39:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It is quite the parade. All the groups are filing up from the east, stopping for a rub or two, moving on to CP and beyond. The A12s have come along for the party and the A5s, the rest of the A4s as well. All the A1s are present, in company with the I15s & I31s. Might be a good exercise to figure out how many whales are here today!
Helena
12 Aug 2007 13:47:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the A30s & A11s finished their rub they came west to the Bight, arriving about the time the others groups turned and headed back to the east. Some of the groups got as far as Hidden Cove (Telegraph Cove area).
Helena
12 Aug 2007 15:48:09 PDT
Boat noise
The A36 brothers have just headed north through Blackney Pass, all together, and are now in Blackfish Sound. The other groups (A11s, A12s, A30s, I31s, I15s) are still in Johnstone Strait, between Blackney Pass & Robson Bight, and headed east. We're listening to their calls amidst persistent boat noise.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 17:27:10 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Time to catch up. The A36s left the area via Blackney Pass & travelling through Blackfish Sound. The A34s (no one saw A12 and A33!) followed. We think the A30s pulled the I31s and I15s east in Johnstone Strait for a while leaving the A4s and the A5s around the Robson Bight area. The I31s and the I15s have returned to the Bight just a short while ago. The groups are very vocal!
Helena
12 Aug 2007 23:00:27 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A36s waited for the I15s and the I31s and brought them down Queen Charlotte Strait to the A30s and the A11s. These groups travelled through Blackney Pass and are now on their way to Johnstone Strait.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 00:11:36 PDT
No orcas present.
All the groups that came in just before midight (A36s,I15s & I31s) along with the A30s and A11s) carried on to the east in Johnstone Strait. They were past the Ecological Reserve by just after 2am. They seemed to be in a hurry but a few (I15s + As) had time to touch in at the main rubbing beach on their way. We've heard nothing since & it's a very foggy morning here.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 07:39:46 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It is quite the parade. All the groups are filing up from the east, stopping for a rub or two, moving on to CP and beyond. The A12s have come along for the party and the A5s, the rest of the A4s as well. All the A1s are present, in company with the I15s & I31s. Might be a good exercise to figure out how many whales are here today!
Helena
12 Aug 2007 13:47:58 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the A30s & A11s finished their rub they came west to the Bight, arriving about the time the others groups turned and headed back to the east. Some of the groups got as far as Hidden Cove (Telegraph Cove area).
Helena
12 Aug 2007 15:48:09 PDT
Boat noise
The A36 brothers have just headed north through Blackney Pass, all together, and are now in Blackfish Sound. The other groups (A11s, A12s, A30s, I31s, I15s) are still in Johnstone Strait, between Blackney Pass & Robson Bight, and headed east. We're listening to their calls amidst persistent boat noise.
Helena
12 Aug 2007 17:27:10 PDT
Superb sounds!!
Time to catch up. The A36s left the area via Blackney Pass & travelling through Blackfish Sound. The A34s (no one saw A12 and A33!) followed. We think the A30s pulled the I31s and I15s east in Johnstone Strait for a while leaving the A4s and the A5s around the Robson Bight area. The I31s and the I15s have returned to the Bight just a short while ago. The groups are very vocal!
Helena
12 Aug 2007 23:00:27 PDT
Saturday, August 11, 2007
11 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Multiple pod calls audible.
This has become a busy orca day once again. This morning a small group of transients (T2B, the T60s) were spotted south of Stubbs Island. They most likely were involved in a Dalls porpoise hunt north of Stubss. (Jared Towers/Sea Smoke report). From there they moved through the Pearse Island and have just now turned toward Johnstone Strait from Cormorant Island. Meanwhile, the A30s and the A11s have returned from the east and are currently westbound in the Strait. Also, the A36s were off Bere point this morning and just recently two more groups (the I31s and I15s, Bill MacKay report) are headed east through Queen Charlottte Strait from the Port Hardy area.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 13:23:16 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are finally beginning to hear the incoming groups on Flower Island. They sound like they are still not moving very fast but they have the slack and then soon the flood tide with them.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 22:52:38 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
This has become a busy orca day once again. This morning a small group of transients (T2B, the T60s) were spotted south of Stubbs Island. They most likely were involved in a Dalls porpoise hunt north of Stubss. (Jared Towers/Sea Smoke report). From there they moved through the Pearse Island and have just now turned toward Johnstone Strait from Cormorant Island. Meanwhile, the A30s and the A11s have returned from the east and are currently westbound in the Strait. Also, the A36s were off Bere point this morning and just recently two more groups (the I31s and I15s, Bill MacKay report) are headed east through Queen Charlottte Strait from the Port Hardy area.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 13:23:16 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are finally beginning to hear the incoming groups on Flower Island. They sound like they are still not moving very fast but they have the slack and then soon the flood tide with them.
Helena
11 Aug 2007 22:52:38 PDT
Thursday, August 09, 2007
09 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I11s are trekking back west from the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 07:28:47 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
As the A30s and the I11s continue west another group has rounded the corner from the east at Critical Point.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 08:00:57 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups are converging at the eastern end of Hanson Island in Johnstone Strait. The A12s, A4s andA5sall came up from the east and headed to Cracroft Point. Meanwhile the A30s and the I11s, after turning around off Blinkhorn, headed east along the Hanson Island side. Right now the A30s and the I11s are quiet (and have been so for a while after the turn) and the A12s, A5s and A4s are sproadically vocal.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 10:39:51 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and the I11s have "merged" with the A25s and the A23s off of CP while the A12s cross over toward the Bight from the Sophias. So far we have not actually heard any A4s and Nick Templeman reports that the A8s and the A11s (? all of them) stayed east last night and are not far from Rock Point (Chatham Point area.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 11:14:19 PDT
Boat noise
This has been our most complicated day to date. After the A25s and the A23s socialised with the A30s and the I11s there was a split, with the A5s turning east and the I11s and A30s turning west. The A12s and the A24s never did make it to CP at this time. Instead they turned east and crossed over from the Sophias. They went all the way to the eastern boundary where they turned west once more. By 3pm they were opposite Robson Bight. From there they moved up to the CP area (only the A12s were vocal) and crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass. Meanwhile the A30s and the I11s had continued west toward Telegraph Cove. From there the A30s turned back east before 5pm while the I11s moved into Weynton Pass. The A12s had moved back east as well and just before 6pm they were opposite Robson Bight once again. By this time, the groups had begun to shut down for a rest. The A23s and A25s may have gone all the way to the beaches for a very short rub and by 5:30pm they were back off Critical Point. The short of this is that the groups are in their various groups heading east in different locations throughout the Strait. The I11s are still undecided in the entrance to Weynton Passage. The A36s are still likely in Queen Charlotte Strait, way to the west. And the A8s and A11 are still westbound in the lower Johnstone Strait.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 18:26:53 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
After all of the activity today the end of the day held one more surprise! The T100s came out of White Beach Pass and travelled south through Blackney Pass toward Johnstone Strait. There were no calls and the IDs were provided by Jared Towers. The I11s may have finally made up their minds by heading out toward Queen Charlotte Strait just a short while ago. All the whales in the Strait may have drifted east. The last we heard was echo location on Critical Point (Robson Bight). at 8:33pm.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 21:05:40 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s and the I11s are trekking back west from the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 07:28:47 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
As the A30s and the I11s continue west another group has rounded the corner from the east at Critical Point.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 08:00:57 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
All the groups are converging at the eastern end of Hanson Island in Johnstone Strait. The A12s, A4s andA5sall came up from the east and headed to Cracroft Point. Meanwhile the A30s and the I11s, after turning around off Blinkhorn, headed east along the Hanson Island side. Right now the A30s and the I11s are quiet (and have been so for a while after the turn) and the A12s, A5s and A4s are sproadically vocal.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 10:39:51 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and the I11s have "merged" with the A25s and the A23s off of CP while the A12s cross over toward the Bight from the Sophias. So far we have not actually heard any A4s and Nick Templeman reports that the A8s and the A11s (? all of them) stayed east last night and are not far from Rock Point (Chatham Point area.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 11:14:19 PDT
Boat noise
This has been our most complicated day to date. After the A25s and the A23s socialised with the A30s and the I11s there was a split, with the A5s turning east and the I11s and A30s turning west. The A12s and the A24s never did make it to CP at this time. Instead they turned east and crossed over from the Sophias. They went all the way to the eastern boundary where they turned west once more. By 3pm they were opposite Robson Bight. From there they moved up to the CP area (only the A12s were vocal) and crossed the entrance to Blackney Pass. Meanwhile the A30s and the I11s had continued west toward Telegraph Cove. From there the A30s turned back east before 5pm while the I11s moved into Weynton Pass. The A12s had moved back east as well and just before 6pm they were opposite Robson Bight once again. By this time, the groups had begun to shut down for a rest. The A23s and A25s may have gone all the way to the beaches for a very short rub and by 5:30pm they were back off Critical Point. The short of this is that the groups are in their various groups heading east in different locations throughout the Strait. The I11s are still undecided in the entrance to Weynton Passage. The A36s are still likely in Queen Charlotte Strait, way to the west. And the A8s and A11 are still westbound in the lower Johnstone Strait.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 18:26:53 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
After all of the activity today the end of the day held one more surprise! The T100s came out of White Beach Pass and travelled south through Blackney Pass toward Johnstone Strait. There were no calls and the IDs were provided by Jared Towers. The I11s may have finally made up their minds by heading out toward Queen Charlotte Strait just a short while ago. All the whales in the Strait may have drifted east. The last we heard was echo location on Critical Point (Robson Bight). at 8:33pm.
Helena
09 Aug 2007 21:05:40 PDT
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
08 August 2007, Orcalab reports:
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As the A11s and the A5s enjoy themselves at the rubbing beaches the A30s and the I11s (following) passed slowly and silently through Blackney Pass. These two groups are in Johnstone Strait now. The rub continues.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 09:58:34 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s went for a rub and then travelled off to the eastern boundary of the Reserve. The I11s followed and currently we can hear them off the main beach. The A5s and the A4s disappeared out of range to the east a while ago.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 13:58:25 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and the I11s have turned around and are back off Robson Bight. Houdini and her calf (the most famous humpback of this area!) is in the Bight as well.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 14:25:17 PDT
Orcas near mics.
As the A30s and the I11s continue to the west past Kaikash Creek, the A36s have turned up inside Robson Bight.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 16:39:39 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After the A36s turned up in the Bight the A30s and the I11s turned around off the western end of Johnstone Strait and went east along the Vancouver Island shore. The A36s hurried westward and entered Blackney Pass just after 7pm. They continued into Blackfish Sound and beyond. The A30s and the I11s continued east toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 21:26:18 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
As the A11s and the A5s enjoy themselves at the rubbing beaches the A30s and the I11s (following) passed slowly and silently through Blackney Pass. These two groups are in Johnstone Strait now. The rub continues.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 09:58:34 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s went for a rub and then travelled off to the eastern boundary of the Reserve. The I11s followed and currently we can hear them off the main beach. The A5s and the A4s disappeared out of range to the east a while ago.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 13:58:25 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s and the I11s have turned around and are back off Robson Bight. Houdini and her calf (the most famous humpback of this area!) is in the Bight as well.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 14:25:17 PDT
Orcas near mics.
As the A30s and the I11s continue to the west past Kaikash Creek, the A36s have turned up inside Robson Bight.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 16:39:39 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
After the A36s turned up in the Bight the A30s and the I11s turned around off the western end of Johnstone Strait and went east along the Vancouver Island shore. The A36s hurried westward and entered Blackney Pass just after 7pm. They continued into Blackfish Sound and beyond. The A30s and the I11s continued east toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
08 Aug 2007 21:26:18 PDT
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