Weather and Whales

Weather seems to play a part in the number of reports that come in to our system, and we have had weather. Between storms, downpours, and fog, we still managed a few beautiful days to see whales and dolphins. One surprise sighting, which is not usual at this time of year has been two Grey (Gray) Whales in Discovery Passage, by Campbell River, as well as a Minke report.

Grey Whales usually migrate down to the Baja, yet as we’ve seen over the years, the Humpbacks that also were known to migrate to warmer, calving locations have become regulars throughout the year. This is possibly the same that is happening with the Grey Whales. Do we expect to see more of them in our inside waters? I do believe so.

There have been a few Orca sightings including some Northern Resident Orca reports. The Transient Bigg’s are regulars, feeding on the numerous Sea Lions, seals, and other species. What we have missed out on seeing are the Southern Resident Orca who usually make a brief Winter appearance. They may have been hiding from view during some of the storms that passed through.

Of the smaller species, Pacific White Sided Dolphins have been travelling in numbers of over 200 animals, while Dall’s Porpoise are staying closer to the Vancouver Island side or up inlets. We regularly find Transient Bigg’s Orca following both species as part of their food source.

WOWs works throught the year, so please continue to keep your eyes open, and report your sightings to us.