Dorsal Fins of Orca

Orca were observed in various waterways during the past two weeks. Orca were seen in Malaspina Strait off of Texada Island and up through Sutil Channel, Lewis Channel, and Discovery Passage. These were Transient Orca, which prey on seals, sea lions, porpoises, and dolphins. On at least two occasions, Transient Orca were observed hunting Pacific White-Sided dolphins. They hunt with stealth (without using echolocation) and they work cooperatively to catch their prey. Adult male Orca can be recogized by their 2-meter tall dorsal fins. The dorsal fins of female Orca are approximately 1-meter tall with a more prominent curve.

Humpback whales were also reported in a number of locations from upper Georgia Strait to Johnstone Strait. A couple of Humpbacks were breaching which delighted the viewers. One Grey whale was seen near Stuart Island in Yuculta Rapids. It is odd to see a single Grey whale at that location and at this time of year as most would usually be found at their feeding grounds off of Alaska. Rounding out our report are sightings a few sightings of porpoises and a number of Pacific White-Sided dolphins.

June 5th is World Environment Day and June 8th is World Ocean Day. As we celebrate these days, reflect and appreciate the natural environment that we enjoy here in British Columbia. Cetaceans are just a small part of what we can enjoy. Consider action items that you can do to help protect Cetaceans, oceans, and the environment! To get some ideas of acts of conservation, go to the Education component of our website and read about the various ‘Threats to Marine Mammals’.

In our Magazine section, read about Humpback whales off of Australia, learn about the shrinking size of Right whales, and find out where Blue whales were seen.

The Federal Government (DFO) statement about watching whales in the wild: “To address disturbance in the presence of whales, a mandatory 400-metre vessel approach distance for all killer whales is in effect starting June 1, 2020 in all southern British Columbia coastal waters between Campbell River and just north of Ucluelet. The Marine Mammal Regulations continue to remain in effect year-round, including maintaining a minimum 200 metre approach distance from all killer whales in Canadian Pacific waters other than described above, and 100 metres for other whales, porpoises and dolphins OR 200 metres when the animal is in resting position or with a calf.”

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