Different Orca

Transient (Bigg’s) Orca and Northern Resident Orca were both observed during the past reporting period. Transient Orca feed on seals, sea lions, porpoises, dolphins, and occasionally larger whales. They tend to travel around quite extensively from day-to-day in search of their prey. Resident Orca feed on fish, with salmon being their preferred prey. The Northern Resident Orca tend to reside in coastal areas in the northern half of B.C. On August 20th, some of the Northern Resident Orca travelled to the eastern end of Johnstone Strait and into Nodales Channel. Marine biologists may be able to identify an individual Orca by specific marks on its dorsal fin as well as the colouration pattern on the back of the whale just behind the dorsal fin. Regardless of which type of Orca you come across in the wild, they are always a delight to watch!

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