Orca Are Around

During the past few weeks, Orca have been sighted off Sechelt, Hornby Island, Comox, Powell River, Campbell River, and the eastern end of Johnstone Strait. Most of these sightings were Transient Biggs Killer whales. There was a small pod of Northern Resident Orca (fish-eating) observed south of Powell River on February 19 and it is unknown where they went from there.

A few Humpback whales were reported – our publication includes two videos of Humpback whales observed recently. A number of small pods of Pacific White-Sided dolphins were also seen as well as one pod of Dall’s porpoise. Dall’s porpoise can be recognized by a triangular dorsal fin with a white tip. Dall’s porpoises sometimes may be mistaken as baby Orca because their coloration pattern is similar to Orca, i.e. Dall’s porpoises are black and white too. Let us know what you see when you are out and about close to the water!

The Federal Government (DFO) issued the following statement about watching Orca in the wild: “Vessels must stay at least 400 m away from all killer whales in southern British Columbia coastal waters between Campbell River and Ucluelet, including Barkley and Howe Sound. This is in effect year-round until May 31, 2023. If killer whales approach any vessel, boaters should place their engine in neutral and wait for the animals to pass.”

For all other areas of B.C. outside of the area indicated above, a minimum distance of 200-m must be maintained when viewing Orca. When viewing other species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, a minimum distance of 100-m must be kept.

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