16 December Cetaceanlab reports:
Winter has certainly arrived around the North Coast of British Columbia, as we are experiencing strong, cold outflow winds out of the mainland inlets. Chopping wood during this time of year is one of the most time consuming task for us, but yesterday afternoon we had a welcome break from doing just that as suddenly we heard Orca calls on our outside speakers.
It turned out that we were listening to the A5s and A4s on our "Home" station. The sun was just about to set, so we had no visual on the whales but we are sure that they travelled south in Squally Channel. For about 40 minutes we listened to their calls as they passed the entrance to Whale Channel. The two families must have decided to turn back to the north a little later, because we heard them again on our "Home" station just before 7pm. It was excactly the time where the tide turned from an ebb to a flood and the whales took perfect advantage of it. They entered Whale Channel, the A5s ahead of the A4s, and then passed quickly by our hydrophone at Borde Island. Their calls became very faint by 7:23pm. We don't know where the whales went after they were out of our acoustic range. We are waiting....
Friday, December 16, 2005
Monday, November 07, 2005
07 November Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Hello everyone! We're away at the moment, but have heard from Jared Towers that the A4s, A5s & A36s were near Lizard Point 2 days ago, heading west. Andy, who is at at the lab, hasn't heard any calls for the last 2 days, so it looks like we are in a waiting mode once again!
Paul
07 Nov 2005 12:26:49 PST
No orcas present.
Hello everyone! We're away at the moment, but have heard from Jared Towers that the A4s, A5s & A36s were near Lizard Point 2 days ago, heading west. Andy, who is at at the lab, hasn't heard any calls for the last 2 days, so it looks like we are in a waiting mode once again!
Paul
07 Nov 2005 12:26:49 PST
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
02 November Orcalab reports
Superb sounds!!
It seems possibly cruel to tell you this, but we hope you'll be happy to know, that we're listening to a wonderful concert from the A4s, including Springer, all the A5s (probably) & the A36s, who are in the entrance of Blackney Pass at the moment, probably foraging. There is no longer a camera at CP, so we can't see what's happening, but the sounds are enough!
Paul
02 Nov 2005 10:03:12 PST
Superb sounds!!
It seems possibly cruel to tell you this, but we hope you'll be happy to know, that we're listening to a wonderful concert from the A4s, including Springer, all the A5s (probably) & the A36s, who are in the entrance of Blackney Pass at the moment, probably foraging. There is no longer a camera at CP, so we can't see what's happening, but the sounds are enough!
Paul
02 Nov 2005 10:03:12 PST
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
01 November Orcalab reports
No orcas present.
We reviewed the tapes from last night and by early this morning we could hear the A36s along with the A5 group not too far off the Bight. Their calls faded into the distance and we never heard them come to the west in range of CP. This was the same for the A4s earlier. Therefore, we think the groups might have gone back to the east. Meanwhile the dolphins who had come in from Blackfish Sound and travelled through Blackney Pass to the Strait also went east toward the Bight. There sounded like quite a group of dolphins and this morning we have heard reports of a minke in Blackney and humpbacks near Blinkhorn. Sealions and Dalls porpoise have also been out and about.
Helena
01 Nov 2005 13:44:04 PST
Boat noise
We started to hear distant calls on Critical Point at 8:16pm. They are now getting louder. It seems the A4s, A5s, A1s are back from the east.
Julie @ OL
01 Nov 2005 21:21:46 PST
No orcas present.
We reviewed the tapes from last night and by early this morning we could hear the A36s along with the A5 group not too far off the Bight. Their calls faded into the distance and we never heard them come to the west in range of CP. This was the same for the A4s earlier. Therefore, we think the groups might have gone back to the east. Meanwhile the dolphins who had come in from Blackfish Sound and travelled through Blackney Pass to the Strait also went east toward the Bight. There sounded like quite a group of dolphins and this morning we have heard reports of a minke in Blackney and humpbacks near Blinkhorn. Sealions and Dalls porpoise have also been out and about.
Helena
01 Nov 2005 13:44:04 PST
Boat noise
We started to hear distant calls on Critical Point at 8:16pm. They are now getting louder. It seems the A4s, A5s, A1s are back from the east.
Julie @ OL
01 Nov 2005 21:21:46 PST
Monday, October 31, 2005
Sunday, October 30, 2005
30 October Orcalab reports:
No orcas present.
Good morning everyone! Once again, we've had a quiet night (apart from boat noise) & think that the A1/A4/A5 group of orcas that headed east in Johnstone Strait after their energetic entrance at midnight 2 nights ago, are probably somewhere to the east. We are, of course, hoping they will return soon! Meanwhile, we're enjoying a rather blustery morning here, & all's well... we hope things are going well for you, too, wherever you are.
Paul
30 Oct 2005 10:13:05 PST
No orcas present.
Good morning everyone! Once again, we've had a quiet night (apart from boat noise) & think that the A1/A4/A5 group of orcas that headed east in Johnstone Strait after their energetic entrance at midnight 2 nights ago, are probably somewhere to the east. We are, of course, hoping they will return soon! Meanwhile, we're enjoying a rather blustery morning here, & all's well... we hope things are going well for you, too, wherever you are.
Paul
30 Oct 2005 10:13:05 PST
Saturday, October 29, 2005
29 October Orcalab reports:
Superb sounds!!
The A5s & A4s are back! We're listening to them on the Parson Island hydrophone as they head towards Johnstone Strait.
Paul
29 Oct 2005 00:46:36 PDT
No orcas present.
It has been a while now since we heard calls. Possibly the whales (the A4s, A5s and A1s)continued to the east after lingering off Critical Point. Meanwhile Pacific Whitesided dolphins can still be heard in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
29 Oct 2005 04:08:09 PDT
No orcas present.
We have not heard anything now for a few hours but the whales went east and will come back at some point. We read with interest Cetacealab's report about seeing the A4s a few days ago. They have travelled! And by the sounds of things earlier this morning they still had energy to burn.
Helena
29 Oct 2005 10:36:01 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since early this morning, & think that the large group of orcas (A1s, A4s, A5s) that headed into Johnstone Strait shortly after midnight must have continued to the east. We are waiting for their return!
Paul
29 Oct 2005 18:46:31 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A5s & A4s are back! We're listening to them on the Parson Island hydrophone as they head towards Johnstone Strait.
Paul
29 Oct 2005 00:46:36 PDT
No orcas present.
It has been a while now since we heard calls. Possibly the whales (the A4s, A5s and A1s)continued to the east after lingering off Critical Point. Meanwhile Pacific Whitesided dolphins can still be heard in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
29 Oct 2005 04:08:09 PDT
No orcas present.
We have not heard anything now for a few hours but the whales went east and will come back at some point. We read with interest Cetacealab's report about seeing the A4s a few days ago. They have travelled! And by the sounds of things earlier this morning they still had energy to burn.
Helena
29 Oct 2005 10:36:01 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since early this morning, & think that the large group of orcas (A1s, A4s, A5s) that headed into Johnstone Strait shortly after midnight must have continued to the east. We are waiting for their return!
Paul
29 Oct 2005 18:46:31 PDT
Thursday, October 27, 2005
October 27 Cetaceanlab reports:
Our plan was to return home last Saturday which would have been the last chance for us to beach our boat on a high tide. Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate and we were held “hostage” in Hartley Bay over the weekend. On Monday morning, October 24, Marven Robinson offered us a ride home in the Gitga'at crew boat. There was still a storm warning in effect but we tried anyways. On our way south through Wright Sound the wind suddenly picked up from the southeast and we found ourselves bouncing around in 5feet waves. Just as we decided to turn back to Hartley Bay, Marven's nephew Richard who came along for the boat ride, spotted a male Orca. We stopped and while the waves grew bigger we were able to see at least 4 Orcas foraging in the entrance to MacKay Reach. It was very difficult to make out their fins in the pounding waves and it was an even bigger task to get an ID picture. At one point a female and her calf came close to the boat and we got a picture of the female. Then it was time for us to leave the whales as the wind picked up more and more. Back in Hartley Bay we took a close look at the one picture we got and it turned out to be a good ID shot of A52. Her two nicks were easy to make out and so we know that we had at least part of the A4s that day. A13 was most likely the male that we spotted first.
Our plan was to return home last Saturday which would have been the last chance for us to beach our boat on a high tide. Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate and we were held “hostage” in Hartley Bay over the weekend. On Monday morning, October 24, Marven Robinson offered us a ride home in the Gitga'at crew boat. There was still a storm warning in effect but we tried anyways. On our way south through Wright Sound the wind suddenly picked up from the southeast and we found ourselves bouncing around in 5feet waves. Just as we decided to turn back to Hartley Bay, Marven's nephew Richard who came along for the boat ride, spotted a male Orca. We stopped and while the waves grew bigger we were able to see at least 4 Orcas foraging in the entrance to MacKay Reach. It was very difficult to make out their fins in the pounding waves and it was an even bigger task to get an ID picture. At one point a female and her calf came close to the boat and we got a picture of the female. Then it was time for us to leave the whales as the wind picked up more and more. Back in Hartley Bay we took a close look at the one picture we got and it turned out to be a good ID shot of A52. Her two nicks were easy to make out and so we know that we had at least part of the A4s that day. A13 was most likely the male that we spotted first.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
07 September Orcalab reports:
10:25 PDT Orcas near mics.
Earlier this morning the A30s came out of the east and went west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. After travelling a bit further the west (by the sounds) they may have crossed over closer to the Vancouver Island side and then back past the entrance of Blackney and into the Reserve. We heard them again briefly at the beaches and believe now they turned back to the wesy yet again and are currently somewhere in the Reserve. Yesterday, was an intyeresting day, especially after the A12s and the I11s entered the Strait. In total there were about 60 whales. Although it was difficult to track all their movements we think the A30s, I15s and G17s formed one large group that kept to the same general movements. The A12s and the I11s may have picked up the A11s and the A8s after they came out of the east. And perhaps the A12s.I11s etc went off back to the west while the I15s, G17s and A30s went east. Hopefully today will sort out and confusion or whether this was a reasonable guess as to what happened. Time will tell but we won't be surprised by diffeent realities. Stand by!
13:33 PDT Orcas near mics.
The overall picture is a bit clearer thanks to two reports;Robson Bight Charters reported that the A12s were off Camp Point in the lower Johnstone Strait earlier this morning and Troy Bright reported hearing both Gs and As pass Black Bluff around 4:30am headed to the west. We still don't know if all the Gclan groups left the area. We certainly did not pick up any sounds off the top end of Blackfish during the night. Meanwhile, the A30s turned between Little Kaikash and Blinkhorn around 1pm and are now headed east past CP. Very nice calls regardless of the boat noise.
10:25 PDT Orcas near mics.
Earlier this morning the A30s came out of the east and went west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. After travelling a bit further the west (by the sounds) they may have crossed over closer to the Vancouver Island side and then back past the entrance of Blackney and into the Reserve. We heard them again briefly at the beaches and believe now they turned back to the wesy yet again and are currently somewhere in the Reserve. Yesterday, was an intyeresting day, especially after the A12s and the I11s entered the Strait. In total there were about 60 whales. Although it was difficult to track all their movements we think the A30s, I15s and G17s formed one large group that kept to the same general movements. The A12s and the I11s may have picked up the A11s and the A8s after they came out of the east. And perhaps the A12s.I11s etc went off back to the west while the I15s, G17s and A30s went east. Hopefully today will sort out and confusion or whether this was a reasonable guess as to what happened. Time will tell but we won't be surprised by diffeent realities. Stand by!
13:33 PDT Orcas near mics.
The overall picture is a bit clearer thanks to two reports;Robson Bight Charters reported that the A12s were off Camp Point in the lower Johnstone Strait earlier this morning and Troy Bright reported hearing both Gs and As pass Black Bluff around 4:30am headed to the west. We still don't know if all the Gclan groups left the area. We certainly did not pick up any sounds off the top end of Blackfish during the night. Meanwhile, the A30s turned between Little Kaikash and Blinkhorn around 1pm and are now headed east past CP. Very nice calls regardless of the boat noise.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
06 September Orcalab reports:
11:03 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Ok! So this is exciting. At some point in the night the G17s moved into the Strait. They found the I15s and the A30s and all three groups are off Kaikash Creek at the moment perhaps waiting for the A12s and the I11s who are off Donegal Head slowly coming into the area. Not sure if the A12s and the I11s will take Weynton Pass or come down by the Lab. The A30s, I15s and G17s are being very quiet and we have only heard a few I11 calls on the Flower Island system. The A36s are further west in Queen Charlotte Strait also headed east.
11:30 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Adding to today's mix, the A11s & A8s, are heading west past Adams River, on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, and could be approaching the Ecological Reserve in an hour or so. Meanwhile, the I15s, A30s & G17s have turnnd back to the east & are heading for Robson Bight, also close to Vancouver Island.
13:58 PDT Superb sounds!!
Despite the boat noise the day continues to be exciting. There about 60 orcas in the Strait at the moment. They are converging. The I11s and the A12s came in via Blackney (past the Lab). They were all mixed up together, playful and in a hurry. They passed CP (some close) and rushed off to the east and the rest of the waiting groups (the A11s, A8s, A30s, I15s and the G17s). The get together will probably happen offf of the Cliff and Robson Bight. It will be interesting to see how they pull it off.
15:17 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Whales have reached the Beaches.
16:53 PDT Superb sounds!!
The a11s have gone into the Main beach as well. The A30s were heard on Critical Point just before this.
11:03 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Ok! So this is exciting. At some point in the night the G17s moved into the Strait. They found the I15s and the A30s and all three groups are off Kaikash Creek at the moment perhaps waiting for the A12s and the I11s who are off Donegal Head slowly coming into the area. Not sure if the A12s and the I11s will take Weynton Pass or come down by the Lab. The A30s, I15s and G17s are being very quiet and we have only heard a few I11 calls on the Flower Island system. The A36s are further west in Queen Charlotte Strait also headed east.
11:30 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Adding to today's mix, the A11s & A8s, are heading west past Adams River, on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, and could be approaching the Ecological Reserve in an hour or so. Meanwhile, the I15s, A30s & G17s have turnnd back to the east & are heading for Robson Bight, also close to Vancouver Island.
13:58 PDT Superb sounds!!
Despite the boat noise the day continues to be exciting. There about 60 orcas in the Strait at the moment. They are converging. The I11s and the A12s came in via Blackney (past the Lab). They were all mixed up together, playful and in a hurry. They passed CP (some close) and rushed off to the east and the rest of the waiting groups (the A11s, A8s, A30s, I15s and the G17s). The get together will probably happen offf of the Cliff and Robson Bight. It will be interesting to see how they pull it off.
15:17 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Whales have reached the Beaches.
16:53 PDT Superb sounds!!
The a11s have gone into the Main beach as well. The A30s were heard on Critical Point just before this.
Monday, September 05, 2005
08:08 PDT Distant calls audible.
The transients are still calling in Johnstone strait. Overnight: the resident orcas (the A11s, I15s, A8s and the A30s - in that order) headed east past the reserve. We last heard the A30s around 3:30am. We first heard the transients at 2:43am when they were in Blackfish Sound. They quickly moved to the Strait while the A30s enjoyed a rub before moving on to the east after the other resident groups.
Helena
05 Sep 2005 08:08:09 PDT
The transients are still calling in Johnstone strait. Overnight: the resident orcas (the A11s, I15s, A8s and the A30s - in that order) headed east past the reserve. We last heard the A30s around 3:30am. We first heard the transients at 2:43am when they were in Blackfish Sound. They quickly moved to the Strait while the A30s enjoyed a rub before moving on to the east after the other resident groups.
Helena
05 Sep 2005 08:08:09 PDT
Sunday, September 04, 2005
13:50 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
Another group of orcas, probably the A11s and A8s, is heading west in Johnstone Strait, some are approaching CP. Channel A. Meanwhile, the I15s are headed west from Blackney Pass, & the A30s are headed east from Blinkhorn.
16:18 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
it has been a very full afternoon with the A11s/A73 7 a8s coming up from "below" to join the I15s and the A30s. The A30s have blended with the A11s and the a8s west of CP and are now on their way over to join the I15s who are closer now to the Vancouver Island shore. The I15s had been close to CP before their move west and they were followed by the A11s & A8s soon after. The small humpback just went past CP.
19:30 PDT Distant calls audible.
The whales continue to be in the far western section of the Strait and so we are still hearing distant calls.
22:16 PDT Superb sounds!!
After moving west slowly in Johnstone Strait for most of the day, the whales turned to the east at about 7pm. The A11s are probably ahead and have passed CP with the A8s, A30s and I15s making their way to the east behind them under a beautiful star filled sky.
Another group of orcas, probably the A11s and A8s, is heading west in Johnstone Strait, some are approaching CP. Channel A. Meanwhile, the I15s are headed west from Blackney Pass, & the A30s are headed east from Blinkhorn.
16:18 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
it has been a very full afternoon with the A11s/A73 7 a8s coming up from "below" to join the I15s and the A30s. The A30s have blended with the A11s and the a8s west of CP and are now on their way over to join the I15s who are closer now to the Vancouver Island shore. The I15s had been close to CP before their move west and they were followed by the A11s & A8s soon after. The small humpback just went past CP.
19:30 PDT Distant calls audible.
The whales continue to be in the far western section of the Strait and so we are still hearing distant calls.
22:16 PDT Superb sounds!!
After moving west slowly in Johnstone Strait for most of the day, the whales turned to the east at about 7pm. The A11s are probably ahead and have passed CP with the A8s, A30s and I15s making their way to the east behind them under a beautiful star filled sky.
Friday, September 02, 2005
05:18 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
It sounds like the A11s & A8s have come back from the east again & are with the A30s & I15s in Robson Bight again... we are listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone.
09:55 PDT Distant calls audible.
Good morning everyone! We're hearing distant calls from the I15s & A30s as they make their way to the west in Johnstone Strait. We're not sure what happened to the A4s & A5s after their brief appearance earlier this morning.
12:17 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
We have now been listening to A4 & I15 calls as well as the A30s.
16:16 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Time again to catch up: The A30s stayed forever off of CP while the I15s went off to the Rerserve with the A11s and the A8s. After their rub we heard the I15s,A4s and the A5s return to tthe Robson Bight area. The A30s left to the east and were last seen angling over towards Izumi.
18:22 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups are moving up the Vancouver Island shore to the west, the lead group is approaching Little Kaikash just past the Blackney Pass entrance.
19:10 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
As we suspected the whales have turned. Straitwatch confirmed this for us and apparently they turned just shy of Blinkhorn and began to angle towards CP.
21:17 PDT Orcas near mics.
it sounds like everyone (A11s,A8s,A73,A30s & I15s) have returned to the area off the Bight. There has already been one cruiseship pass through and perhaps another is on its way through Blackfish. In between is nice.
It sounds like the A11s & A8s have come back from the east again & are with the A30s & I15s in Robson Bight again... we are listening to them on the Critical Point hydrophone.
09:55 PDT Distant calls audible.
Good morning everyone! We're hearing distant calls from the I15s & A30s as they make their way to the west in Johnstone Strait. We're not sure what happened to the A4s & A5s after their brief appearance earlier this morning.
12:17 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
We have now been listening to A4 & I15 calls as well as the A30s.
16:16 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Time again to catch up: The A30s stayed forever off of CP while the I15s went off to the Rerserve with the A11s and the A8s. After their rub we heard the I15s,A4s and the A5s return to tthe Robson Bight area. The A30s left to the east and were last seen angling over towards Izumi.
18:22 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The groups are moving up the Vancouver Island shore to the west, the lead group is approaching Little Kaikash just past the Blackney Pass entrance.
19:10 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
As we suspected the whales have turned. Straitwatch confirmed this for us and apparently they turned just shy of Blinkhorn and began to angle towards CP.
21:17 PDT Orcas near mics.
it sounds like everyone (A11s,A8s,A73,A30s & I15s) have returned to the area off the Bight. There has already been one cruiseship pass through and perhaps another is on its way through Blackfish. In between is nice.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
31 August Orcalab reports
10:12 PDT Distant calls audible.
We are hearing A4 calls on CRPT. the A11s who came back from the east last night, now going east to the bight. There are T18s off Big Bay too.
12:04 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
T18s and T143s are in front OF CP, A11s and A8s are rubbing
13:02 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A11s left Rubbing beach, came back to the Bight. The I15s are along VI side off Kaikash, going east. T18s and T143s are going east along to CI side.
15:22 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
After meeting up off Robson Bight the A11s,A8s and the I15s headed east. A few brushed past the beaches. The transients of earlier are a bit further east near Naka Creek. They are also east bound at the last report. The A30s are east bound in Blackfish Sound nearing Blackney Pass.
10:12 PDT Distant calls audible.
We are hearing A4 calls on CRPT. the A11s who came back from the east last night, now going east to the bight. There are T18s off Big Bay too.
12:04 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
T18s and T143s are in front OF CP, A11s and A8s are rubbing
13:02 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A11s left Rubbing beach, came back to the Bight. The I15s are along VI side off Kaikash, going east. T18s and T143s are going east along to CI side.
15:22 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
After meeting up off Robson Bight the A11s,A8s and the I15s headed east. A few brushed past the beaches. The transients of earlier are a bit further east near Naka Creek. They are also east bound at the last report. The A30s are east bound in Blackfish Sound nearing Blackney Pass.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
27 August Orcalab reports:
03:40 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
We think the A11s along with A73 & the A8s have come up from the east and joined the I15s, A30s and the A36s off Robson Bight and are now heading west toward CP.
04:48 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
The A30s have already come up to CP and have turned into Blackney Pass. We can hear their blows. Boat noise in the Strait has quietened the others (the A11s,A8s,A36s and I15s for now):
10:23 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s came back from Blackfish Sound via Blackney pass and re-entered the Strait shortly afterwards. they are now headed east. The I15s were quite close to critical just before this so they are not too far away in the Strait. Earlier this morning we lost track of the A4s and the A5s and the a36s and think they may have returned east from the Bight around 4:30am.
03:40 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
We think the A11s along with A73 & the A8s have come up from the east and joined the I15s, A30s and the A36s off Robson Bight and are now heading west toward CP.
04:48 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
The A30s have already come up to CP and have turned into Blackney Pass. We can hear their blows. Boat noise in the Strait has quietened the others (the A11s,A8s,A36s and I15s for now):
10:23 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s came back from Blackfish Sound via Blackney pass and re-entered the Strait shortly afterwards. they are now headed east. The I15s were quite close to critical just before this so they are not too far away in the Strait. Earlier this morning we lost track of the A4s and the A5s and the a36s and think they may have returned east from the Bight around 4:30am.
Friday, August 26, 2005
26 August Orcalab reports
15:02 PDT Distant calls audible.
The A30s are opposite the Bight mid strait. The I15s and the A36s are still together. They moved away from the Vancouver Island shore at Izumi and angled toward the "Pig Ranch" (east of the Sophia Islands). The A36s are apparently paying the I15s a lot of attention. All groups,for now, are continuing on aneastward trend, across and against the ebb flow. The A8s, A11s and A73 are still in the "lower "Johnstone Strait area.
15:02 PDT Distant calls audible.
The A30s are opposite the Bight mid strait. The I15s and the A36s are still together. They moved away from the Vancouver Island shore at Izumi and angled toward the "Pig Ranch" (east of the Sophia Islands). The A36s are apparently paying the I15s a lot of attention. All groups,for now, are continuing on aneastward trend, across and against the ebb flow. The A8s, A11s and A73 are still in the "lower "Johnstone Strait area.
Monday, August 22, 2005
22 August Orcalab reports
07:47 PDT Superb sounds!!
Good morning everyone! There is no fog this morning, and we've been listening to lovely calls from the A30s & I15s on the Critical Point hydrophone for hours. We think they are fairly close to Robson Bight, perhaps heading east, though we're not sure of their direction. The A11s & A8s were also in the Strait overnight, but we lost track of them around 2am.
07:47 PDT Superb sounds!!
Good morning everyone! There is no fog this morning, and we've been listening to lovely calls from the A30s & I15s on the Critical Point hydrophone for hours. We think they are fairly close to Robson Bight, perhaps heading east, though we're not sure of their direction. The A11s & A8s were also in the Strait overnight, but we lost track of them around 2am.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
21 August Orcalab reports:
14:15 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
To catch up: the A30s and the I15s continued east to the Reserve. The I15s had crossed between Big Bay and the eastern end of Hanson Island and moved over to the Vancouver island shore. The A30s moved into midstrait beforew each group headed into the reserve. Meanwhile, we heard A4 and A5 calls on Flower island and Local Left. It's probable that the A11s/A8s came through Blackney and crossed to Kaikash Creek. Since then the I15s turned out of the Reserve followed, now, by the A30s.
15:34 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The A30s are in front of CP. The I15s are off Little Kaikash. The A11s and the A8s are nearby as well.
19:10 PDT Superb sounds!!
The A11s and the A8s are heading east at Critical Point. The I15s are also going east along the Vancouver Island shore from Kaikash Beach, the A30s shouldn't be far behind.
22:53 PDT Distant calls audible.
Well the calls are getting louder on CP so maybe the whales are headed that way slowly. So far we have heard the A4s and A1s. There may have been an A5 call or two. What happened to the I15s? Lovely moon again high over Blackney.
14:15 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
To catch up: the A30s and the I15s continued east to the Reserve. The I15s had crossed between Big Bay and the eastern end of Hanson Island and moved over to the Vancouver island shore. The A30s moved into midstrait beforew each group headed into the reserve. Meanwhile, we heard A4 and A5 calls on Flower island and Local Left. It's probable that the A11s/A8s came through Blackney and crossed to Kaikash Creek. Since then the I15s turned out of the Reserve followed, now, by the A30s.
15:34 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The A30s are in front of CP. The I15s are off Little Kaikash. The A11s and the A8s are nearby as well.
19:10 PDT Superb sounds!!
The A11s and the A8s are heading east at Critical Point. The I15s are also going east along the Vancouver Island shore from Kaikash Beach, the A30s shouldn't be far behind.
22:53 PDT Distant calls audible.
Well the calls are getting louder on CP so maybe the whales are headed that way slowly. So far we have heard the A4s and A1s. There may have been an A5 call or two. What happened to the I15s? Lovely moon again high over Blackney.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
20 August Orcalab reports
12:21 PDT Orcas near mics.
Sounds like some of the groups are coming back from the east. We are listening to A30s and A4 calls on CRPT hydrophone.
13:38 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s, A11s, A8s and A73 are currently spread out in the Izumi area heading west but stopping to forage from time to time. The I15s are further back. We may not have mentioned but I41's dorsal fin has totally collapsed to the right. hopefully he is ok. he is 25 years old.
15:22 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A11s, A73 & the A8s are going west up the Hanson Island shore near Big Bay. A73 was with a group of dolphins for a while. Some A30s are way back east of Boat Bay We think perhaps A39 travelled west maybe as far as the CP area but ? let the others continue. Still pretty foggy.
16:46 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Just after 3pm A13 pulled the others over to the Vancouver Island shore from Big Bay after being surrounded by dolphins. The groups continued up to blinkhorn and beyon where they milled about for a while. We heard A30 calls off Critical Point about this same time. right now the A11s have apparently turned toward Weynton Pass from the Wastell Islands just east of Telegraph Cove.
19:47 PDT Distant calls audible.
We've been hearing distant calls from the A4s on the Flower Island hydrophone... sounds like the A11s & A8s have headed north through Weynton Pass. Meanwhile, the A30s are headed back to the east & are mid-strait, off the east end of Hanson Island
Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
12:21 PDT Orcas near mics.
Sounds like some of the groups are coming back from the east. We are listening to A30s and A4 calls on CRPT hydrophone.
13:38 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s, A11s, A8s and A73 are currently spread out in the Izumi area heading west but stopping to forage from time to time. The I15s are further back. We may not have mentioned but I41's dorsal fin has totally collapsed to the right. hopefully he is ok. he is 25 years old.
15:22 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A11s, A73 & the A8s are going west up the Hanson Island shore near Big Bay. A73 was with a group of dolphins for a while. Some A30s are way back east of Boat Bay We think perhaps A39 travelled west maybe as far as the CP area but ? let the others continue. Still pretty foggy.
16:46 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Just after 3pm A13 pulled the others over to the Vancouver Island shore from Big Bay after being surrounded by dolphins. The groups continued up to blinkhorn and beyon where they milled about for a while. We heard A30 calls off Critical Point about this same time. right now the A11s have apparently turned toward Weynton Pass from the Wastell Islands just east of Telegraph Cove.
19:47 PDT Distant calls audible.
We've been hearing distant calls from the A4s on the Flower Island hydrophone... sounds like the A11s & A8s have headed north through Weynton Pass. Meanwhile, the A30s are headed back to the east & are mid-strait, off the east end of Hanson Island
Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
Friday, August 19, 2005
19 August Orcalab reports
12:47 PDT Orcas near mics.
Despite the boat noise the A30s are sounding great in the Bight. They crossed from Boat Bay and are in the reserve now fishing. Reports from Robson Bight Charters via the Naiad: the a11s and the A8s are back in Nodales, the A36s are headed east from Hickey Point and the I15s are west bound at Camp Point. The t18s are in Chancellor Channel. fog is rolling back in but the sun keeps trying.
12:47 PDT Orcas near mics.
Despite the boat noise the A30s are sounding great in the Bight. They crossed from Boat Bay and are in the reserve now fishing. Reports from Robson Bight Charters via the Naiad: the a11s and the A8s are back in Nodales, the A36s are headed east from Hickey Point and the I15s are west bound at Camp Point. The t18s are in Chancellor Channel. fog is rolling back in but the sun keeps trying.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
16 August Orcalab reports:
02:59 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
the A12s and A4s are at the Beaches
09:19 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s with A12 and A33 in the lead led the A35s and the C10s into Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, other groups moved past CP and into the entrance of Blackney Pass. One group may be heading up the Hanson shore to the west, some might come into Blackney after the others.
10:52 PDT Distant calls audible.
here is a surprise. Around 10am Stubbs Island Whale Watching and the Bluefjord reported that the Bs popped up, unanounced, in the middle of Blackfish Sound! This was as the A12s/A35s/C10s moved westward through Blackfish. We think it is the A5s (A8s+) and A11s who are still in the Strait. Noone has seen the A30s and A36s this morning. Are they still to the east in Johnstone Strait?
11:22 PDT Distant calls audible.
The Bs just entered the Strait after travelling through Weynton Pass. The A8s and A11s are in the Bight. The A12s & the A35s are heading into Queen charlotte Strait. The C10s have disappeared.
12:10 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A11s sound like they are close to Critical Point in the Bight. The A8s should be with them. The Bs are moving steadily eastward and now can be heard on CP. The A12s & A35s are still in Queen Charlotte Strait.
13:32 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Some of the orcas have reached the Main rubbing beach.
14:11 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A8s are now rubbing, following the A4s & the Bs.
16:15 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
After A4s, Bs and A8s finished rubbing, the A36s suddenly showed up in the Bight. they are probably going to west, but very quiet now.
23:34 PDT No orcas present.
We've heard no calls so far this evening, and are not sure what happened to the A36s as they headed west in Johnstone Strait this afternoon. We think the A11s, A8s, & Bs all headed east after an intense rub, and that the A12s, A35s & C10s headed north into Queen Charlotte Strait. We are waiting.
02:59 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
the A12s and A4s are at the Beaches
09:19 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A12s with A12 and A33 in the lead led the A35s and the C10s into Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, other groups moved past CP and into the entrance of Blackney Pass. One group may be heading up the Hanson shore to the west, some might come into Blackney after the others.
10:52 PDT Distant calls audible.
here is a surprise. Around 10am Stubbs Island Whale Watching and the Bluefjord reported that the Bs popped up, unanounced, in the middle of Blackfish Sound! This was as the A12s/A35s/C10s moved westward through Blackfish. We think it is the A5s (A8s+) and A11s who are still in the Strait. Noone has seen the A30s and A36s this morning. Are they still to the east in Johnstone Strait?
11:22 PDT Distant calls audible.
The Bs just entered the Strait after travelling through Weynton Pass. The A8s and A11s are in the Bight. The A12s & the A35s are heading into Queen charlotte Strait. The C10s have disappeared.
12:10 PDT Orcas near mics.
The A11s sound like they are close to Critical Point in the Bight. The A8s should be with them. The Bs are moving steadily eastward and now can be heard on CP. The A12s & A35s are still in Queen Charlotte Strait.
13:32 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Some of the orcas have reached the Main rubbing beach.
14:11 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A8s are now rubbing, following the A4s & the Bs.
16:15 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
After A4s, Bs and A8s finished rubbing, the A36s suddenly showed up in the Bight. they are probably going to west, but very quiet now.
23:34 PDT No orcas present.
We've heard no calls so far this evening, and are not sure what happened to the A36s as they headed west in Johnstone Strait this afternoon. We think the A11s, A8s, & Bs all headed east after an intense rub, and that the A12s, A35s & C10s headed north into Queen Charlotte Strait. We are waiting.
Monday, August 15, 2005
15 August Orcalab reports
11:06 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
Oh Boy! It was very difficult to read the c10 calls and figure out what direction they ended up going. max flood was happening just when we stopped hearing their calls and logic would have them taking advantage of the tide to go east but we never heard the calls get very loud on the critical Point station. Meanwhile the a12s and the A4s have been seen in Queen Charlotte Strait. They are slowly east bound at Black Bluff. (Tuan/Seasmoke Whale Watching report).
18:48 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
We feel like we have been in suspended animation. The A12s and the A35s took forever to come out of Queen Charlotte Strait and into Blackfish Sound and through Blackney Pass. It was worth it! They were beautiful passing the lab. They are now on their way to Johnstone Strait and hopefully CP.
19:23 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s and A35s have passed CP now and crossed over to mid strait, they are making their way to the east slowly.
21:31 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
No calls but the whales are at the beaches.
23:02 PDT Distant calls audible.
So far we have been listening to A4s on Critical Point.
11:06 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
Oh Boy! It was very difficult to read the c10 calls and figure out what direction they ended up going. max flood was happening just when we stopped hearing their calls and logic would have them taking advantage of the tide to go east but we never heard the calls get very loud on the critical Point station. Meanwhile the a12s and the A4s have been seen in Queen Charlotte Strait. They are slowly east bound at Black Bluff. (Tuan/Seasmoke Whale Watching report).
18:48 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
We feel like we have been in suspended animation. The A12s and the A35s took forever to come out of Queen Charlotte Strait and into Blackfish Sound and through Blackney Pass. It was worth it! They were beautiful passing the lab. They are now on their way to Johnstone Strait and hopefully CP.
19:23 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s and A35s have passed CP now and crossed over to mid strait, they are making their way to the east slowly.
21:31 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
No calls but the whales are at the beaches.
23:02 PDT Distant calls audible.
So far we have been listening to A4s on Critical Point.
Sunday, August 14, 2005
14 August Orcalab reports
10:03 PDT No orcas present.
Another foggy morning here. We think the A12s continued up into Queen Charlotte Strait after passing through blackney pass at 4:30am. There has been a report of whales off Lizard Point milling. As of now there has been no identifications. Down to the east the A36s are off Kelsey Bay (Robson Bight Charters report). They are headed east with others yet to be identified. We thought that after the 1:30am rub the A30s, A4s, A5s, Cs and A36s went off to the east. The A5s we believe came up from the east to have the rub and encourage the others to follow them back to the east. We will keep you updated when the information comes in. meanwhile, we are waiting for the thick fog to lift and begin our day.
11:57 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The a12s have moved into the kelp bed just off Donegal Head. This is just out of range of the Flower Island hydrophone. We also heard a report (kayak group) of a group of 9 heading west along the vancouver Island shore from Naka Creek (also out of range). So.... it is all beginng to happen.
O12:42 PDT rcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales from the east have not yet gone into the beaches but they have approached the east end of the Reserve. We are filming, CH B.The A12s meanwhile are heading to the Strait via Weynton Pass.
Distant calls audible.
13:14 PDT The A12s have entered the Strait. Unidentified whales are still westbound through the Reserve.
14:06 PDT Orcas near mics.
Ah ha! It must have been the A4s coming up from the east. They just passed Critical Point very closely. The a12s are coming east along the Hanson Island shore at Big b|Bay. CP is watching them.
17:25 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s and the A4s, after reaching Blinkhorn, turned and crossed into mid strait. they are now drifting eastward. there is a small group of transients by Donegal Head moving west into Queen Charlotte Strait.
10:03 PDT No orcas present.
Another foggy morning here. We think the A12s continued up into Queen Charlotte Strait after passing through blackney pass at 4:30am. There has been a report of whales off Lizard Point milling. As of now there has been no identifications. Down to the east the A36s are off Kelsey Bay (Robson Bight Charters report). They are headed east with others yet to be identified. We thought that after the 1:30am rub the A30s, A4s, A5s, Cs and A36s went off to the east. The A5s we believe came up from the east to have the rub and encourage the others to follow them back to the east. We will keep you updated when the information comes in. meanwhile, we are waiting for the thick fog to lift and begin our day.
11:57 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The a12s have moved into the kelp bed just off Donegal Head. This is just out of range of the Flower Island hydrophone. We also heard a report (kayak group) of a group of 9 heading west along the vancouver Island shore from Naka Creek (also out of range). So.... it is all beginng to happen.
O12:42 PDT rcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales from the east have not yet gone into the beaches but they have approached the east end of the Reserve. We are filming, CH B.The A12s meanwhile are heading to the Strait via Weynton Pass.
Distant calls audible.
13:14 PDT The A12s have entered the Strait. Unidentified whales are still westbound through the Reserve.
14:06 PDT Orcas near mics.
Ah ha! It must have been the A4s coming up from the east. They just passed Critical Point very closely. The a12s are coming east along the Hanson Island shore at Big b|Bay. CP is watching them.
17:25 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A12s and the A4s, after reaching Blinkhorn, turned and crossed into mid strait. they are now drifting eastward. there is a small group of transients by Donegal Head moving west into Queen Charlotte Strait.
Saturday, August 13, 2005
13 August Orcalab reports
04:54 PDT Superb sounds!!
We are listening to the A12s who come back from the east.
06:10 PDT Distant calls audible.
the A12s and the A4s became quiet. now we are listening to the A36s, on CP hydrophone. Foggy morning.
08:17 PDT Distant calls audible.
We think we are getting the next wave of orcas coming up out of the east. We are now listening to the cs and possibly the A5s as well. The A36s,A11s and the A12s faded off to the west a short while ago. Very foggy this morning.
09:34 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s have arrived back in the Strait and have met up with the A12s,A4s,A36s and Cs. they are eastbound from the west end of Hanson Island. meanwhile the very big group of transients of the last couple of days just went through Blackney to blackfish Sound after passing CP.
10:01 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The whales have moved down the hanson shore and approaching the entrance to Blackney Pass. We may be filming soon.
11:30 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
It is certainly one of those days - very intense. The transients are continuing west from the west end of Blackfish Sound while the residents (the A36s, Cs (C10s,C6s), A4s (A11s at least) and A30s continue to move into the Reserve. The A12s turned back to the west at the Sophias and are moving towards CP once more.
17:46 PDT Distant calls audible.
all the groups have turned. Spread out, heading to the east.
19:16 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Old news by now- but the whales are having a lovely rub this evening. A30s first.
21:36 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
It is getting very dark at the beaches but the A36s and the C10s are very much there, taking their turn after the A4s and A30s. Perhaps they will go back and join in again.
22:27 PDT Distant calls audible.
Westbound? The night begins!
04:54 PDT Superb sounds!!
We are listening to the A12s who come back from the east.
06:10 PDT Distant calls audible.
the A12s and the A4s became quiet. now we are listening to the A36s, on CP hydrophone. Foggy morning.
08:17 PDT Distant calls audible.
We think we are getting the next wave of orcas coming up out of the east. We are now listening to the cs and possibly the A5s as well. The A36s,A11s and the A12s faded off to the west a short while ago. Very foggy this morning.
09:34 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The A30s have arrived back in the Strait and have met up with the A12s,A4s,A36s and Cs. they are eastbound from the west end of Hanson Island. meanwhile the very big group of transients of the last couple of days just went through Blackney to blackfish Sound after passing CP.
10:01 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The whales have moved down the hanson shore and approaching the entrance to Blackney Pass. We may be filming soon.
11:30 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
It is certainly one of those days - very intense. The transients are continuing west from the west end of Blackfish Sound while the residents (the A36s, Cs (C10s,C6s), A4s (A11s at least) and A30s continue to move into the Reserve. The A12s turned back to the west at the Sophias and are moving towards CP once more.
17:46 PDT Distant calls audible.
all the groups have turned. Spread out, heading to the east.
19:16 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Old news by now- but the whales are having a lovely rub this evening. A30s first.
21:36 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
It is getting very dark at the beaches but the A36s and the C10s are very much there, taking their turn after the A4s and A30s. Perhaps they will go back and join in again.
22:27 PDT Distant calls audible.
Westbound? The night begins!
Friday, August 12, 2005
12 August Oraclab reports
09:55 PDT No orcas present.
Rather a late start this morning. But it was quiet through the night. There are still whales to the east (most likely the A4s/A5s/C10s and A12s). There is no further word on the Rs or the transients of yesterday. Calm day and we will see what unfolds.
11:43 PDT No orcas present.
Everyone in the western Johnstone Strait is happily watching various humpbacks in different locales. There are 3 in Blackney Pass at the moment. Meanwhile,the C10s are far to the east,at Camp Point, while the A12s are travelling with the A4s and A5s in Nodales Channel which is not too far from the Cs.
15:58 PDT No orcas present.
Over the afternoon there have been a few developments: a group of orcas may be nearing the Eve River on their way to the west. This may be the C10s who were reported earlier going west from Camp Point. The a36s apparently turned up in Nodales! We lost track of them days ago and they must have gone east and not out to the west as first guessed. The other surprise is that there have been persistent reports of the A12s off Campbell River. Earlier it was reported that they and the A4s and A5s were in Nodales.The latest report has them and the A11s heading north through Seymour Narrows (north of Campbell River).
09:55 PDT No orcas present.
Rather a late start this morning. But it was quiet through the night. There are still whales to the east (most likely the A4s/A5s/C10s and A12s). There is no further word on the Rs or the transients of yesterday. Calm day and we will see what unfolds.
11:43 PDT No orcas present.
Everyone in the western Johnstone Strait is happily watching various humpbacks in different locales. There are 3 in Blackney Pass at the moment. Meanwhile,the C10s are far to the east,at Camp Point, while the A12s are travelling with the A4s and A5s in Nodales Channel which is not too far from the Cs.
15:58 PDT No orcas present.
Over the afternoon there have been a few developments: a group of orcas may be nearing the Eve River on their way to the west. This may be the C10s who were reported earlier going west from Camp Point. The a36s apparently turned up in Nodales! We lost track of them days ago and they must have gone east and not out to the west as first guessed. The other surprise is that there have been persistent reports of the A12s off Campbell River. Earlier it was reported that they and the A4s and A5s were in Nodales.The latest report has them and the A11s heading north through Seymour Narrows (north of Campbell River).
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
10 August Orcalab reports
16:40 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
Lots happening! the A12s turned off big bay and are now headed across to the Vancouver Island shore. A group of transient orcas have come out of Knight Inlet and are headed toward Donegal Head. And finally, the very BIG group which was seen earlier in the day is still far to the west of the "core area". Some of the groups have broken off and moved away while another group remains off the Port Hardy airport and is still eastbound. There is not yet a complete description of who has been positively sighted but it may include A4s, A5s along with Cs.
21:29 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
If you are watching Channel A you will have realised that a silent group came through Blackney and are passing CP. For us at the Lab the whales were on the far side in fading light but we think that the A4s and A5s were in the two groups which passed. While they were entering the last part of Blackney, just before entering the Strait, we began to hear R clan calls on Flower Island. There is currently a large boat in Blackfish which is drowning the calls. This could soon be very exciting!
21:58 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The Rs, who are very vocal are still in Blackfish Sound, close to the Flower Island hydrophone. Ahead of them, the C10s, A5s, &A4s are already in Johnstone Strait, heading east.
22:53 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Everyone is momentarily quiet BUT the Rs are negotiating the last part of Blackney while the A12s,A4s, A5s and Cs are passing Critical Point. Strange how they all fell silent at the same time!
16:40 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
Lots happening! the A12s turned off big bay and are now headed across to the Vancouver Island shore. A group of transient orcas have come out of Knight Inlet and are headed toward Donegal Head. And finally, the very BIG group which was seen earlier in the day is still far to the west of the "core area". Some of the groups have broken off and moved away while another group remains off the Port Hardy airport and is still eastbound. There is not yet a complete description of who has been positively sighted but it may include A4s, A5s along with Cs.
21:29 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
If you are watching Channel A you will have realised that a silent group came through Blackney and are passing CP. For us at the Lab the whales were on the far side in fading light but we think that the A4s and A5s were in the two groups which passed. While they were entering the last part of Blackney, just before entering the Strait, we began to hear R clan calls on Flower Island. There is currently a large boat in Blackfish which is drowning the calls. This could soon be very exciting!
21:58 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
The Rs, who are very vocal are still in Blackfish Sound, close to the Flower Island hydrophone. Ahead of them, the C10s, A5s, &A4s are already in Johnstone Strait, heading east.
22:53 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.
Everyone is momentarily quiet BUT the Rs are negotiating the last part of Blackney while the A12s,A4s, A5s and Cs are passing Critical Point. Strange how they all fell silent at the same time!
Sunday, July 31, 2005
31 July Orcalab reports
09:52 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
Some of the A4s are in Blackney Pass, heading towards Johnstone Strait. It is foggy, so we can't see them.
10:34 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The A4s have reached Johnstone Strait. We're hearing them on the CP hydrophone, & they may be visible in the fog on Channel A.
11:41 PDT Orcas near mics.
It sounds like the A4s have reached Robson Bight - we've been listening to their calls close to the Critical Point hydrophone. Soon, if they continue east, they may arrive at the rubbing beaches.
11:52 PDT Superb sounds!!
The A4s, including Springer, are very close to the Critical Point hydrophone.
12:33 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A4s may have reached the Beaches.
13:07 PDT Orcas near mics.
There were a few strong calls and ech location back in the Bight so perhaps the whales have turned back to the west.
15:22 PDT Superb sounds!!
Some of the A4s passed CP, slowly going west, the A11s were closest to us, but the wet conditions making it difficult to follow them.
15:40 PDT Distant calls audible.
The A4s came back to the west, passed CP and crossed the entrance of Blackney Pass and carried on to the west parallel to Hanson Island.
18:44 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A11s and maybe the C10s (we are not sure) turned around at Big Bay and crossed over to mid strait before travelling very slowly to the east.
23:43 PDT No orcas present.
Good evening! We have been caught up with various things tonight . We had a surprise visit from the A30s at dusk. The A30s had not been seen in the western Johnstone Strait all day. They were silent as they passed and in a BIG hurry. We had been expecting the A11s because they were reported coming in and so you can imagine our surprise. The A11s must have fallen behind the A30s because not long after the A30s had cleared we heard them on Flower Island.
09:52 PDT Orcas approaching Orcalab.
Some of the A4s are in Blackney Pass, heading towards Johnstone Strait. It is foggy, so we can't see them.
10:34 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.
The A4s have reached Johnstone Strait. We're hearing them on the CP hydrophone, & they may be visible in the fog on Channel A.
11:41 PDT Orcas near mics.
It sounds like the A4s have reached Robson Bight - we've been listening to their calls close to the Critical Point hydrophone. Soon, if they continue east, they may arrive at the rubbing beaches.
11:52 PDT Superb sounds!!
The A4s, including Springer, are very close to the Critical Point hydrophone.
12:33 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A4s may have reached the Beaches.
13:07 PDT Orcas near mics.
There were a few strong calls and ech location back in the Bight so perhaps the whales have turned back to the west.
15:22 PDT Superb sounds!!
Some of the A4s passed CP, slowly going west, the A11s were closest to us, but the wet conditions making it difficult to follow them.
15:40 PDT Distant calls audible.
The A4s came back to the west, passed CP and crossed the entrance of Blackney Pass and carried on to the west parallel to Hanson Island.
18:44 PDT No calls but orcas nearby
The A11s and maybe the C10s (we are not sure) turned around at Big Bay and crossed over to mid strait before travelling very slowly to the east.
23:43 PDT No orcas present.
Good evening! We have been caught up with various things tonight . We had a surprise visit from the A30s at dusk. The A30s had not been seen in the western Johnstone Strait all day. They were silent as they passed and in a BIG hurry. We had been expecting the A11s because they were reported coming in and so you can imagine our surprise. The A11s must have fallen behind the A30s because not long after the A30s had cleared we heard them on Flower Island.
Thursday, July 28, 2005
28 July Orcalab reports
03:06 PDT Distant calls audible. The whales didn't go far away. We are listening to the A4s and A5s in Blackfish Sound.
08:35 PDT No orcas present. Good morning everyone! We were hearing distant "A" calls on the Flower Island hydrophone until around 4am, and nothing since (except boat noise). We think the groups that headed north through Blackney Pass late last evening (A11s, A8s, probably A12s) continued to the west, as did the A36s (probably), though we're not completely sure. We think some A5s & A4s, along with the C6s, are still to the east in Johnstone Strait. It's another foggy morning here, & we are waiting.
12:26 PDT No orcas present. Again we are in the middle with activity to the west and east of us. There are reports of the groups which went through last night far to the west nearing Port Hardy while there is still at least one group to the east. It is still unclear who is where. We never did hear the C6s return and wonder if there is still A5s in the eastern regions. All the A4s may now be to the west with at least the A8s & A36s. We will know soon if the A12s followed everyone west or stayed in the Strait. Lots of humpbacks not too far away.
17:52 PDT No orcas present. The Naiad Explorer (MacKay Whale Watching) reported that they left the A36s, A12s,A24s,A11s,A73 near the Jeanette Islands (Queen Charlotte Strait). They were still west bound and still moving quite fast. No reports from the east.
03:06 PDT Distant calls audible. The whales didn't go far away. We are listening to the A4s and A5s in Blackfish Sound.
08:35 PDT No orcas present. Good morning everyone! We were hearing distant "A" calls on the Flower Island hydrophone until around 4am, and nothing since (except boat noise). We think the groups that headed north through Blackney Pass late last evening (A11s, A8s, probably A12s) continued to the west, as did the A36s (probably), though we're not completely sure. We think some A5s & A4s, along with the C6s, are still to the east in Johnstone Strait. It's another foggy morning here, & we are waiting.
12:26 PDT No orcas present. Again we are in the middle with activity to the west and east of us. There are reports of the groups which went through last night far to the west nearing Port Hardy while there is still at least one group to the east. It is still unclear who is where. We never did hear the C6s return and wonder if there is still A5s in the eastern regions. All the A4s may now be to the west with at least the A8s & A36s. We will know soon if the A12s followed everyone west or stayed in the Strait. Lots of humpbacks not too far away.
17:52 PDT No orcas present. The Naiad Explorer (MacKay Whale Watching) reported that they left the A36s, A12s,A24s,A11s,A73 near the Jeanette Islands (Queen Charlotte Strait). They were still west bound and still moving quite fast. No reports from the east.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
27 July Orcalab reports:
20:50 PDT Distant calls audible. We're now hearing distant calls from the A12s on the Critical Point hydrophone... sounds like they have entered the Strait via Weynton Pass. Meanwhile, the A36s are taking their time coming down Blackfish Sound, and we have just heard the sounds of rubbing at the beaches!
21:37 PDT Orcas hunting fish. We've been listening to echolocation close to the Critical Point hydrophone. It's probably coming from the orcas that we heard briefly at the rubbing beaches about half an hour ago. Probably, they are one (or more) of the groups that have been in eastern Johnstone Strait over the past few days, though we're not sure. Meanwhile, the A36s are still in Blackfish Sound, & the A12s are eastbound in Johnstone Strait.
22:10 PDT Multiple pod calls audible. We're now listening to A4, A5, & A12 calls on the CrPt hydrophone, so it seems that at least some of the A4s & A5s have returned from the east & met up with the A12s! The A36s are still in Blackfish Sound.
22:37 PDT Multiple pod calls audible. The A4s & A5s, followed by the A12s, are heading north through Blackney Pass on the slack tide.
20:50 PDT Distant calls audible. We're now hearing distant calls from the A12s on the Critical Point hydrophone... sounds like they have entered the Strait via Weynton Pass. Meanwhile, the A36s are taking their time coming down Blackfish Sound, and we have just heard the sounds of rubbing at the beaches!
21:37 PDT Orcas hunting fish. We've been listening to echolocation close to the Critical Point hydrophone. It's probably coming from the orcas that we heard briefly at the rubbing beaches about half an hour ago. Probably, they are one (or more) of the groups that have been in eastern Johnstone Strait over the past few days, though we're not sure. Meanwhile, the A36s are still in Blackfish Sound, & the A12s are eastbound in Johnstone Strait.
22:10 PDT Multiple pod calls audible. We're now listening to A4, A5, & A12 calls on the CrPt hydrophone, so it seems that at least some of the A4s & A5s have returned from the east & met up with the A12s! The A36s are still in Blackfish Sound.
22:37 PDT Multiple pod calls audible. The A4s & A5s, followed by the A12s, are heading north through Blackney Pass on the slack tide.
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
26 July Orcalab reports:
10:16 PDT No orcas present. Le Caique (Robson Bight Charters out of Kelsey Bay) reported this morning that the whales: probably all of last night's groups; the A12s,A30s,A4s,A43s,A25s & C6s + the A36s and A8s, are quite far to the east in the lower eastern portion of Johnstone Strait and still eastbound.
11:20 PDT No orcas present.The Naiad Explorer (MacKay Whale Watching) reports that there is a group heading west a few miles east of th Ecological Reserve.
11:21 PDT No orcas present.The Naiad now reports that it is the A30s and quite a few others nearing Forward Bay.
12:54 PDT We are listening the A30s and A4s who came back from the east.
13:30 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.The A30s and A4s are now off CP.
16:44 PDT Distant calls audible.The whales have gone to the north through Weynton pass. They are slowly coming down to Blackney with flooding tide. We are hearing the A30 calls on FI.
20:10 PDT Distant calls audible.We have been hearing the A30s in Blackfish Sound from time to time. They never did come back down through Blackney on the tide.Instead they probably met up with the A35s (and perhaps the A24s as well) after they came through Weynton Pass. The A30s,according to the Lukwa,were off Bold Head and then moved west to Donegal where the young ones from all the groups became involved in a lot of play. One can just imagine the lovely evening scene.
10:16 PDT No orcas present. Le Caique (Robson Bight Charters out of Kelsey Bay) reported this morning that the whales: probably all of last night's groups; the A12s,A30s,A4s,A43s,A25s & C6s + the A36s and A8s, are quite far to the east in the lower eastern portion of Johnstone Strait and still eastbound.
11:20 PDT No orcas present.The Naiad Explorer (MacKay Whale Watching) reports that there is a group heading west a few miles east of th Ecological Reserve.
11:21 PDT No orcas present.The Naiad now reports that it is the A30s and quite a few others nearing Forward Bay.
12:54 PDT We are listening the A30s and A4s who came back from the east.
13:30 PDT Orcas (may be) approaching cameras.The A30s and A4s are now off CP.
16:44 PDT Distant calls audible.The whales have gone to the north through Weynton pass. They are slowly coming down to Blackney with flooding tide. We are hearing the A30 calls on FI.
20:10 PDT Distant calls audible.We have been hearing the A30s in Blackfish Sound from time to time. They never did come back down through Blackney on the tide.Instead they probably met up with the A35s (and perhaps the A24s as well) after they came through Weynton Pass. The A30s,according to the Lukwa,were off Bold Head and then moved west to Donegal where the young ones from all the groups became involved in a lot of play. One can just imagine the lovely evening scene.
Monday, July 25, 2005
25 July Orcalab reports
20:01 PDT Distant calls audible.We have heard from the A30s on Flower Island! The A12s seem to be finished their rub.
20:32 PDT Multiple pod calls audible. And the A4s as well.
21:18 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.The A30s, A11s, A23s, & others, are about to enter Johnstone Strait. We're listening to them on the Parson Island hydrophone & they should be visible from CP soon.
22:13 PDT Multiple pod calls audible.The A11s, A35s,A24s, A25s, probably the A43s, A30s and the C6s have joined the A12s in the Strait.
23:14 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.The whales have gone into the Beaches.
Thursday, July 21, 2005
21 July Orcalab reports
12:10 PDT No calls but orcas nearbyThe A12s continued to the east, past the Ecological Reserve, and have met up with the A36s, who were travelling west, around Eve River. The A5s (A42s) along with an A4 group (possibly A11s) are further behind, also eastbound.
19:00 PDT No orcas present.The news from the whale watch boats is that the whales continued to the far east.
12:10 PDT No calls but orcas nearbyThe A12s continued to the east, past the Ecological Reserve, and have met up with the A36s, who were travelling west, around Eve River. The A5s (A42s) along with an A4 group (possibly A11s) are further behind, also eastbound.
19:00 PDT No orcas present.The news from the whale watch boats is that the whales continued to the far east.
Saturday, July 16, 2005
Friday, July 15, 2005
Thursday, July 14, 2005
14 July Orcalab reports
16:48 PDT Superb sounds!! We are listening to the A30s and A4 calls on the CP hydraphone. Unfortunately they are right on the VI shore and so we are unable to see them clearly, perhaps they will come closer next time. They are heading East.
18:28 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom. The groups who passed us earlier are now rubbing in the reserve. Our camera is not running yet but will be shortly.
16:48 PDT Superb sounds!! We are listening to the A30s and A4 calls on the CP hydraphone. Unfortunately they are right on the VI shore and so we are unable to see them clearly, perhaps they will come closer next time. They are heading East.
18:28 PDT Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom. The groups who passed us earlier are now rubbing in the reserve. Our camera is not running yet but will be shortly.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
No orcas present.
It has been very quiet this morning. However, a group of orcas went past the Sophia Islands early this morning and a sailboat at 9:15 am saw whales heading east quickly near Broken Islands (central/east Johnstone Strait).
Helena
12 Jul 2005 10:50:21 PDT
Orcalab
No orcas present.
It turned out that the A12s,A11s and the A24s are the eastbound whales in the lower Johnstone Strait.
So it has remained quiet (and rather wet) in this part of the Strait.
Helena
12 Jul 2005 16:55:32 PDT
Orcalab
Monday, July 11, 2005
Orcas near mics.
We have been listening to the A4s in close to the Bight and wonder if the A11s have joined the A12s in the Strait. Earlier CP saw a large group heading east toward the Reserve area. The A5s and the A24s spent the day in the eastern part of the Strait and we are waiting to see if they too make it back up into this part of the Strait.
Helena
11 Jul 2005 18:55:54 PDT
Orcalab
Distant calls audible.
The whales have moved back to the west along Vancouver Island.
Helena
11 Jul 2005 21:05:10 PDT
Orcalab
We have been listening to the A4s in close to the Bight and wonder if the A11s have joined the A12s in the Strait. Earlier CP saw a large group heading east toward the Reserve area. The A5s and the A24s spent the day in the eastern part of the Strait and we are waiting to see if they too make it back up into this part of the Strait.
Helena
11 Jul 2005 18:55:54 PDT
Orcalab
Distant calls audible.
The whales have moved back to the west along Vancouver Island.
Helena
11 Jul 2005 21:05:10 PDT
Orcalab
Friday, July 01, 2005
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
The A12s,A4s and A5s are back! They swam past this morning and are in the Strait now. We first heard them just before 5am in Blackfish Sound. They are headd east toward the Reserve now.
Helena
22 Jun 2005 07:15:27 PDT
Orcalab
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales have gone in for a rub.
Helena
22 Jun 2005 08:40:01 PDT
Orcalab
Helena
22 Jun 2005 07:15:27 PDT
Orcalab
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The whales have gone in for a rub.
Helena
22 Jun 2005 08:40:01 PDT
Orcalab
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Later in the day we got another report of a group of Orcas heading south near Jesse Falls in Douglas Channel. The report said the group included no males and they saw a total of seven whales. This group turned out to be part of the A4s. They came down Whale Channel travelling close to the Princess Royal shoreline. We saw A52 and her calves for sure but don't have a positive ID on anybody else but think that we had all of the A35s. The whales went past Cetacealab and headed north along the west side of Gil Island.
Cetacealab
Cetacealab
Monday, February 21, 2005
We finally got to see some of the whales who have been around. This afternoon, the A11s (no A35s) with A73 headed west from the Bight toward Blinkhorn. A73 was travelling with A56 with A11 slightly ahead of the pair. A13 was travelling parallel to the others, across the Strait, closer to Cracroft Island. They were all moving fairly quickly up the Strait. We are still hearing calls from the Strait (7pm). They are possibly heading back to the east. A73 looks like she has grown. Helena & Paul
21 Feb 2005 19:04:14 PST
Orcalab
21 Feb 2005 19:04:14 PST
Orcalab
Friday, February 18, 2005
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
Good Day! We began hearing "A" calls, whistles and echo location near to Critical Point. We are assuming that the A4s of yesterday are returning from the east. We are waiting to here more descriptive calls before confirming this hunch. We also received a report of more whales near to Port Hardy. After the long quiet stretch it makes one wonder what is going on!
Helen & Paul
16 Feb 2005 12:49:13 PST
Orcalab
Helen & Paul
16 Feb 2005 12:49:13 PST
Orcalab
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
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