Arriving at the hotspot today we were very quickly greeted by orcas with multiple energetic and playful calves showing off an array of different behaviours as they interacted with each other and us.
For a good 30 minutes the calves spent far more time on the surface continuing these behaviours until finally moving on. At this point the day began to slow down. We were lucky to stick close to a few individuals, mostly mothers and their calves, as they arose from some longer dives, but for only a few breathes before disappearing again.
During this time, we were still brought to our feet as a Sunfish decided to briefly show itself, allowing a few to knock another off the bucket list. The day became a test of patience and so we began the journey home, though that didn’t last long as we were intercepted by an estimated 40 or more individuals surging at speed through the swells, surrounding us.
No matter where you looked they seemed to be in large numbers before splitting off into smaller familial pods and spreading off in all directions.
Whispers of a possible kill spread through the boat before it was confirmed when we saw Flapper, Wonks and Lil Machi sharing their meal just off the side of the vessel, almost as if they were showing off their prize.
An amazing way to end the day.
-Naturaliste Charters
This post was adapted from a blog, read the original here.
Photos by Dan Mantle, Sara Shimazu and Machi Yoshida Blog written by Marine Biologist intern, Aklie Braddock.
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