The first full day of our journey began with an earlier than expected wake up call. Despite the half hour of sleep lost, we all gladly awoke and congregated on the bow to be introduced to some of the most magnificent animals to be seen in the North Pacific, the majestic Orcas. With coffee and tea in hand, we were treated to an exceptional encounter with members of the “Southern Resident” killer whale community.
These fish eating specialists arrive each spring to take advantage of the plentiful Chinook salmon that return annually to their natal streams to spawn. Although the moniker “killer whale” often conjures images of ferocity, these tranquil animals spent the morning corralling the largest of the salmon species and feasting on just some of the 250 pounds of fish that they will consume each day.
They traveled just off the bow and to side of the Sea Lion. In the calm morning hours we were fortunate to not only get some close views, but also witness some amazing surface behaviors. Breaching, spy hopping, tail lobbing and body rolling were just some that we observed. These charismatic animals are the largest members of the dolphin family and long-term studies of the local populations have resulted in some amazing discoveries. Each of the killer whales has been individually identified and travels in matrilineal groups called pods. With up to four generations of offspring, the pods stay together and collectively raise the young. The mothers, aunts, uncles, and siblings pass on the traditions, vocal dialect, vocal repertoire, and even the culture that is indicative to each specific group of whales.
These remarkable animals are always sure to instill our appreciation of the natural world and all the beauty and diversity that surrounds us. I could not imagine a more appropriate way to begin not only our day but our entire journey up the inside passage towards Southeast Alaska.
