September 10, 2006

This morning 3 Transient Killer whales where spotted by one of our zodiac skippers. They were seen foraging by Race Rocks which at this time of year is covered with Stellar sea lions, California sea lions and Harbour seals with their 2 month old pups. We followed the Killer whales as they left Race to forage along the coast of Vancouver Island. After searching through the kelp beds for sometime, the whales found a Harbor seal pup to feast on for breakfast. While watching the Transients hunt, 9 Turkey vultures were spotted scavenging a meal along the beach. A Bald Eagle kept a watchful eye on the vultures in case they left any scraps behind.

The same Transients were around the same area this afternoon but out a little further from shore. When we arrived on scene they were still foraging as Killer whales need to eat approximately 200lbs of food everyday, so that Harbor pup from this morning would only have been a snack. We got some great examples of how long these animals can hold their breath. While we were waiting for the Transients to surface again some Dall’s porpoises were spotted off the bow moving at a very high speed, moments later just behind the porpoises the transients popped up. The three whales worked together to separate a porpoise from the rest of the group. A very exciting chase ensued as the Transients toyed with the porpoise until the final lunge. A visit to Race Rocks completed our trip with a look at some other Killer whale food, the seals and sea lions.