April 8, 2024 WS Report: Inland Puget Sound hosts a T party - in attendance includes T36As, T65As, T87, T99s, T100s, & T124As!; A plan to move T109A3A Kʷiisaḥiʔis in the works; Humpback off SJI!

April 8, 2024

PHOTO OF THE DAY

T99C Barakat breaches just off the shore of Point No Point.

photo by Hongming Zheng, April 1, 2024

ORCA NETWORK

WHALE SIGHTING REPORT

We are watching and visiting the whales in their home.

Please observe, love, and respect them from a distance.

View as Webpage

SUMMARY

Sightings through April 3 include:

Southern Residents - No reports.

Bigg's Killer Whales - On March 29, T99s & T124Ds were seen in Admiralty Inlet before hugging the east shore of Whidbey headed north!

On March 30, T99s & T124Ds were in north Puget Sound. Presumed T65As were in the Hood Canal and exited. T65A5 was spotted near Seattle! T36As, T63, T65, T100s, & T124As spotted near Denman Island, BC.

On March 31, T65A5 was spotted alone in Colvos Passage. T65As & T99s made their way south in Puget Sound - T65A5 joined them and was spotted with them when they passed Point Robinson! T30Bs & T117Bs were in the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

On April 1, a large group of Bigg's orcas made their way south through inland Puget Sound, including T36As, T65As, T87, T99s, T100s, & T124As. T137s were in the San Juans. T49As (minus T49A1 & T49A2) were in Active Pass.

On April 2, the large T party from the previous day, T36As, T65As, T87, T99s, T100s, & T124As, made their way north in Admiralty Inlet. T124Ds were spotted in Admiralty Inlet.

On April 3, T87 & T124As returned to inland Puget Sound. T63 & T65 were in the San Juans. T49As were also seen in the San Juans. T65Bs were in Spieden Channel.

In next report: On April 4, T87 & T124As were in Puget Sound. T65As & T99s were in Admiralty Inlet.

On April 5, T87 & T124As made their way through the San Juans - T87 split from the T124As in the afternoon. T18s were seen in the San Juans.

On April 6, T65As were in Hood Canal. T100s & T101s were in the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

On April 7, T65As were in Hood Canal. T65A5 & T124Ds were in Saratoga Passage.

On April 8, T65As were in central Puget Sound. T99s were also in central Puget Sound.

ID Note: All T124As present except for the T124A2s.

Humpbacks - A humpback has been seen in Haro Strait, spending time near shore at Lime Kiln State Park!

Gray Whales - CRC543 is back! There are eleven confirmed gray whales back inland Puget Sound: CRC22, CRC53, CRC56, CRC356, CRC383, CRC543, CRC2246, CRC2249, CRC2259, CRC2356, CRC2441.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Latest update on T109A3A Kʷiisaḥiʔis

Rescuers are working to save an orphaned orca calf stranded in a remote British Columbia lagoon by Sara Smart and Zoe Sottile, CNN, April 5, 2024

"Officials initially planned to transport the calf using a helicopter, but have pivoted to using a truck and boat to avoid stressing the animal. They hope to lure the calf into an area where they can move it onto a truck then drive the animal and place it on a boat, which will bring it into a net pod, Ehattesaht First Nation Chief Simon John said. The orca, which locals have named “Little Brave Hunter” or “Kʷiisaḥiʔis” in the Ehattesaht First Nation language and writing system, will then wait in that net pen until its family passes. It will hopefully be released and reunite with its relatives, John explained. The net pen is planned to be in Esperanza, southeast of Zeballos. Officials hope they can implement this plan within the next week. “It’s a huge effort and we have a long way to go,” Cottrell said. “We’re hoping for the best possible outcome.'" Read full article here.

Bay Cetology April 5 Update: "The approach this past week in Zeballos has primarily been to monitor Kʷiisaḥiʔis (T109A3A aka Brave Little Hunter) visually and acoustically while plans and preparations are made for the coming days. There have also been attempts to provision this little whale with food but it remains unclear if it has eaten anything. Kʷiisaḥiʔis is making long dives regularly exceeding aerobic dive limit, and calling in bouts every ten to fifteen minutes or so. This whale’s skin has just started to slough in sizable patches along the top of the head and base of the dorsal fin on each side perhaps due to the freshwater runoff into the lagoon it is in, however Kʷiisaḥiʔis remains robust showing no immediate signs of emaciation. In the coming days those of us on site will attempt to move Kʷiisaḥiʔis using various methods, but this will require a lot of patience as well as cooperation from the whale. We are also keeping track of other Bigg’s killer whales throughout the region through finwave.io as best as efforts allow." Link to Bay Cetology FB post.

WELCOME BACK GRAY WHALE CRC543!

On April 7, Bart Rulon, Puget Sound Express, confirmed the return of Sounder CRC543, spotted in Possession Sound, traveling with three other documented Sounders, CRC22 Earhart, CRC56 Stardust, & CRC383 Cascade! CRC543 makes the eleventh confirmed Sounder returned to inland Puget Sound, just in time for our Welcome the Whales festival & parade coming this weekend!

EVENTS:

WELCOME THE WHALES FESTIVAL & PARADE

SATURDAY APRIL 13 & SUNDAY APRIL 14

LANGLEY, WA ON WHIDBEY ISLAND

Each year, a small group of gray whales, affectionately known as The Sounders, detours from their main migration and returns to Puget Sound to feed on ghost shrimp. Our 2024 Welcome the Whales Festival honors these well-known and beloved whales with costume making, a critter parade, waterside ceremony, Langley beach clean-up, special presentation from Cascadia Research Collective, and a fundraising boat trip.

Schedule:

Saturday, April 13

11:00 - Costume Making at Langley United Methodist Church

1:30 - Staging for Parade

2:00 - Parade through downtown Langley. All are welcome to walk in the parade.*

2:30 - Waterside Ceremony at Seawall/Whale Bell Park after the parade

3:30 - Langley Beach Clean-Up

* No vehicles larger than golf carts permitted. Please contact cindy@orcanetwork.org for more information.

Sunday, April 14

12:00 - Reception and Presentation from Cascadia Research Collective (location TBA)

3:00 - Fundraising boat trip with Puget Sound Express, leaving from Langley Marina. More info and registration here.

New webshop item: Whale Sighting Alerts Subscription

Orca Network's Whale Sighting Network and Education Project is now offering our whale sightings phone/text alerts by annual subscription.

Cost is $25.00 every 12 months. If finances is a hardship please email alisa@orcanetwork.org.

Real-time, or near real-time, call/text alerts create opportunities for people to connect with and observe the whales in their natural habitat from shorelines and other platforms around the Salish Sea. And for those who wish to contribute to Community Science you can report your sightings to our Whale Sighting Network team who vets, records, and disperses collected data to researchers, scientists, agencies, educators, public, etc.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

SHOP & DONATE HERE

Your support enables Orca Network to continue our work to connect people & whales, educate & inspire people to take action, and collect & disseminate data for research & education.

With Gratitude!

Orca Network

FOR REAL-TIME WHALE SIGHTINGS FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE ~

BIGG'S KILLER WHALES (mammal-eating ecotype)

Wed, Apr 3 - San Juans (T63 & T65)

14:45 - North of Turn Point Lighthouse. Per Ellie Sawyer, this is T63 & T65.

Fred Horn [WSSJI]

Wed, Apr 3 - San Juans (T49As)

15:17 - T49As were the north group [located in the San Juans].

John Boyd [WSSJI]

Wed, Apr 3 - Spieden Channel (T65Bs)

15:17 - T65Bs headed north of Green Point.

John Boyd [WSSJI]

14:44 - Orca with many ww boats slowly west to east midway Spieden Channel. Per Ellie Sawyer, this is the T65Bs.

Edenonthe Salishsea [WSSJI]

Wed, Apr 3 - Haro Strait

13:30 - Multiple human detections of Bigg's killer whale calls on the Orcasound Lab hydrophone through substantial ship noise. Review the reports here.

Scott Veirs, Orcasound [WSSJI]

13:28 - Heard these on the Lime Kiln Hydrophone as well. Very clear starting at 13:28:44.

Fred Horn [WSSJI]

Wed, Apr 3 - San Juans

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Killer Whale (Orca) Sighting:

Sighting Time: Wed Apr 3 8:00:00 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 48.66052,-123.11638

Number Sighted: 2

Submitted Comments: Biggs?

Submitter Name: Pintail

Whale Alert App

Wed, Apr 3 - Puget Sound (T87 & T124As)

19:32 - They didn't go to Tyee. They went toward Des Moines, but Vashon side.

Kelly Wilson

19:09 - Three to four orcas passed Point Robinson northbound, spotted from near Des Moines Marina, too far away to ID.

David Valleau

19:04 - Orcas have crossed over to island side of mid channel, and have passed Point Robinson, evening sun bouncing off dorsals, steady northbound, loose group with Harbeson trailing by a tiny bit. Good night orcas.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

19:01 - Looks like the rounded Point Robinson passed the cable crossing on Luana Beach. Observed from Saltwater State Park.

Michael Scuderi

18:52 - Straight out from Point Robinson, mainland side of mid channel, headed northbound through the choppy sea. Very windy out here!

Marla Smith, Orca Network

18:47 - Off Point Robinson northbound.

photo by Cynthia Swensøn, April 3, 2024

18:19 - They are across the water there.

Tracey Carrillo

18:12 - At Point Robinson seen some breaching just north of Dash Point I watched them come up from Browns Point and once they got to Redondo then came directly to us at the lighthouse. It was amazing.

Matthew Lau

17:57 - Seen one off Dash Point far off though.

Tiffany Russell

17:48 - Seen breaching from Reconciliation Park off Browns Point.

Kyle Anderson

17:45 - Big male is approaching Dash Point mainland side but not close in headed north fast long down times.

Jami Cantrell

17:40 - Large male passing close to shore at Browns Point right now!

Mollie Segall

17:39 - Three passed Dash Point close I headed north with a few more out midchannel northbound.

Jami Cantrell

17:37 - Saw them from Dash Point!

Linda Emoto

17:37 - Right by Browns Point.

Eileen Mccaffery-Lent

17:36 - We saw breaches from Dash Point!

Linda Emoto

17:31 - Everyone is northbound, Harbeson is close to shore. Think they are coming up on Dash Point Park. From Dune.

Melissa Bird

17:20 - One moving slow east in Commencement [approx. 47.287043, -122.444716].

David Bennett

17:19 - Looking northeast from Dune Point area (market).

Heading north

Jim Schmaltz

17:19 - Commencement group coming up on Browns Point close to shore!

17:14 - Commencement group is off Tyee Marina, towards Tyee Marina/westbound.

17:08 - Look to have a few Northbound between Browns Point & Dash Point, not far off shore, second group deep in Commencement near Tyee Marina.

Melissa Bird

17:00 - I was at Ruston. I have followed this page for years. I hope every time I am down there that I will see orcas! Today it happened. I was thrilled beyond words!

Kristyn Purvis Dahl

16:59 - Spotted off Ruston.

photo by Mary Locke, April 3, 2024

16:57 - One east of ferry by Vashon shore.

Tiffany Russell

16:55 - Still have some deeper out crossing to Commencement & a group ahead of them entering Commencement. Commencement group has mom & calf & Harbeson, maybe one more.

Melissa Bird

16:54 - Regrouped and heading towards Commencement mid channel.

Mollie Segall

16:48 - Steady eastbound off Dune, this side of mid channel for four, two more further out closer Vashon side. From pass at Dune [video in FB comments].

Melissa Bird

17:01 - They just entered Commencement Bay - in front of Ruston waterfront, headed east.

16:38 - Directly north of Dune Park, mid channel, heading east.

Jim Evans

From Owen Beach today.

photo by Holly Fischer, April 3, 2024

From Owens earlier.

Jami Cantrell

16:38 - They are right in the ferry lane now. milling around a bit directionless.

Steve Blum

16:37 - At least four orcas heading east mid channel as seen from Dune Peninsula. Edit: more North east now.

Mollie Segall

16:37 - [approx. 47.318973, -122.512664].

Holly Fischer

16:31 - Approaching the ferry lane in about a half a mile.

Steve Blum

16:30 - I'm finally watching them at Owen Beach!

Holly Fischer

16:30 - Last I saw they were heading east angling to Vashon. Haven't seen them in a few.

David Bennett

16:26 - Eastbound along Point Defiance, Tacoma side.

Jami Cantrell

16:20 - Near tip of Point Defiance. Northeasterly.

Mark Goddard

16:15 - From Old Ferry Landing, Gig Harbor.

photo by Douglas Fraser Smith, April 3, 2024

16:15 - Close on the Salmon Beach side, hugging fairly tight northbound towards the tip of Point Defiance.

Zack Fowler

16:12 - Northbound nearing the turn on Point Defiance.

Steve Blum

15:49 - Northbound under the west tower of the Narrows Bridge.

Karen Caldwell

15:35 - Orcas went past Fox Island fishing pier five minutes ago. Heading north towards Narrows Bridge, closer to the Tacoma side of channel.

Pattie LaRue Warr

15:35 - Almost to Titlow. Five orcas including recent baby swimming north though University Place.

photo by AirWaterLand Photography, April 3, 2024

15:00 - They are still between Fox and McNeil moving slowly towards Steilacoom where I am viewing.

14:41 - Same place. Just saw them. Other side of Fox. Between Fox and McNeil.

Paul Davis

14:24 - I can see them with binoculars milling about here and a small boat WAY too close! [approx. 47.261021, -122.693515].

14:05 - I think so, there was a lone one off to the east of my home for a while then suddenly a large group appeared.

Laura Kozar Batanian

13:48 - Was seeing them at Chambers Bay milling and then trending into Carr. They deep dove and must have continued into Carr.

Candace Gavin

13:40 - Now [approx. 47.223740, -122.630765].

Laura Kozar Batanian

13:40 - Orcas are heading up the passage between Fox and McNeil.

Vicki Flood

13:20 - Here now [approx. 47.201925, -122.611982].

Laura Kozar Batanian

13:17 - Close to McNeil side. Milling.

13:14 - Southbound. Mid Channel - Closer to McNeil side.

13:08 - Still milling/eating and moving very slow in front of Chambers foot bridge.

Kevin M. Harris

13:09 - Should be at Steilacoom now.

photo by Brianna Aratin, April 3, 2024

13:06 - Spotted one near south end of Fox.

Paul Davis

13:04 - Off Chambers Bay, milling on Tacoma side of the buoy.

Melissa Bird

12:57 - Mid channel southbound at Chambers Bay.

Kevin M. Harris

12:57 - In front of Chambers Beach looking towards south end of Fox Island.

Jules Galante

12:55 - Lost sight of it. Mid channel near south end of Fox Island.

12:41 - Heading towards fishing pier on Fox Island.

Kathi Erickson

12:38 - Passing Fox Island pier Island side of mid channel, at least six.

Melissa Bird

12:32 - They appear to be approaching Fox Island fishing pier, close to that shore.

Kirsten Vacura

12:22 - Harbeson right off shore at Day Island. He big! Drifting south again.

12:20 - Reversal of direction at north end of Day Island. Beautiful spy hop & tail slaps, kind of milling.

12:17 - Continued southbound passing Day Island now.

Melissa Bird

12:15 - Multiple orcas visible just west of Titlow, small boat cutting through pod and following closely, circling their activity

James Rempt

12:15 - Just passed Titlow mid channel - can see distant from Titlow - by Day Island.

Elana Cashion

Milling just north of Day Island.

Kirsten Vacura

12:08 - Looks like headed through Hale Passage.

Peyton Koski

12:07 - Have passed Narrows Park, closer to Gig Harbor side now, southbound. Red sailboat trailing.

Melissa Bird

12:04 - Just saw large male from Narrows Marina near the small boat.

Ben Bird

12:03 - Point Fsdick close in a minute ago.

GK Silv

11:53 - Spotted on west side of the bridge. Tacoma side.

Brittany Hood

11:49 - Mid channel approaching bridge southbound.

Jill Clogston

11:45 - North of Narrows Bridge crossing to Gig Harbor side south movement.

Susan White

11:42 - Just north of the bridge now, more on the Tacoma side, southbound.

Melissa Bird

11:35 - Still southbound towards the bridge, closer to east side as small barge passes on west.

Peter Mo

11:35 - They are still north Narrows near the barge.

Heather Maher

11:27 - Heading towards the Narrows Bridge.

Laureen Claggett

11:16 - Headed south out of my view.

11:15 - South towards bridge. Midway in channel.

Jen Clark

11:15 - Southbound in Narrows.

11:10 - Spread out at Point Defiance.

David Michael

11:14 - I am viewing from Gig Harbor between Vashon Island and Point Defiance. I saw several that were near Vashon Island west of ferry but moving eastward about 15 minutes ago. And five minutes ago saw several very near tip of Point Defiance moving toward the beacon southward. I am unsure if it’s the same group.

11:08 - Several whales just off tip of Point Defiance, very near to the large boat that sped past and just cut engines.

Michele Riley Campbell

11:08 - Right in front of Gig Harbor now!

Jen Clark

11:06 - Might want to plan for Titlow, but they could always change course. Continuing southbound travel towards Narrows.

10:57 - Travel appears to be southbound towards the Narrows, still between Colvos and Narrows though.

Brooke Casanova

10:48 - Viewing from Owen, heading west. Straight out from the beach.

Kirsten Vacura

10:45 - They look like they are headed north to Colvos very close to Vashon.

Erin Pritchard

10:28 - April Basham reports Passing Ruston. Her photo shows T87! Plus about six others.

10:21 - Lobster Shop area.

Erin Keene

10:18 - Seeing three near the Lobster Shop exiting Commencement Bay, spread out. One male close in to Ruston side other two farther out.

April Basham

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Orca Sighting:

Sighting Time: Wed Apr 3 9:49:18 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 47.26704,-122.44198 [deep in Commencement Bay, near Foss]

Number Sighted: 6

Submitter Name: Matt Petke

Whale Alert App

Wed, Apr 3 - Puget Sound

09:55 - We have a report of Transient/Bigg's orcas near Point Robinson [Maury/Vashon] headed south.

Amy Carey, Sound Action

Tue, Apr 2 - Admiralty Inlet (T124Ds)

13:36 - The 124Ds are up there on the Whidbey side [off Fort Casey].

April Ryan, Maya’s Legacy

Tue, Apr 2 - Puget Sound (T36As, T65As, T87, T99s, T100s, T124As)

T99B Holly, T99 Bella, T99E

T65A3 Amira

Still a pretty good T-party off of Point No Point while out on the Puget Sound Express. Link to more photos.

photos by Cara Dana, April 2, 2024

T65A6 Callisto & T65A3 Amira

Amazing to see this many T's from Point No Point. Link to more photos.

photos by Eric Russell, April 2, 2024

Ran down to Lagoon Point to catch the trailers of the T party leaving Admiralty… they "should" have surfaced pretty close in, but choose to push out a bit and head northwest. Still lovely to see with lots of orca pals!

photos by Bonnie Gretz, April 2, 2024

From the Puget Sound Express out of Edmonds. The transient orcas were south of Point No Point when we saw them and the grays were up near Hat Island. Link to videos.

Jeff Christie

To recap: as the T party from the previous day headed north in Admiralty Inlet, they were spread across the channel: T124As were close to the Whidbey side; Most of the T65As & T99s were midchannel; T36As, T65A4, & T87 were close to Marrowstone Island.

Thank you to all that posted updates today. I had a short day so was able to finally meet up with the orcas at Bush Point then Lagoon Point. They weren't super close but I didn't care. What an exciting day for me.

Mel Nasby

15:11 - T065As (didn’t see A2) and the T099s heading out of Admiralty, almost abeam of Fort Ebey State Park. A3 was socializing with 99C when we saw them.

April Ryan, Maya’s Legacy

14:55 - Three tight together just about to cross the ferry lane at Fort Casey.

Bethani White

14:50 - Mid channel between Fort Worden and Fort Casey.

Rachel King

14:44 - Caught a glimpse mid-channel from Driftwood Beach… heading to Port Townsend or Fort Casey… long down times.

Janet Moody

14:35 - Bigger group approaching Point Wilson.

April Ryan, Maya’s Legacy

14:42 - Close pass at Marrowstone Point - six whales - headed towards Port Townsend.

14:28 - Now all circling the sea lion rock.

14:23 - Correction about four close to shore still at East Beach about.

14:21 - One very close to shore and one a few hundred meters out.

14:16 - Seeing blows just south of East Beach on Whidbey side - viewing from Marrowstone Point.

14:06 - Seeing some fins and blows mid channel between Bush Point and Marrowstone - closer to Whidbey.

Rebecca Berger

T87 Harbeson

T65A4 Ellifrit & T36A Leland

14:15 - One large group passed Flagler near mid-channel moving quickly and another group showed up 15 minutes later right on the beach for an incredible pass. All seem to be in travel mode heading for Port Townsend.

photos & IDs by Jim Pasola, April 2, 2024

14:04 - Approaching Lagoon Point - some northbound.

Bonnie Gretz

14:05 - Near Lagoon Point (?) now.

14:03 - North of Bush Point. Northbound and moving fast!

Julie Page

13:50 - Another matriline directly across the channel, maybe the 99s.

13:44 - At least six off Bush Point northbound.

April Ryan, Maya’s Legacy

13:25 - One group more midchannel further north, one group further east closer into Whidbey and south. All northbound.

13:15 - Northbound midchannel outer mid Mutiny Bay. Calm waters here.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

Had a nice pass from Hansville! T65As I think?

Kimberly Fritz

13:05 - Point No Point - they were quite far and crossed fast! I'm hoping they turn around.

Iravasa Athem

12:43 - I’m at Point No Point parking lot. They are way out across from here.

Irene Faso

[I] saw T65A2 and I believe T65A3 off of Point No Point mid channel a few hours ago.

Kimberly Fritz

Today I saw a fin or two at PNP. I consider the day to be successful because I spoke with a photographer on the shore and we discovered that we live three minutes apart at Seabeck. So, now we will carpool and try to “shoot” some of these whales. Happy hunting. Many blessings.

Irene Faso

12:37 - Off Norwegian Point approximately one mile, four female, one male.

Montlake Mutt

12:15 - Kim P called to report the large group of orcas are out front halfway between Eglon and Pilot Point moving northbound but in no hurry. Very close to Kitsap shore, and active. It’s very cool.

12:12 - Quickly northbound two miles south of Point No Point.

Trevor Tillman, PSE

12:05 - Sprays now visible from Point No Point with binoculars.

Eric Russell

11:52 - All those orcas are continuing northbound travels just east of the southbound shipping lanes out from near Eglon (sightline north of from Sunset Ave) Getting more difficult to see fins but just caught glimpse of males northbound.

11:35 - The orcas woke up! Breach fest south of Eglon as they continue northbound.

11:15 - Large group orcas still all grouped up, sightline north of Apple Tree Point, Kingston from Sunset Ave (north of Edmonds ferry) on far west side of the Sound. See map. Slow steady northbound. Exhalations and shiny bodies beautiful in lovely April morning sun.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

11:10 - Very slow northbound trend. Youngsters with a lot of surface activity. Very west side of shipping lane.

Sara Frey

11:02 - See them in Kingston now!

Iravasa Athem

10:58 - Friend texted from Kingston bound ferry that they killed the engine. She could see seven and at least one was a little baby.

Ashley Alecci Goninan

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Cara Dana

Date of Sighting: April 02, 2024

Time: 10:57 AM

Species seen: Biggs Orca

Number of animals seen: 14

Where seen: Near Point No Point

Direction of travel : N fast

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: Yes

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Multiple photos of the orcas at point no point I think this group is the T099s?

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

10:33 - A lot of orcas! Could be most if not all of yesterdays. Together but loosely in two groups. Slow steady post-meal northbound travels. Surfacing shallow. Blows sometimes barely visible. Edmonds up next.

10:20 - At least dozen if not upwards of 20 mid channel out from Kayu Kayu Ac, in Shoreline, northbound grouped.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

09:45 - Quite a few orcas maybe three miles south of the Spokane [Kingston to Edmonds ferry run]. Can't tell direction of travel though.

Trevor Tillman

09:05 - Quite a few out in front of Jefferson Head in Kingston. Looks like they are hunting. Possibly going south. A large male in the group.

Corrie Beamer Urquhart

Mon, Apr 1 - Active Pass (T49As minus T49A1 & T49A2)

19:15 - Members of the T049As (minus A1 and A2) transited eastward through Active Pass. They went quickly with the tide, accompanied by a colony of seagulls. Thanks to R.Hayden for ID. Photos taken from the shore of Galiano Island.

photos by Karoline Cullen, April 1, 2024

Mon, Apr 1 - Admiralty Inlet

14:00 - Saratoga just passed four more killer whales southbound in southbound lane off Marrowstone Point. Did not stop because of commercial traffic but definitely orca.

Christopher Lewman

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Lola Stepanski

Date of Sighting: April 01, 2024

Time: 9:55 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: North of Fort Casey campground

Direction of travel : N around the bend

Behaviors observed: Traveling splashing blowing

If orcas, any males?: Too far to tell, tall dorsal

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Exciting

Photos available?: No

Manage Submissions

08:00 - We saw six plus orcas in three groupings near Libbey Beach [Whidbey] traveling south.

Athena Martin

Mon, Apr 1 - San Juans (T137s)

T137D Wright, T137 Loon, T137B Tempest, T137A Jack

T137A Jack

Shortly after casting off with sails raised we spotted blows near Turn Island. We doubled back under sail as they approached Friday Harbor. At first there were two orca, siblings T137A and T137D, who stalled out to stalk sea lions just outside of the harbor. Suddenly there were four orca - the rest of the T137’s appeared out of nowhere. There were five sea lions hugging the shoreline keeping a close watch on the orcas while a bunch of people watched from the University of Washington Marine Labs. The orcas were taking long 9 minute dives as they were presumably planning an attack. After close to 45 minutes the orcas decided to move on returning to Upright Channel. We sailed alongside as the orcas rested traveling very slowly. It was tough to leave them as it was so peaceful and beautiful drift sailing with the orcas and so special being the only vessel there! We left the orcas as they were approaching Upright Head, Lopez Island.

David and Barbara Howitt

photos by All Aboard Sailing, April 1, 2024

16:30 - They veered instead to go north up Upright Channel.

15:20 - Now southbound in San Juan Channel.

14:50 - T137s milling off the Friday Harbor Labs.

14:00 - T137A and D northbound past Friday Harbor.

13:45 - Milling near Turn Island.

13:15 - Orcas southbound south end of Upright Channel.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

Mon, Apr 1 - Puget Sound (T36As, T65As, T87, T99s, T100s, T124As)

T36A Leland, T65A4 Ellifrit, T36A1 Tierna

April Fool’s day was definitely no joke this year! We had an extraordinary experience watching a large Bigg’s killer whale superpod here in Puget Sound. When we first spotted the orcas from a distance off Mutiny Bay that day on the M.V. Swiftsure we could see lots of surface action and some of the orcas were speed swimming, porpoising out of the water, in our direction. At first we thought they might be hunting a fast-moving prey animal like a porpoise or a minke whale, but then after we saw just how many dorsal fins were coming up to the surface it became evident that these killer whales were probably just socializing and having fun with each other. There were members of T36A pod, T65A pod, T99 pod, T124A pod, and T87 all swimming together in this amazing group. This superpod was likely 20-25 orcas strong, and when they gather in a group this large socializing tends to take center stage as the families intermingle. At one point in the beginning T65A4 (Ellifrit), T36A1 (Tierna) and T36A (Leland) appeared to be racing each other. Watching those three killer whales explode out of the water and go completely airborne in the process was jaw-dropping! It is amazing the amount of power, speed, and beauty these animals can possess, but yet moments later we would watch their gentle, social and caring side. After the racing was over and they slowed down we had a rare chance to see these orcas stop and intermingle with each other. One subpod of orcas even turned completely around to join with another subpod trailing behind them. This seemed like the perfect time to put the hydrophone down into the water and we could hear all the whistles, and squeaks of multiple conversations going on at the same time. This is the kind of behavior we frequently saw in the 1990s and early 2000s when J, K and L pod would gather together in their iconic greeting ceremonies after having not seen each other for a long time. It’s hard to put into words how unique, special, and awe-inspiring it was to be able to witness these Bigg’s killer whales socialize with each other at such a high level like this, and you could just feel the happiness oozing out of the water at the same time! Here are a few of my favorite photos from this unforgettable experience. Link to more photos.

photos by Bart Rulon Wildlife, April 1, 2024

From Norwegian Point County Park and Point No Point, with an awesome background of Cascade Mountains. Link to more photos.

photo by Hongming Zheng, April 1, 2024

T36A Leland

What a day on Puget Sound Express! I caught this series of orcas porpoising - link to more photos.

A superpod of transient orcas in what seemed like a family union. I imagined cousins getting together. Link to more photos.

photos by Kyle Anderson, April 1, 2024-

A friend took this one at Point No Point.

photo by Tami Tangen Bowen, April 1, 2024

Part of the T-party heading south, taken from shore at Norwegian Point and Eglon Boat Launch. So much activity! Joy to behold this frolicking group - am excited to share and see photos from this encounter! Link to more photos.

photos by Deanna Deery-Schmitt, April 1, 2024

It was a beautiful April Fool's Day and a great start to April as several pods of Bigg's transient orcas came together for a "T-party" in the north Puget Sound area. Link to more photos.

photos by Mike Maddox, April 1, 2024

What can I say about yesterday April Fool’s? It was no joke! 20 plus transient killer whales from multiple family groups. Including 36As, 65As, 99s, 100s, and the 124As and lastly T87 Harbeson. Here are just a few of the breaches from Point No Point as they passed southbound. What a magical sight it truly was. You could feel the energy travel across the water from the socializing that was taking place. What a beautiful day with whales and friends. T99C breached three times off the point. Amazing. Link to more photos.

photos by April Janice Basham, April 1, 2024

At 18:50 & 18:51 south side Alki Point. About half of the supersize assemblage of Bigg’s Transients who occupied the inland waters of Puget Sound today. The other half passed by well on the other side of the Sound about an hour behind these lovelies. Just a cell phone video, but was a really nice pass as they rounded the point backdropped by the Olympics and the sounds of their exhalations which lit up glistening in the golden sun. Tomorrow should be interesting. Link to videos.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

Video earlier this afternoon from the Swiftsure. My first time and it did not disappoint! Huge T-party. Link to video.

Laura Crockett

Sharing a short video compilation of the "T-Party" of transient orcas near Hansville, WA and Point No Point lighthouse. Link to video.

Mike Maddox

19:55 - Believe a second male who is leading the described larger trailing groups from my 19:40 update. Lead male was passing in front of Tillicum village (sightline from south of Emma Schmitz viewpoint) at 19:53. A few minutes later the other groups surfaced off the north end Blake (sightline). They are all slow steady southbound west side of channel. Last update from me.

19:40 - I see the other half of the overall larger group. This trailing group is at least a dozen or more orcas in two groups between south Bainbridge and Blake Island, on far west side of channel. Lead group (of this trailing group) has about six with male tagging behind them and second group of five to six behind him a short distance. Lots of females and juvies in each group. Slow steady southbound.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

19:41 - About six orcas southbound between Brace Point and Seola Beach close to the mainland. Also one or more more out towards mid-channel.

Mark Amsden

19:35 - Just passed Brace Point southbound east of channel.

Nicole Na

19:30 - Spotted from Magnolia Bluff, Seattle.

Hartmut Peters

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Hartmut Peters

Date of Sighting: April 01, 2024

Time: 7:30 PM

Species seen: orca

Number of animals seen: 6

Where seen: off N end of Blake Island

Direction of travel : initially S, then milling about

Behaviors observed: probably hunting

If orcas, any males?: 1

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: We saw the group from the Magnolia Bluff - a long ways away. The orcas were just black against the western evening sky. There were at least six orcas, at least one male. They were hard to follow because they stayed under water at depth or near the surface for long periods.

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

19:15 - Group of three to four orcas headed south, looks like mid-channel. Longer down times. Viewing from Eagle Harbor looking toward Alki lighthouse with really long lens.

Jim Reitz

19:06 - Leaders passing Vashon ferry east of shipping lanes from Emma Schmitz Viewpoint.

Stephanie Raymond, Orca Network

18:58 - Super close beautiful pass off Alki about ten minutes ago by large group with others offshore who were still well east of mid channel (Harbeson I believe being one). Southbound. Beautiful glassy seas and beautiful April sun.

18:50 - This is just half the overall group when passing by south side Alki.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Maggie Savarino

Date of Sighting: April 01, 2024

Time: 6:49 PM

Species seen: orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: a few 100yds southeast of Rockaway Wing Point

Direction of travel : N slow

Behaviors observed: traveling breaking the water

If orcas, any males?: no

Any unusual markings?: too far

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: nope!

Photos available?: No

18:40 - Many close on off Alki southbound.

18:30 - From Alki looking towards and transect Wing Point, Bainbridge see one group of at least four to five, including male, mid channel or just west of and seeing multiple blows parallel them but far side of the Sound. North of Eagle Harbor. All southbound.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

18:30 - Solitary male outside Elliott Bay heading southeast [approx. 47.618070, -122.423774].

Ben B

18:20 - Group of six seen from Manitou Beach headed south.

Jessica Cook

17:55 - Southbound just north of Rolling Bay.

Susan Bavo

17:43 - Cell pic through spotting scope from Sunset Park as mid-channel group of about five continued steady southbound offshore of Shilshole Marina.

photo by Scott Veirs, April 1, 2024

17:54 - Group passed West Point, heading south.

Deb Cronheim

17:47 - Group passing Shilshoe on west of midchannel closer to Kitsap side… Slow slow steady pace south. Beautiful!

Sue Surowiec Larkin

17:36 - Grouped close together southbound right off of Fay - might be napping.

Brenda Campbell

17:36 - Group north of Westpoint Lighthouse, midchannel, not sure of direction.

Deb Cronheim

17:20 - Ferry had to redirect as one male was seen slightly east of marker [approx. 47.723447, -122.460583]. Milling.

Jenny Klis

17:19 - Leading group on the Kitsap side is now line of sight from Sunset Hill to Port Madison.

17:15 - Viewing from Sunset Hill Park. Midchannel group is line of sight to the Kingston ferry terminal with at least one individual traveling ahead. Edit: seeing at least four clusters spread apart midchannel.

Grace Haaland

16:55 - Just passed President Point still heading southbound fast. Closer to Kitsap side. Three boats following.

Ashley Alecci Goninan

16:50 - Another one to three more midchannel (east/northeast of main group) heading southbound.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

16:52 - Pods are spread all across the channel. With some on the Kitsap side while others are mid channel. All are south of the Kingston ferry lines. Still southbound.

Candace Gavin

16:47 - Passing President Point, Kitsap side heading south.

Joanne Graves

16:41 - Peek-a-boo! From Faye Bainbridge.

Krista Paulino

16:29 - About six or seven just in front of Point Wells tankers.

Jan Pierce

16:29 - Ferry slowed for them. Saw Indy, among others about ten minutes ago.

Maia Jewell

16:10 - Pass by Apple Tree Point - close to the Kitsap side. Mostly tightly grouped, fast travel southbound.

Sara Frey

15:56 - From Edmonds ferry landing, just saw one big male, midchannel heading southbound approaching ferry lanes.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

15:54 - Pods are very loosely grouped. Midchannel. Southbound towards the Edmonds Kingston ferry lanes. Almost to Apple Tree Point.

Candace Gavin

15:38 - They just passed Eglon headed south.

15:26 - Just had a single orca passed Eglon headed south towards Kingston close to shore.

Melissa Peterson

15:00 - Distant (binos only) view from Scatchet Head. Two small boats with them so if you find the boats you’ll see them. So many blows! Southbound.

Donna George

15:00 - Pods are slightly split. All are mid channel to Kitsap side. Almost to Eglon. All have passed Point No Point. Still southbound. One male way ahead of rest of the pods.

Candace Gavin

14:58 - One large male here heading south [approx. 47.898837, -122.484728].

Alice Thuy Talbot

14:56 - Deanna, thanks for this share! I was able to catch a glimpse of them with binoculars from my porch on the Whidbey side from Sun Vista Circle because of your post. It's the first time that timing has aligned! They were having a grand time playing.

Vanessa Cameron

14:42 - Headed towards Eglon.

Teela Bright

14:40 - Epic close pass of Point No Point by entire group. Breaching, slapping, rolling. Headed southeast after pass by.

photos by Jim Reitz, April 1, 2024

14:37 - Blows visible from Edmonds.

Maia Jewell

14:30 - I have friends out sailing by Point No Point. They just informed me of six playful orcas headed south.

Sarah Sing

14:25 - At Norwegian Point Park splashing and breaching and having a good old time.

Teela Bright

14:20 - Watching from Norwegian Point, southbound and very active group.

Deanna Deery-Schmitt

14:08 - A mile north of Point No Point southbound.

David Michael

14:02 - I thought some of you would like to know that T65A5 (Indy) is in the T-party mix today.

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

13:32 - Watching from Double Bluff. They are on the other side of the channel so pretty far away.

Julie Page

13:10 - Transient superpod southbound still! At least members of the T65As, T99s, T36As, T100s, T124A1, and T87! Tough angles on most of my photos but that’s what I could ID before we departed to look for gray whales. Map coming next [approx. 47.958669, -122.534846].

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

12:41 - T87 trailing. I see Bart posted but I also have T124A1 & T99C in my photos as well.

12:30 - Southbound south end Mutiny Bay. T100s and others in first group, 65As & others in second group.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Martin Calvert

Date of Sighting: April 01, 2024

Time: 12:17 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 27

Where seen: South of Edmonds ferry

Direction of travel : South

Behaviors observed: traveling

If orcas, any males?: 5-8

Any unusual markings?: na

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: I have never seen a group as big on the 1st! 27 orcas from many different pods, including the oldest living male on the west coast.

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

photo by Martin Calvert, April 1, 2024

11:55 - I counted ten breaches, some foraging looking behavior as a number of them turned around dove, slapped their tails. Could be fifteen or twenty. Still headed south. Off Mutiny Bay.

Howard Garrett, Orca Network

11:45 - Second group just north of Shore Meadows and Whidbey side of mid. Southbound.

11:30 - Two groups with about a mile or two distant between. First group closer to Shore Meadows. And closer to Whidbey side. Second group middish channel but appearing just this side of mid channel a mile plus behind first group. Southbound.

Marilyn Armbruster

11:25 - Still viewing between Bush Point and Shore Meadows.

Heidi Bruns Shank

11:13 - Millng around same spot. Mid Bush and Shore Meadows middish channel.

10:50 - Viewing from Shore Meadows, midway between Bush Point and here. Mid or Whidbey side of mid channel. Entering Mutiny Bay soon. Southbound.

Marilyn Armbruster

10:50 - Viewing from Bush Point. They are mid channel south of here. Surface active likely on a kill. No direction of travel. Maybe southbound now.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Jan Bell

Date of Sighting: April 01, 2024

Time: 10:40 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 8

Where seen: Far side of channel out from Port Ludlow rock feeding

Direction of travel : Milling but southbound

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?:

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Jan Bell

Date of Sighting: April 01, 2024

Time: 10:21 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 10

Where seen: Immediately south of Bush Point southbound

Direction of travel : S

Behaviors observed: Traveling two young close to adults

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?:

08:09 - Friends have eyes on them, reports slow southbound, still just north of Bush Point but nearly to point now.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

08:10 - Now I am wondering if one is a male traveling with a female. Pretty far to view with my binoculars.

07:54 - Southbound but milling around. Two females and it looks like a baby too.

07:32 - Orcas north of Bush Point. Two. Small - at first we thought dolphins but then we spotted eye patches and white bellies.

Julie Page

Sun, Mar 31 - Strait of Juan de Fuca (T30Bs & T117Bs)

T117B

T30B Lyra & T30B3

These were taken just south of Race rocks. Present are T117Bs and T30Bs! Whoa! Two new matrilines for me. The T117Bs are just T117B (b. 2005) and her little, T117B1 (b. 2023). The T30Bs are T30B (Lyra, b. 1993) and her kiddos, T30B1 (Vega, b. 2012), T30B2 (Capella, b. 2017) and little T30B3 (b. 2024). Link to more photos.

photos & IDs by Cindi Crowder Rausch, March 31, 2024

Excerpt from the Center for Whale Research Encounter #26:

“Mark, Joe and Fin were working their way home from a relatively fruitless spring survey of the western Juan de Fuca Strait when they received word of a small group of presumed Bigg’s killer whales travelling east, near Race Rocks. They picked up their pace as they made their way along the southwest coast of Vancouver Island, and arrived with the animals at 1620.The group of four whales had been making good way east in the building flood current, and the Mike 1 team were quickly able to identify them as the T030Bs! The T030Bs are not overly common visitors to the Salish Sea, though Mark did encounter them in late January when CWR first observed the newest addition to the family, T030B3 (see Encounter #09). They have now been observed in the area in March in five of the last six years. Typically present in encounters with the T030Bs are the T117Bs, an adult female and her two-year-old offspring. The duo soon made themselves known, appearing just under a quarter mile to the southwest…”

Read more here at Center for Whale Research Encounter #26.

Sun, Mar 31 - Puget Sound (T65As & T99s)

T65A3 Amira

Twenty minutes into our trip on the Victoria Clipper. Link to more photos.

photos by LeAnne Watts Beardsley, March 31, 2024

T65A2 Ooxjaa

It ended up being an incredible day on Vashon Island, catching the transient orcas from Point Robinson and the Point Defiance ferry! Link to more photos.

photos by Kyle Anderson, March 31, 2024

T-s again! Link to more photos.

photos by Craig Killer, March 31, 2024

Portrait of Mount Stone in the Olympics with an interesting foreground taken from Fauntleroy ferry terminal, along with three other photos from Vashon Island today. Link to more photos.

photos by Hongming Zheng, March 31, 2024

Second Easter in a row with orcas. Started at Des Moines pier with Point Robinson, followed by Browns Point & then Olalla. Link to more photos.

photos by Jason Cook, March 31, 2024

Tracey Carrillothanks so much for your earlier post. We were able to catch them in Olalla!!

Lisa Lynne

19:30 - Three off Olalla closer to Vashon side northbound.

Cynthia Swensøn

19:21 - We see a couple from Olalla.

Lisa Lynne

19:10 - Heading up Colvos Passage toward Ollala. I think we counted six spread across the passage.

Kathryn McMillan

18:53 - I have at least three at Point Richmond close to shore, possibly one more mid channel from them. Haven't seen any others.

18:47 - Coming up on Point Richmond close to shore, Northbound.

18:40 - Have at least three north of Sunrise Beach close to Gig Harbor side trending north. Not seeing anything in the Narrows. From 5 Mile Drive.

Melissa Bird

18:40 - Trending north.

18:30 - Viewed from Anthony's. Near Sunrise Beach. Milling.

Paul Davis

18:26 - At least four of them are in Colvos right now.

April Koller

18:19 - They’re heading south towards Narrows.

Brianna Aratin

18:15 - Three headed up Colvos, sighted from Dalco on Vashon.

Sarah Bradford Honeywell

18:15 - My mom called again. Said they are hugging Vashon and headed northbound.

Brianna Schroeder

18:15 - It [pass on the ferry] was awesome!!

Sandy Hassell

18:14 - I was there [on the ferry]! What a pass.

18:10 - Seen from Point Defiance ferry heading west past ferry lanes.

Kyle Anderson

18:10 - They already passed Tahlequah ferry dock closer to Vashon, quick westbound travel.

Fusako Nozaka

18:10 - My mom is viewing from Gig Harbor. “Just rounded the tip of Vashon headed towards the ferry”.

Brianna Schroeder

18:07 - They’ve passed the Tahlequah ferry dock, close to Vashon shore heading west.

David Michael

18:02 - Well, people on the ferry are gonna have a good time.

David Bennett

17:58 - Coming into the view heading towards us (westbound), viewing from the 18:00 Tahlequah to Point Defiance ferry! Ferry is aware of them.

Fusako Nozaka

17:58 - Leaders are headed towards Tahlequah ferry dock at a quick pace. As viewed Brown's Point Lighthouse.

Candace Gavin

17:50 - T65As and T99s are now out of my sight rounding south end Maury heading southwesterly toward Dalco Passage, Vashon side. Very lovely seeing their illuminated exhalations as they travel on loosely grouped.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

17:52 - Just viewed from Ruston Way. Close to Northilla Beach.

Chloe Giday

17:51 - Viewing from Dune. Approaching southeast tip of Maury traveling west.

Alisa Miller

17:47 - Leaders are in the middle of entrance of Quartermaster, continuing west and closer to island side.

17:50 - Picked up speed, they are moving quickly!

Mollie Segall

17:42 - Westbound south tip of Maury.

Ed Rickert

17:41 - At the tip of Maury, directly across from Browns Point. Continuing west.

Mollie Segall

17:41 - Four seen - island side but visible from Browns Point Lighthouse.

Sara Cook

17:32 - Ts continue southbound travels. Generally transect sightline Gold Beach and Browns Point. Vashon/Maury side of mid channel [approx. 47.341572, -122.441385].

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

17:30 - Seen them from Old Town Tacoma Northern Fish.

photo by Jerry Hughes, March 31, 2024

17:18 - General location of the Ts is between Gold Beach and Dumas Bay steady southbound [approx. 47.360868, -122.430537].

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

17:08 - Viewing with binoculars from above Point Ruston. Lots of surfacing well east of main channel buoy in Commencement in line with Des Moines.

Ed Rickert

17:05 - From friend's place southern Gold Beach Ts are now in view still island side of channel. Grouped steady pace southbound.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Christian Schormann

Date of Sighting: March 31, 2024

Time: 5:00 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: Off Discovery Park

Direction of travel : S

Behaviors observed: Looked like traveling

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

16:52 - They went past Point Robinson and heading towards Dash Point. Moving fast.

Gina Coheley

16:50 - All in a beautiful loose group, leisurely southbound past Point Robinson now, island side of mid channel with long downtimes. Note: Glancing through pics, do believe T65A5 is with them.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

16:48 - South of Robinson now.

Jamie Smugeresky

16:41 - We can see them in binoculars from Redondo now. They are right off Point Robinson.

Melissa Spradley

16:35 - Group of six to eight mid channel headed south.

Tray N Jen

16:41 - Heading south.

16:30 - Now slowly heading east. Big dorsal fins.

16:23 - Seen slowly heading northeast from Point Robinson.

Kyle Anderson

16:33 - Just turned again! Now slowly heading southbound toward mid channel - almost between Des Moines and Point Robinson.

16:23 - Just turned heading toward mid channel and north. Very visible spouts and dorsal fin. Heading away from Point Robinson.

photos by Sandy Hassell, March 31, 2024

16:15 - Approaching Point Robinson still island side, southbound in a loose group.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

16:06 - Approaching Des Moines.

Scott Hill

16:06 - Still off KVI point slightly south.

15:51 - Seeing spouts between last two boats in front of KVI Beach/Vashon.

Sandy Hassell

15:49 - Seeing spouts island side of channel from my vantage looking like they are just south of KVI headed southbound.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

15:36 - Southbound visible from southside of Three Tree Point. Mid channel closer to Vashon. Four boats near by watching them.

Sandhya Ballal

15:34 - Getting closer to Vashon now.

15:31 - Counting six. Playful spy hop and some tail action. Heading south midchannel. Even with Normandy Park - The Cove Normandy Park Community Club.

15:21 - Mid channel by Three Tree Point southbound.

15:16 - And now there’s a whole pod! Mid channel slightly closer to West Seattle heading south.

photo by Jamie Smugeresky, March 31, 2024

15:18 - From my neighbor on northside of Three Tree Point - southbound estimated eight whales (three bulls) viewable from north side of Three Tree Point. Slow pace headed closer to Vashon side. Sailboat near them.

Sandhya Ballal

14:52 - They are now southbound passing Dilworth towers.

14:43 - Still milling slightly north of Dilworth closer to Vashon side of channel. Slowly moving south in close group.

Cindy Eckes Waddington

14:45 - Still at here [Seahurst]. Trending SLOOOOOOOW south.

14:26 - Flipped now. Northbound at now of the white vessel. [update] I think they’re just milling around in circles.

14:24 - Passing Seahurst now. Slow south, Vashon side.

Jeffrey Stander

14:19 - Nearing Dilworth… mid channel.

Steve Fogard

13:50 - 14:00 - Lots of activity, south of Brace Point, midchannel, southbound - cluster of four to five together midchannel seems maybe to have either had a small kill or stopped to frolick. Lots of breaching... a few stragglers behind, and one closer to mainland side of channel. Absolutely spectacular show!

Megan McNally

13:52 - T65As and T99s continue southbound travels mid channel probably one and a half to two miles south of Fauntleroy/Vashon ferry traffic lanes. Such a beautiful day backdropped by Tahoma. So many passengers enjoying the crossing and orcas in the distance.

13:36 - Pods are being super active while they continue southbound about half mile south of Fauntleroy lanes at leisurely pace. Spyhops, breaches, inverted rolls, etc. so fun and beautiful.

13:19 - Group is now just south of ferry traffic lanes loosely grouped.

13:15 - Orcas are east of mid channel transect Fauntleroy dock and Vashon dock. Tail lobs, headstand. Southbound.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

13:16 - Update did not go into Colvos! Appear to maybe be in the ferry lane close to Vashon.

13:12 - Spotted them from Lincoln Park looks like they are headed more towards Colvos Passage. Close to the Vashon ferry dock.

Mandy Michelle

12:28 - Just passed the left side of Blake Island southbound.

Zach Ward

12:07 - Surface activity between Alki lighthouse and Blake Island southbound. Viewing from Myrtle Edwards. Definitely closer to Blake.

Taylor Seyl

12:04 - Probably five plus orcas southbound east side of Blake and by the sail boat.

Fei Cheng

11:50 - Orcas were announced on our Bremerton ferry crossing. They were seen heading towards Vashon Island [approx. 47.584978, -122.432437].

Michelle Kuhns

11:34 - Saw blows in front of Clipper with binoculars from Myrtle Edwards Park.

Taylor Seyl

11:28 - SJC has spotted this group of whales southbound off Restoration Point. Confirmed T65A3 and A4 for sure, but looks like 65As and 99s. Confirmed 99s as well.

Alli Montgomery

11:23 - Restoration Point, southbound leisurely. Lots of tail lobs and surface activity.

David Scott

10:42 - From the Bainbridge-Seattle ferry! Headed south towards Blakley Rock closer to Kitsap side.

Emma Vasilj

10:39 - Donna McCrea, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 10:40 to report: TACOMA Captain reports 6-8 Orca SB, East of Tyee Shoal.

Sun, Mar 31 - Colvos Passage (T65A5 Indy)

08:00 - Woke a lone orca traveling northbound west side Colvos Passage. Approaching Southworth ferry terminal.

photo by Tim Ferris, March 31, 2024

Sat, Mar 30 - Hood Canal/Admiralty Inlet

19:25 - Between Bush Point and Shore Meadow, Mid channel. They have been at the buffet for about 30 minutes. Stalled.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

19:05 - Pretty sure it's at least four [sightings from Labella Vista - south of Bush Point].

18:55 - We see two for sure.

Carla Bradshaw

19:00 - They are north or yellow buoy on Kitsap side. Very far, as I’m between Mutiny Bay and Bush Point on Whidbey side. Direction not for sure.

Heidi Bruns Shank

18:14 - Viewing from Shore Meadow. Orca are mid channel maybe just east of mid. Still northbound at a steady pace. I’ll drop a map [approx. 47.96547, -122.570158].

Cindi Crowder Rausch

17:58 - Looks like four, one male and three others. Watching via scope from Hansville Market. Very far north.

Kimberly Sylvester

17:53 - They are kind of around that red dot [approx. 47.966031, -122.557932].

17:22 - Just saw six to seven orca off of Hansville Grocery heading north. This was taken off of Twin Spits in Hansville at 15:53 as they were exiting the Hood Canal. Looks to be three to five orca maybe? But at least three. The male came up right in front of me offshore super duper close. I wasn’t expecting him to show up right in front of me so this is the best I got after that. It got really windy.

15:28 - I just saw one male headed north towards Foulweather Bluff Preserve.

Kelly Kauffman Wisniewski

15:00 - Hood Canal Bridge sighting.

Hannah Johnson

14:43 - We spotted three while driving across the bridge. By the time we pulled over, only saw the one.

Tracy Sivilay

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Tracy Sivilay

Date of Sighting: March 30, 2024

Time: 2:43 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 3

Where seen: Hood Canal Bridge

Direction of travel :

Behaviors observed: Milling

If orcas, any males?: Males

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?:

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Hannah Johnson

Date of Sighting: March 30, 2024

Time: 2:40 PM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Hood Canal Bridge - south side

Direction of travel : NE slow

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?: Seemed large as I could clearly see it while driving on the bridge

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Saw two orcas while crossing the Hood Canal bridge westbound - pulled over at the boat ramp on the west side and caught another glimpse. They seemed to be traveling back and forth along the bridge

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

Sat, Mar 30 - Possession Sound (T99s & T124Ds)

T99E

T99C Barakat

Caught up with the T99s at Mukilteo Lighthouse. T99E was having an absolute ball and breaching everywhere. As the whales passed by the park, T99E and her big sister T99B briefly started to play. It was incredible to see their dynamic together. Taken from shore at Mukilteo Lighthouse. Link to more photos.

photos by Kat Martin, March 30, 2024

T99B Holly & T124D1 Salish

T124D3 & T124D Field

T99's near Hat Island and Mukilteo. Link to more photos.

photos by Janine Harles, March 30, 2024

13:00 - 14:00 - Six to eight orcas including at least one, possibly two males, in Admiralty Inlet close to Whidbey, north of Point No Point traveling southeast.

Rod Lundberg

16:00 - They were southbound but just disappeared with conditions. Brief sightings.

Ashley Johnson

14:51 - I still see them off Eglon, looks like they are milling and moved a little bit closer to Kitsap side.

14:33 - I can see them from Eglon Beach, mid channel and still southbound.

Catherine Alvarado Soto

14:00 - Pod has continued south from Picnic Point. Mid channel to mainland side.

Candace Gavin

13:58 - T124D pod and T99 pod are westbound at my map spot [approx. 47.890948, -122.388461].

Bart Rulon Wildlife

13:56 - Just saw a pod of five orca whales at Possession Beach. Going through the channel.

Scott Hagel

13:51 - From Picnic point they appear to be southbound at this time.

April Janice Basham

13:38 - They’re drifting towards Whidbey side. Almost to Possession Point.

Alice Thuy Talbot

13:36 - Passing Possession Waterfront Park mid channel - steady south bound.

Dori Dace

13:55 - They’re past the south end of Possession Point. South of the green channel marker. SJC seems to be following this group. We are losing sight but a perfect light and flat water for spotting!

13:42 - Looks like one male and at least four other smaller fins. Still mid-channel but moving closer to Whidbey side. Southbound.

13:36 - More mid-channel now.

13:32 - Currently next to a small boat at anchor off shore.

13:28 - Spotted south of the beach at Mukilteo. Much closer to the mainland and watching from Whidbey. Still moving southbound.

Ethan Abeles

13:18 - SJC just leaving T99s still traveling southbound about a mile south of Mukilteo ferry terminal. Closer to mainland side. Breachy 99E!

Alli Montgomery

13:14 - Still southbound!

Amelia Weixler

13:10 - They have passed the ferry lanes and heading south Mukilteo side of midchannel in Possession Sound.

Alice Thuy Talbot

13:09 - Past the Mukilteo ferry line currently.

Kris Clark

12:52 - Spotted off Mukilteo. Clipper following.

Stephanie Day

12:50 - Whales still moving south towards the Mukilteo Lighthouse. Pushing towards mid channel maybe? T99E was having a ball!

Kat Martin

12:50 - They are traveling southbound directly in front of the Mukilteo ferry terminal, mid channel but closer to Mukilteo.

Jayn Goldsen

12:41 - We saw three other orcas about a mile away closer to Mukilteo when the T99s were eating their meal.

12:34 - T99s are moving southbound now towards Mukilteo. South of my original map spot.

12:25 - T99 pod milling on a kill [approx 47.991021, -122.304862].

Bart Rulon Wildlife

12:23 - Still same area. They’re feeding right now. Tens of birds circling around. Viewing from Mukilteo Lighthouse.

12:11 - Absolute breach fest in front of Swiftsure. Southeast end of Hat Island. Can’t tell direction as they’re so far.

Kat Martin

11:56 - T99's for sure.

Janine Harles

11:43 - Two to three milling around west of us [approx. 47.992986, -122.295805].

photos by Andrea Duffield, March 30, 2024

11:14 - Heading south of Hat towards Mukilteo.

11:10 - Heading southeast down Hat Island, pushing off towards Mukilteo.

Janine Harles

11:11 - I see them now. We’re waiting to start a sailboat race. They’re still moving south. Now well southeast of Hat.

Erica Sutehall

10:55 - Janine Harles called to report the orcas are off the northwest side of Hat Island, very close inshore, heading southbound toward Clinton/Mukilteo.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

10:40 - Three orcas, including a male, leisurely heading towards Everett from southeast of Hat.

photo by Lori Christopher, March 30, 2024

10:29 - Just saw them [orcas], headed to Everett.

Michele Sayed [HIWS]

10:15 - Just saw an orca just north of the [Hat Island] marina heading [southeast].

Greg Bonn [HIWS]

07:50 - Three to four orcas traveling south off of Bells Beach [Whidbey Island].

Amanda Dill [WIWS]

Sat, Mar 30 - BC (T63, T65, T36As, T100s, T124As)

T63 Chainsaw, T100C Laurel, T100 Hutchins

T36A1 Tierna & T124A1A

Orcas. It was such a treat to see Chainsaw today and also a baby with the pod. All shots taken from shore. Denman Island, BC. Link to more photos.

photos by Gerry Ambury, March 30, 2024

Sat, Mar 30 - Puget Sound (T65A5 Indy)

T65A5 Indy

20:00 - This is the whale seen at Golden Gardens/Shilshole. The whale may have been targeting sea lions in the area, many of which were porpoising and seeming pretty frantic.

photo by Deb Cronheim, March 30, 2024

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Deb Cronheim

Date of Sighting: March 30, 2024

Time: 8:00 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 1

Where seen: Golden Gardens, near Shilshole Marina

Direction of travel : South, with turns

Behaviors observed: Appeared to be hunting sea lions that were porpoising

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

Fri, Mar 29 - Admiralty Inlet/Possession Sound (T99s & T124Ds)

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Anna Swenson

Date of Sighting: March 29, 2024

Time: 5:35 PM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen: 4

Where seen: Possession Beach

Direction of travel : North

Behaviors observed: Swimming, circling the bay, breach, tail slaps

If orcas, any males?: 1

Any unusual markings?: None IDd

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Orcas seen swimming north past Possession Beach at 17:35 - 17:45. Seen hanging out circling the bay before heading north again

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

photo by Anna Swenson, March 29, 2024

19:15 - Saw these beauty's just off Brighton Beach. Thank you all for the heads up and updates! Truly.

Marilyn Armbruster

19:10 - Northbound passing Brighton Beach.

18:35 - Hugging shore approaching Clinton terminal. In front of Columbia Beach.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

18:10 - We're watching them from the other side of the water but wish we were over there on Whidbey they're putting on quite a show. Just passing Glendale close to shore.

Ed Pearson

18:05 - Incredible pass Glendale northbound hugging Whidbey still

17:55 - Hugging Whidbey shore northbound approaching Glendale.

17:20 - They hunted twenty feet offshore. It was incredible.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Lisa Mahendran

Date of Sighting: March 29, 2024

Time: 5:24 PM

Species seen: Bigg’s orcas

Number of animals seen: 8

Where seen: Southeast tip of Possession Point, on the Whidbey side right next to shore

Direction of travel : North

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: 1

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

17:20 - Slow northbound travel towards Glendale.

17:16 - Whidbey side close to shore. Putting on quite a show.

Alice Thuy Talbot

17:08 - Slow, some surface activity northbound, almost just east of tip of Possession Point.

17:00 - Possible northbound movement now.

16:55 - Have been stalled on a hunt, some progress north. Still southeast of Possession Point.

16:30 - Southeast of Possession Point.

16:07 - Possibly aiming northeast towards Possession. All grouped.

16:05 - Surfaced much further east now, continuing easy. Cannot tell if still south trend though.

16:00 - From South Whidbey, guessing roughly around here [approx. 47.873418, -122.420179]? When I first got eyes on them, they were east/southeast trend. Then some directional changes now on a long dive. Need binos to see, they are well south of me.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

14:20 - Our last views of the T99s and T124Ds spreading out to look for prey at my map spot still southbound. Very slow pace [approx. 47.932189, -122.475184].

Bart Rulon Wildlife

14:24 - Still in Useless Bay. The initial group we saw is being joined by two maybe three whales who were following from the north.

14:07 - They’re just milling about maybe feeding. In shallow water. There is at least one juvenile.

photo by Carolyn Burns Iwata, March 29, 2024

14:00 - T99 pod and T124D pod are southbound at my map spot [approx. 47.953705 -122.511924].

Bart Rulon Wildlife

14:00 - Five or so in Useless Bay. Swifsure just arrived.

Carolyn Burns Iwata

13:59 - I can see them from Norwegian Point Park. They are still headed south. A sailboat is following them. A whale watching boat just arrived in the area.

Morgan Eagar

13:15 - Viewing from Limpet. Eight or so Whidbey side. They are battling the tide, so moving slow. Still southbound. T99s are in the mix!

Cindi Crowder Rausch

13:00 - On a tour right now. Seen this pod.

Melissa Crabtree

12:50 - Seeing who looks to be five orcas, including a small one, on the outer edge of Mutiny Bay heading southbound. As viewed from Shore Meadow.

Cindi Crowder Rausch via Rachel

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Orca Sighting:

Sighting Time: Fri Mar 29 8:35:59 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 48.03212, -122.6073

Number Sighted: 3

Submitted Comments: Greg Roe . 3 Orca off Bush Point 1 big one with large dorsal fin 2 other smaller

Photos: See below

Submitter Name: Greg Roe

photo by Greg Roe, March 29, 2024

Fri, Mar 29 - Hood Canal

18:45 - We saw four orca off Bridgehaven Spit, Hood Canal. One and a half miles south of the Hood Canal Bridge. Looked like they were headed north towards the bridge.

Dan Fick

18:22 - Seeing spouts just west of Hood Canal floating bridge.

Lea Kane

18:13 - They were heading out of the canal. Traveling pretty fast north!

18:09 - Just spotted at least three mid channel in Bridgehaven, Port Ludlow. Slightly south of the bridge.

photo by Delaney Russell, March, 29, 2024

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Alan Moum

Date of Sighting: March 29, 2024

Time: 5:15 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen:

Where seen: 47.801272, -122.681915

Direction of travel : N, FAST

Behaviors observed: Rolled, breathing twice while rapidly swimming north

If orcas, any males?: 1 VERY TALL SKINNY DORSAL

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

11:00 - We saw a pod of orcas near Hama Hama. There were at least four. It was amazing! They were definitely orcas. They were heading towards Brinnon [northbound].

Melanie Stillings [ONCG]

Tue, Mar 26 - Puget Sound

08:25 - First saw them off of Indianola. They circled around in Port Madison for about an hour then headed northeast.

07:24 - Orca pod moving through Port Madison toward Bainbridge right now… heading east.

John Oleyar [BI]

Mon, Mar 25 - Victoria, BC

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Orca Sighting:

Sighting Time: Mon Mar 25 13:21:29 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 48.44896,-123.43587 [Victoria Harbor]

Number Sighted: 2

Submitter Name: Royal Bay Charters

Whale Alert App

Sat, Mar 23 - South Puget Sound

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Ellen Cleary-Penninger

Date of Sighting: March 23, 2024

Time: 6:13 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 4

Where seen: Bella Bella Beach, Fox Island, Wa

Direction of travel :

Behaviors observed: One of the group came over to say hello

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

Fri, Mar 22 - San Juan Islands

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Orca Sighting:

Sighting Time: Fri Mar 22 12:10:20 PDT

Sighting User Reported location (Lat/Lon): 48.55477,-122.84103 [between Humphrey Head, Lopez and Blakely Island]

Number Sighted: 4

Submitted Comments: Heading east to west

Washing state ferry boat to Orcas island did not slow down

Submitter Name: Joseph k Gaydos

Whale Alert App

Wed, Mar 20 - Juan de Fuca Strait

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Orca Sighting:

Sighting Time: Wed Mar 20 17:01:45 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 48.37755,-123.91601 [Shirley, BC]

Number Sighted: 2

Submitted Comments: Adult and baby

Submitter Name: Hannah

Whale Alert App

Wed, Mar 20 - Puget Sound

09:50 - Mark Millard, WDFW called to report five orcas, including a male, out from Jefferson Head, Kingston traveling southbound.

COASTAL KILLER WHALES

Tue, Mar 26 - Oregon Coast

11:45 - Aimee Kodiaq called from the Umpqua River Lighthouse, Reedsport Oregon to report seeing pod of orcas, believed to be transients, about three miles offshore from the Umpqua Lighthouse. They were there for gray whale observation when someone caught glimpse of several dorsal fins offshore. Approximately five orcas, breaching and splashing then continued on, appeared to be southbound. There was also one gray whale in area as well, there was no interaction between the two species they could see.

HUMPBACK WHALES

Mon, Apr 1 - Haro Strait

18:04 - Was up [island] then flipped down.

16:54 - Humpback 100 yards off west side of San Juan Island. Approaching Snug.

Peter Van Deventer [WSSJI]

Sun, Mar 31 - Haro Strait

19:30 - Humpback breach at Lime Kiln! About three meters from shore.

Allison Herkey [WSSJI]

15:11 - Lime Kiln, Humpback last surfaced about 14:58, moving fairly fast northbound. Surfaced about five to ten meter offshore, with barely any fluke action. May have fully passed Lime Kiln and may be past my view point.

14:20 - Humpback dove at 14:15, about 0.3mi off of Land Bank to the south.

Katie Onthesalishsea [WSSJI]

14:07 - The humpback is trending up island, staying down for five to six minutes at a time, adjacent to the backside (down island side) of Edwards Point. Viewing from one mile south of Landbank.

13:35 - Humpback milling just south of Edwards Point. 400 yds from shore, not surfacing often.

Michelline Halliday [WSSJI]

13:15 - Humpback milling near Land Bank.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

GRAY WHALES

Wed, Apr 3 - Upper Saratoga Passage

10:15 - We spotted gray whales off north Camano Island, Utsalady Bay.

Laura Jo Aseltine [SSWW]

Wed, Apr 3 - Possession Sound

12:38 - Viewing from Harborview Park. My best guess is at my noted location on map. Cannot tell direction [approx. 48.010507, -122.264394].

12:05 - From the Mukilteo bound ferry, I could see the three grey whale blows in line with Priest Point. Can't tell how far in the sound though from ferry. Thank you Roy Short (HIWS).

Marilyn Armbruster

10:35 - Three grays traveling toward Everett from Hat Island.

Roy Short [HIWS]

Wed, Apr 3 - Puget Sound

19:16 - Swam a lap around the breakwater & marina. Now northbound close to mainland. Came by the pier and went down near Redondo. Then returned about 40 minutes later and stayed in sight northeast of the pier. Link to more photos.

18:19 - Gray whale just off the Des Moines pier facing northbound.

18:30 - Southbound headed to Redondo.

photo by Jason Cook, April 3, 2024

11:53 - Ali S. sent message reporting a gray whale in Redondo Bay heading southbound close to Redondo shore. [Update per Ali Saccone]: I saw it head north in Redondo Bay and quickly flipped south by the boat launch. It was splashing around, I saw no breaches. As it quickly headed south along the bay I lost sight in all the white caps. The wind also made it hard to see the spray. For a moment we thought there were two but can’t be sure.

Tue, Apr 2 - Upper Saratoga Passage

14:28 - Grey whale hanging out just off Harrington Lagoon (Saratoga Passage). Spy hopping and displaying, tail, dorsal fins and rolling. Pretty cool.

Randy Zimmerman Furnas

Tue, Apr 2 - Central/Lower Saratoga Passage

10:19 - Close to Sandy Point, Whidbey now. Appears to be headed south toward Hat Island.

09:59 - Heading steadily south.

09:45 - Gray whale south of Camano Head, viewing from Langley.

08:27 - Long down times, possibly heading south east along Fox Spit now.

08:12 - Gray whale from Hidden Beach is now approaching Baby Island. Update: two grays near Baby Island [approx. 48.105974, -122.528586].

Catherine Lee

Tue, Apr 2 - Central Saratoga Passage (CRC22 Earhart)

CRC22 Earhart

07:00 - Gray whale at Hidden Beach Tuesday morning.

photos by Bob VonDrachek, April 2, 2024

Tue, Apr 2 - Possession Sound (CRC383 Cascade & CRC2356 Stalwart)

13:50 - Just left 383 and 2356 south of Hat moving east.

Trevor Tillman, PSE

Mon, Apr 1 - Upper Saratoga Passage

10:50 - 11:00 - I’m watching a gray grazing past Mariners Cove, heading toward Polnell. The sunlight is making it tough to see markings, but it looks to me to be our frequent visitor that has the wide lighter-gray collar/necklace behind the blowholes. 53 or 56? Hard to keep the numbers straight.

Marianne Parry

Mon, Apr 1 - Lower Saratoga Passage

13:59 - About a mile north of Langley, slightly closer to Whidbey side. Seems to be moving slowly. Trailed by a few whale watching boats. Heading north [approx. 48.052467, -122.415778].

Andrew Wright

13:05 - Now it's slowly heading towards Langley marina close to Whidbey bluff.

12:45 - One gray still milling about and feeding just west of Sandy Point. It goes out into the deeper channel and then comes back near the bluff bit has been here for at least an hour.

12:01 - Gray feeding in the Sandy Point area near Whidbey bluff.

Luanne Seymour

Mon, Apr 1 - Lower Saratoga Passage (CRC383 Cascade)

11:54 - Grays are still slowly northbound on Whidbey side, north of Baby Island now. Long downtimes, not surfacing much.

11:39 - Grays are slowly northbound Whidbey side of midchannel between Fox Spit and Baby Island, across from south end of Camano Island State Park.

10:55 - The two grays have been in view from the south end of Camano Island State Park for the last 30 minutes. Currently heading northwest on Camano side of Saratoga, at least a mile south of the park

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

09:41 - Headed towards Elger Bay it looks like.

photos by Thomas McKane, April 1, 2024

09:36 - Grays are trending northwest now, north of Mabana boat launch.

09:20 - Feeding and trending north just south of Mabana boat launch. CRC383 is here, not sure about the second one but don't think it's Earhart.

09:14 - Grays now feeding off the south end of Mabana.

09:00 - Two grays feeding between Summerland and Mabana.

photo by Serena Tierra, April 1, 2024

08:00 - Appear to have stopped to feed north of Pebble Beach [approx. 48.067686, -122.392666].

07:24 - Two grays heading north along Camano, close to Pebble Beach.

07:14 - I'm at Langley seeing two gray whales at Camano Head, no known direction.

Catherine Lee

Mon, Apr 1 - Possession Sound

16:40 - Finally caught sight of it here. Seems to be heading north towards the west side of Hat Island. [correction]: Last I saw the whale about an hour ago it was likely heading into Port Susan [approx. 48.043236, -122.366816].

Holly Bailey Aprecio

Mon, Apr 1 - Possession Sound (CRC2356 Stalwart)

CRC2356 Stalwart

ID by Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

17:00 - I saw a gray whale east of Hat island, near the tall black-diamond marker structure. The whale was in 100 - 200 feet of water but close (within quarter mile) to the shallows of the marker. The distant background in the photo is Camano Head.

photo by Tim Roos, April 1, 2024

08:28 - Michelle Sayed spotted two grays northeast side Hat Island heading southeast.

[HIWS]

06:47 - Alice Moyal spotted one gray whale northeast side Hat Island, about mid way. Appeared to be heading east/southeast.

[HIWS]

Sun, Mar 31 - Upper Saratoga Passage

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Wendi Hale

Date of Sighting: March 31, 2023

Time:

Species seen: Gray

Number of animals seen: 1

Where seen: Utsalady Bay West of Browns Point

Direction of travel : West to East

Behaviors observed: spouting

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: seen from our home We haven't been seeing them this year.

Photos available?: No

Sun, Mar 31 - Upper Saratoga Passage

15:00 - 16:00 - Three grays spread out. CRC56 Stardust & CRC2249 Hattie at left yellow square [approx. 48.238450, -122.567720]. CRC2441 at right yellow square [approx. 48.228696, -122.545088]. When we left they were spread out by a couple miles.

Sam Wallace

12:15 - Just an update on the earlier Mariners’ Cove gray report: it snacked slowly back and forth along the beach, but very gradually worked its way south and is now heading toward Polnell at a faster pace.

11:30 - Watching a gray feeding just off the beach at Mariners’ Cove. Unclear which direction it’s going, but I’ll keep and eye on it. Looks like it may have been headed south but pulled a u-turn.

Marianne Parry

Sun, Mar 31 - Central Saratoga Passage

13:53 - One gray here milling, saw a fluke but from very far away [approx. 48.117536, -122.552688].

Rose Caitlin

10:36 - Lone gray is continuing to head north of Hidden Beach mid-channel, but was very close to shore earlier.

10:25 - A lone gray is heading mid channel northbound to Hidden Beach. Maybe it’s the one from Langley earlier today.

Janet Moody

10:11 - Headed south now. Haven't seen them in a minute.

Mel Nasby

10:10 - Starting to head south of Hidden Beach again.

Janet Moody

10:05 - Still here at Hidden Beach. Having a blast feeding.

09:48 - They just flipped back towards Hidden Beach. Bluff just south and above Hidden Beach. Thank you Rachel Haight for posting this morning. It was my little sister's first time seeing these amazing creatures.

photos by Mel Nasby, March 31, 2024

09:35 - The two grays are now south of Hidden Beach headed south, about out of sight here.

09:15 - Bluff above Hidden Beach, incredible seeing them from up here, so close together.

08:40 - Friend reports two grays very close to shore in the cove just north of Hidden Beach, Whidbey.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

08:09 - Starting to make their way south towards Hidden Beach.

07:35 - Two gray whales off Whidbey shore, one and a half miles north of Hidden Beach.

photo by Aaron Gill, March 31, 2024

Sun, Mar 31 - Central Saratoga Passage

19:14 - Two gray whales headed towards Langley [approx. 48.096011, -122.486723].

Stephanie Geissler Reid

16:12 - I do think they did. We are not following anymore, but saw blows on the far side of Baby Island, from East Point.

15:37 - Drifting slowly toward Baby Island.

15:26 - Seeing two at dropped pin [approx. 48.109004, -122.541814].

Amy Smith Norris

16:11 - The two grays have entered Holmes Harbor.

14:13 - Two grays here, not sure if it’s the same one I saw [approx. 48.099171, -122.485892].

Rose Caitlin

13:40 - At least one gray traveling south off the Whidbey shore between Baby Island and Fox Spit. Potentially a second feeding on the shore just north of Fox Spit, but viewing from a distance at Hidden Beach so tough to tell.

Emily Wandres

Sun, Mar 31 - Lower Saratoga Passage

10:18 - We have one, possibly two, just north of Langley Whale Bell, about halfway between Whidbey and Camano.

Amanda Nehring

09:24 - More towards Langley Marina area and possibly a little closer in. Northbound.

08:30 - 09:00 - Easter grey. Sandy Point and who has now traveled back north and mid Sandy Point and Langley Marina quarter mid channel out.

photo by Marilyn Armbruster, March 31, 2024

It spouted and dove for us at the sunrise Easter service at Langley Marina.

Amanda Nehring

07:03 - [gray whale feeding] Watching from Inn at Langley [Whidbey] just now.

JoAnn A. W.

Sun, Mar 31 - Possession Sound

10:23 - Gray out side the marina [Hat Island].

Shawn Potter [HIWS]

Sat, Mar 30 - Penn Cove

19:08 - Gray whale seen in Penn Cove west of Long Point beach. The whale surfaced to breathe three times in same place (feeding?) then left the area and moved east around Long Point toward Saratoga Passage.

photo by Eileen Ryan, March 30, 2024

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Eileen Ryan

Date of Sighting: March 30, 2024

Time: 7:08 PM

Species seen: Gray

Number of animals seen: 1

Where seen: Penn Cove west of Long Point beach

Direction of travel : E slow then medium

Behaviors observed: Came up 3 times to breathe while in same area (feeding?). Then whale swam at a good pace around Long Point heading toward Saratoga Passage

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

Sat, Mar 30 - Crescent Bay (CRC2441)

CRC2441

15:15 - Headed into Crescent Bay.

photo by Sam Wallace, March 30, 2024

Sat, Mar 30 - Upper Saratoga Passage

12:05 - Michelle updates there are actually three grays close in off Polnell Point, Whidbey milling around. Several observers on bluff above watching. It’s all so beautiful.

11:47 - Michelle Smith called again to report two grays on the Whidbey side now heading very slowly toward Mariner Cove.

11:30 - 12:00 - Just to follow up from my earlier report - there are definitely two grays, and they came in to feed here at Mariners' Cove for a good 30 minutes. They are now heading down the beach toward Polnell.

11:30 - I’m watching a gray heading north past Mariner’s Cove. One is moving in closer for snacks, but I just discovered the second one.

photo by Marianne Parry, March 30, 2024

11:18 - Michelle called back to update the one gray headed over toward Rocky Point.

11:10 - Michelle Smith called to report two gray whales: one mid Saratoga Passage out from Polnell Point, Whidbey Island and looks milling/trending southbound; second gray is closer to shoreline of Rocky Point, Camano, also milling/trending southbound.

Sat, Mar 30 - Lower Saratoga Passage

15:27 - Spotted two gray whale directly in front of Langley Whale Bell Park. Appear to be moving north now.

Kris Clark

Sat, Mar 30 - Lower Saratoga Passage (CRC22 Earhart & CRC383 Casacde)

10:49 - CRC383 still milling straight out from Mabana boat launch with long downtimes, maybe drifting west. Haven't seen CRC22 for a few minutes but I think she's still off Summerland. Last update from me.

10:32 - CRC383 off Mabana facing north. CRC22 still off Summerland.

10:29 - At least one gray milling on Camano side of midchannel off Mabana.

10:20 - CRC22 off Summerland, facing south. Viewing from Mabana.

09:55 - South of Camano Island State Park now, long downtimes.

09:48 - Gray southbound south of Camano Island State Park boat launch. On Camano side but not hugging the shore.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

09:25 - Gray whale close to Camano side, southbound in Saratoga Passage, passing in front of Cama Beach State Park.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

Sat, Mar 30 - Lower Saratoga Passage (CRC53 Little Patch)

13:10 - CRC-53 is southbound at my map spot [approx. 48.046463, -122.410878].

Bart Rulon Wildlife

Sat, Mar 30 - Port Susan

17:00 - Port Susan a Gray whale spotted 300 yards off Tulalip Shores heading north.

John C Storbeck

Fri, Mar 29 - Penn Cove

12:10 - Two, maybe three, gray whales north of Snatellum Point and 100 yards west of green buoy, frolicking.

Erik Anderson

10:29 - He is east of Monroe Landing. They were headed west deeper in the cove. And Harriett spotted two more over by Long Point.

09:46 - Headed towards Monroe Landing.

09:28 - Two possibly more gray whales feeding in Penn Cove. Below our friend Robert's house no real direction of travel so far. They are on the north side of Penn Cove.

Kevin Phillips

Fri, Mar 29 - Upper Saratoga Passage

14:12 - Gray whale reported in northern Saratoga Passage out from Mariner Cove. No direction.

Joel B [Whale Alert app]

Fri, Mar 29 - Central Saratoga Passage

17:31 - Make that two grays - southbound.

17:27 - Another gray south bound passing Camano Island State Park - Camano side.

17:08 - Gray passed the state park and appears to be aiming for Elger or Mabana.

16:55 - Correction southbound very close.

16:51 - Gray whale close off the Camano Island State Park boat launch appears to be northbound.

Linda Aitkins

16:12 - Heading south. About half way between Baby Island navigational buoy and Baby Island.

15:59 - Spotted one gray whale just south of the Baby Island navigational buoy.

Martha Poppy Sinclair

16:21 - Viewing from Camano Island State Park - seeing a blow between Baby Island and Whidbey Island. To far away to tell direction of travel.

Linda Aitkins

14:42 - Volunteer Heather Anson called to report a gray whale about one and a half miles north of Hidden Beach. First heard the whale from bluff above and made it to the beach in time to see one surfacing, facing north. Hasn’t seen since. Water glassy calm.

14:45 - Still in same area.

14:42 - Two whales.

14:30 - Whale mid channel learn a half miles north of Hidden Beach no direction yet.

photo by Aaron Gill, March 29, 2024

11:28 - Now west of Baby Island, slowly heading south into Holmes Harbor.

10:43 - Now near the Baby Island navigational buoy. Still moving slowly, milling around.

10:08 - Spotted at least one gray whale in Saratoga Passage, between Baby Island and Elger Bay, heading north. Moving slowly, milling around.

Martha Poppy Sinclair

07:35 - Gray whale, one and a half miles north of Hidden Beach heading south off Whidbey shore.

photo by Aaron Gill, March 29, 2024

Fri, Mar 29 - Central Saratoga Passage (CRC22 Earhart)

13:40 - One (or possibly two) gray whales southbound Saratoga between Race Lagoon and Onomac, one for sure is #22 Earhart. Whidbey side of mid-channel.

photo by Jill Hein, March 29, 2024

Fri, Mar 29 - Lower Saratoga Passage (CRC22 Earhart & CRC383 Cascade)

19:35 - Last saw these two as I was walking back. Feeding and trending south, south of my earlier pin.

19:20 - Grays are feeding super close together, slowly working their way south. Tide is coming in fast so I may have to leave soon [approx. 48.104560, -122.437370].

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

19:00 - Two grays, Earhart and Cascade feeding off the point north of Mabana. I’m leaving.

Sam Wallace

18:33 - Two grays southbound close to Camano side north of Mabana [approx. 48.104976, -122.444429].

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

18:30 - One gray (I think Little Patch) off Mabana. Was hugging Camano, then turned and went mid channel. Stealthy behavior.

Sam Wallace

Fri, Mar 29 - Holmes Harbor (CRC53 Little Patch)

09:30 - 10:00 - Watched grey on the northside of Beverly Beach in Holmes Harbor northbound. Dropped cell off at phone doctor in Freeland and drove north to Baby Island and watched grey from 10:00 - 11:00 heading towards Baby Island and just to the green channel marker. It looked like he was just kind of milling around when I had left at 11:00. Appears to be Little Patch.

Marilyn Armbruster

Fri, Mar 29 - Puget Sound

17:13 - Whale now reported near Point Robinson and still headed south.

Sound Action

16:50 - It was slowly nearing Point Robinson southeast bound.

16:10 - Two blows viewing from Three Tree Point. Southbound.

Cindy Eckes Waddington

15:50 - Happy Friday Whale Day! Reports of a baleen whale (believed to be a gray) headed south near KVI…

Sound Action

13:51 - Saw two blows and back of gray whale southbound south of Vashon to Fauntleroy ferry lane view from Emma Schmitz. Mid channel.

Mary Hartmann

12:43 - Another gray whale just reported by the tug boat James T Quigg seen just southwest of Duwamish Head marker. I didn't personally see it though. No word of direction of travel.

John Patrick Darmody I

12:10 - My son sees blows from the Seattle ferry between Blake Island and Seattle. [Direction:] I believe SB [southbound] but can not confirm.

Shannon Barnum

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Anya Rifkin

Date of Sighting: March 29, 2024

Time: 11:16 AM

Species seen: Unsure

Number of animals seen: 1

Where seen: Elliott Bay

Direction of travel : NW toward Magnolia

Behaviors observed: Spray

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

Wed, Mar 27 - Saratoga Passage

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Gray Whale Sighting:

Sighting Time: Wed Mar 27 18:00:31 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 48.22409, -122.63706

Number Sighted: 3

Submitted Comments: Heading South between Long Point and Snatelum Point

Submitter Name: Hans Bjornestad

Whale Alert App

Tue, Mar 26 - Saratoga Passage

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Gray Whale Sighting:

Sighting Time: Tue Mar 26 18:05:55 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 48.07440,-122.46611 [Bells Beach]

Number Sighted: 1

Submitted Comments: Headed South

Submitter Name: Jennie Shink

Whale Alert App

Tue, Mar 26 - Possession Sound

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Gray Whale Sighting:

Sighting Time: Tue Mar 26 10:16:01 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 47.96661,-122.34390 [Clinton]

Number Sighted: 2

Submitter Name: Christopher Kent

Whale Alert App

Sun, Mar 24 - Puget Sound

09:22 - Just saw whale blow again still just off of Wing Point.

Sandra Trahan

MINKE WHALES

Fri, Mar 29 - Puget Sound

14:15 - I agree looks like a juvenile minke. I believe I saw this individual near the green can on the west side of Possession Bar.

Tony Tilt

15:29 - This guy stayed just ahead of my camera heading from Edmonds to Kingston! He was going north.

Teresa Campanelli

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Charles Davis

Date of Sighting: March 29, 2024

Time: 11:18 AM

Species seen: uncertain - looked like a short finned pilot due to its head shape however I am sure that it is less than 20' and looked small. looked grey/white/black but not in defined segments

Number of animals seen: 1

Where seen: (47.609251, -122.348351)

Direction of travel : South in an exploratory fashion, seen popping up every 5 minutes moving 100 - 200 feet at a time, currently next to West Seattle (47° 35' 40.0344'' N 122° 22' 26.6772'' W 12:21pm)

Behaviors observed: Traveling, Diving, Rounding Out, Spyhopping, Spouting

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

PORPOISES

Mon, Apr 1 - Central Puget Sound

14:49 - A whole bunch of harbor porpoises at Redondo Beach. To the left and right of MAST center. I’d say about 100. Lots of little ones. Some had rests on top of water and then would dive again. Couple of seals too. I watched for over an hour.

Kim Sherrod

Fri, Mar 29 - North Puget Sound

12:20 - Donna McCrea, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: KALEETAN Captain reports a pod of Dall's porpoises heading east upon approach to EDM.

ABOUT ORCA NETWORK/QUICK LINKS

Orca Network is a 501 c3 nonprofit organization, dedicated to raising awareness about the whales of the Pacific Northwest, and the importance of providing them healthy and safe habitats.

Orca Network's Whale Sighting Network involves citizens in helping researchers track the movement of whales, and encourages people to observe whales from their homes, businesses, ferries, and shorelines.

Whale reports are sent in to our Sighting Network and emailed out to researchers, agencies, and citizens on our network, and posted on our website (MAP of sightings also on website) and social media pages. Whale reports and observations are sent in by a variety of sources, and while we do our best to obtain accurate species and individual IDs, Orca Network does not guarantee the accuracy of any report or whale identification.

Report Sightings to Orca Network:

Call 1-866-ORCANET (1-866-672-2639) & choose sightings option
Email sightings@orcanetwork.org
Facebook: DM or post on our page
Website form: https://www.orcanetwork.org/report-sightings

Please include: Date/Time - Species (describe if unknown) - # of Animals - Location of Cetacean(s) - Direction of Travel & Behaviors

Visit Orca Network's Langley Whale Center - Whidbey Island:

Location: 105 Anthes Ave, Langley, WA 98260
Telephone: 1-360-221-7505
Hours: Generally open 11am-4pm, Thurs-Mon, but please call for current schedule.
Museum: Exhibits - Specimens - Educational Materials - Lending Library - Movies to view
Gift Shop: Books - DVDs & CDs - Field Guides - Clothing - Jewelry & more

LANGLEY WHALE CENTER Facebook

Be Whale Wise:

All marine mammals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Killer whales have special protection in Canadian and U.S. waters. Be sure to educate yourself about current protections, including regulations with specific distances and recommendations for viewing killer whales. The rules apply to all types of watercraft, including motor boats, sail boats, kayaks, and paddle boards in Washington State.

Report Harassment of Whales:

In WA/US waters call NOAA Enforcement: 1-800-853-1964
In CANADIAN waters call DFO Violations Hotline: 1-800-465-4336

(Include watercraft name, registration #, description, and photos/video when possible)

BE WHALE WISE - Regulations & Guidelines