March 26, 2023

J pod in Holmes Harbor.

photo by Rachel Haight, March 19, 2023

SUMMARY

Sightings through March 20 include:

Southern Residents - On March 18, J pod was in Puget Sound and made their way north, where they were heard passing south Whidbey northbound just before midnight. K & L pod were in Monterey Bay!

On March 19, J pod spent the entire day going north and south in Holmes Harbor.

On March 20, J pod made their way south through Puget Sound, making another beautiful pass by Point Robinson.

In next report: On March 21, J pod made their way north through Possession Sound and into Saratoga Passage.

On March 22, J pod spent much of the day milling at the south end of Admiralty Inlet before making their way north as dark fell, ending their visit to Puget Sound.

On March 25, J pod showed up in Haro Strait off SJI and made their way north.

Bigg's Killer Whales - On March 18, T46s, T87, and T124A2s headed to South Puget Sound and passed under the Fox Island bridge. The T100s & T101 were in the SJIs.

On March 19, T46s split up from T87 & T124A2s, but both groups traveled north through Puget Sound, about an hour apart from each other.

On March 20, a group of transients with no positive IDs made their way north out of Puget Sound. T49A2 & T49C were spotted in the SJIs.

In next report: On March 22, the T65As (minus T65A5) arrived in Puget Sound and went under the Agate Pass Bridge.

On March 23, the T65As made their way into Dyes Inlet.

On March 24, the T65As headed into Hood Canal in the evening.

On March 25 & March 26, the T65As spent the day hanging out in Hood Canal.

Humpbacks - One report off northwest Whidbey Island.

Gray Whales - CRC22, CRC53, CRC383, CRC2440, CRC2441, CRC2259 spotted.

In next report: On March 26, CRC21 Shackleton was confirmed back along with CRC2356! Twelve grays confirmed in Puget Sound: 21, 22, 53, 56, 185, 383, 531, 2249, 2259, 2356, 2440, 2441.

EVENTS:

APR 15 AT 11 AM – APR 16 AT 4 PM

Welcome the Whales Festival & Parade

Langley, WA

Please join us for our Welcome the Whales Festival April 15th and 16th in Langley, WA!

Welcome the Whales is an annual event to honor and celebrate the arrival of a special group of gray whales known as the “Sounders”. These whales represent almost 20 animals, part of the Eastern Pacific gray whale population. During their northern migration from Baja California, they break off the migration route to feed on ghost shrimp for two to three months each spring in the North Puget Sound waters. This year’s event is in honor of #49 Patch, one of the original Sounders gray whales who we lost in 2021.

The festival includes costume making, a parade through Langley, waterside ceremony, educational presentation by Cascadia Research Collective, Langley beach clean-up, and fundraiser gray whale cruise. We hope to see you there!

Saturday April 15th

11:00 – Costume making at the Langley United Methodist Church

1:30 – Whale and Critter Parade through Langley – come dressed as your favorite whale or marine animal

2:00 – Waterside ceremony at Whale Bell Park

3:30 – Educational Presentation by John Calambokidis of Cascadia Research Collective. This presentation will be held as a hybrid in-person/virtual. Register here for virtual.

Sunday April 16th

10:00 – Langley beach clean-up beginning at Whale Bell Park

2:00 – Fundraiser Gray Whale Cruise with Puget Sound Express. Leaves from Langley Marina. Cost $100/person. Register for the cruise here.

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SUNDAY, APRIL 16, 2023 AT 2 PM – 4 PM

Welcome the Whales Gray Whale Cruise

Langley Marina

Join Orca Network for a Gray Whale Cruise with Puget Sound Express to meet the Sounders!

Our local Puget Sound gray whales, fondly referred to as the “Sounders”, represent about 20 animals, part of the larger population of the Eastern North Pacific gray whales. During their northern migration from Baja California, these individuals break off the migration route to feed on ghost shrimp each spring in the North Puget Sound waters.

You may have an opportunity to meet some of these amazing whales during our Gray Whale Cruise. The $100 registration fee includes a two-hour trip with Puget Sound Express crew and Orca Network staff and volunteers. Proceeds benefit Orca Network's education and outreach programs.

For more information about Welcome the Whales and Gray Whale Cruise registration please visit here.

Mon, Mar 20 - Puget Sound (J Pod)

Spring equinox came flooding in with some Jpod love! Today had it all, sunshine, microburst downpours, big dark fluffy storm clouds, and black and white bodies that moved through the Salish like waves of ribbons as they traveled south. The leaders hit the north end of Vashon with some multi-directional foraging, giving me a little scare as they cut east, psyching me out there was an impending flip. But soon, in came the other groups, with less foraging and more playful surface activity as they picked up speed and pushed southbound. On approach to Point Robinson, the leaders led with some breaching, and soon they were popping up like popcorn as they got close to the point. Their energy fed so many smiles and happy sounds of laughter and excitement, watching them travel by with breaches and tails slaps. It was one of those passes where you don't know where to look, as things are happening all at once, and you can't quite gather all of their amazingness in one eyeful. I followed them south, finally ending my work day as the sun hit the horizon, watching blows in the distance, and fins disappear into the gathering dusk as they cut back east after passing through the south end ferry lane. Wanted to share a little whale love before bedtime and gaze a little longer at the wonderful whales of Jpod, and as always, so grateful for any time spent with them.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

photos by Marla Smith, March 20, 2023

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video by Noelle Morris, March 20, 2023

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Baby orca breach from between Vashon and Dune peninsula.

Corey Bartlett

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I also spotted at Point Defiance in Tacoma between the Vashon ferry and Owen Beach. Mostly headed the Owen Beach direction. My guess would be at least 4 or 5.

Loren Halstrom

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Video compilation from today! My first time ever seeing them this close, what a gift it is to live here!

Amber Johnson

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19:45 - East of ferry lanes and moving slowly eastbound as darkness falls. They were east of Dune headed east.

Amy Carey, Sound Ac

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19:40 - Just left Dune, could still see them heading east on the south end of Vashon.

19:23 - They're back on the east side of Vashon. Some are trending north. Stragglers to the southeast of Vashon. Viewing from Owen.

Cherie StOurs

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19:19 - They’re heading east and some are back in the ferry lanes.

Jami Cantrell

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19:11 - Holy moly! That was spectacular! I went hoping to see three, what’s the actual count? They were spread out all over.

Chrystal Lampman

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Linda Cohan

Date of Sighting: 3/20/2023

Time: 7:00 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 3

Where seen: All along the South Shore of Vashon Island. Crossed behind Tahlequah ferry terminal.

Direction of travel : Groups were seen going both east and west all along the south shore of Vashon Island

Behaviors observed: Traveling and some were milling

If orcas, any males?: Yes, several large dorsal fins

Any unusual markings?: Too far to see

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Saw several groups of 3+ animals spread out along the shore. Other Point Defiance Park visitors said they had observed them for a couple hours prior to our observation

Photos available?: No

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18:58 - Orcas foraging off southwest corner of Vashon at Colvos/Dalco spread to mid channel.

Amy Carey, Sound Action

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18:50 - Foraging just west of the ferry lanes. Some by Vashon side of mid channel and some more close to Owen side of the channel.

Jami Cantrell

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18:52 - They are milling about in front of Owen beach, mid channel between the beach and Vashon.

18:41 - Off Owen Beach westbound.

Callie Deegan

18:10 - Whales just approaching the south end Vashon ferry lanes headed west.

Amy Carey, Sound Action

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18:08 - Maija Holston, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: Salish Master reports a small pod of orca 5-6 whales 1/4 mile off PT DEF.  

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From Point Robinson earlier.

Orca and faint rainbow!

back of camera photos by Jami Cantrell, March 20, 2023

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17:44 - On the Point Defiance ferry. See them southwest of Tango [buoy]. 

Anna Panasiuk Simmons

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17:38 - Still seeing multiple blows from Dune Peninsula, no direction.

Cherie StOurs

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17:30 - Very spread out at the channel buoy off of southern tip of Maury, still southbound.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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17:30 - A pod just passed Dash Point. Heading south quickly towards Dalco Passage.

Eric Elgar

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17:23 - Past Northilla Beach and still heading south.

Carly Kaiser

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17:07 - See them breaching between Browns Point Lighthouse and island. Island side.

Traci Wuchter

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17:04 - Seeing multiple splashes from Dune near Des Moines.

Cherie StOurs

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17:02 - Groups still spread, now south of Gold Beach, approaching Sandy Shores, island side of mid channel, southbound, still breaching as they go.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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16:48 - See them jumping directly across from Dash Point!

Carly Kaiser

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16:37 - Across the water at Saltwater State Park and was able to catch their splashes at that pass. 

Katie Chevalier

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16:24 - Beautiful pass at Point Robinson, spread out groups, southbound travel, some foraging, island side to mid channel, breaching playful gorgeous Jpod.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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16:02 - Just north of Point Robinson heading south with lots of breaches.

Dan Hyde

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15:57 - Just south of marina now. Point Robinson on deck.

15:50 - Now at Des Moines Marina. 

15:44 - Approaching Des Moines waterfront.

Scott Hill

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15:49 - From Des Moines marina, still steady southbound spread out. Looking from marina to just south of KVI.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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15:42 - Approaching Point Robinson, southbound, island side of channel, spread out.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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15:33 - Between Normandy Park and Vashon.

Scott Hill

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15:27 - Seeing blows in line with KVI, island side of channel, southbound, research vessel present.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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15:02 - Leaders passing yellow channel marker at Three Tree Point. Steady southbound pace.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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14:55 - Still heading south, kind of spread out, between research boat and sailboat - north of channel marker. 

14:37 - Just saw group near Vashon side from Seahurst.

Susan Plecko

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14:33 - Seeing a few slowly southbound just north of Three Tree Point. East of midchannel. Research boat with them.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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14:32 - All south of Glen Acres now, steady southbound, some mainland side of mid channel very spread out.

14:17 - Seeing group just east side of mid channel now, still southbound in line with Glen Acres, very spread.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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14:10 - Approaching Dilworth headed south!

Jami Cantrell

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14:02 - Seeing some directional changes, heading east, and now south again.

13:51 - Can see fins in line with Dolphin Point, mid channel to island side of, southbound.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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13:51 - [approx. 47.491082, -122.441422].

Jessica Crockett 

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13:50 - Beautiful pass on the ferry! Seems like all have passed the Dolphin Point area headed south! Some close in to Vashon.

Jami Cantrell

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13:49 - Donna Sanders, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: ISSAQUAH Captain reports 6 Orca S of Dolphin Point.

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13:45 - Southbound. Getting closer to the northern tip of Vashon Island. Lots of breaching and tail slapping.

13:38 - Leaders now past southern tip of Blake Island, southbound.

13:34 - Slowly trending southbound. Small research boat now in view. Leaders are almost to the southern tip of Blake Island.

13:21 - Viewing from Shorewood on the Sound. Leader(s) are in front of Blake Island southbound.

Shari Tarantino

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13:24 - Viewing from SW Ida street W Seattle. Mid channel. All spread out. Southbound. Past Blake Island now. Wow this high vantage point is awesome.

Jessica Crockett

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13:21 - Somewhere around here [approx. 47.534560, -122.440342], southbound.

13:19 - Viewing from the Fauntleroy ferry. Still southbound approaching Blake Island/ferry lanes.

Jami Cantrell

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13:19 - Viewing from Lincoln Park. Just passing Blake Island southbound. At least 4.

Cari Brumfield

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13:11 - Group (6) is trending on the east side of the north end of Vashon. Viewing from Constellation Park.

12:55 - Now trending on the east side of Vashon. Viewing from Constellation Park Alki.

12:40 - Group of 6 (?) trending south on the east side of Blake breaching and tail slapping. Followed by research skiff.

Patti Waterfall

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12:46 - Off Constellation Park in West Seattle. Manchester State Park in background.

photo by Robin Sinner, March 20, 2023

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12:37 - We just spotted two from the ferry close to Bainbridge. One was a male.

Caitlin Robinson Nilsen

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12:37 - Leaders appear to be south of the cargo ship heading south. From Constellation Park.

Greg Snyder

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12:22 - From Alki Point Lighthouse (vantage point to Restoration Point Bainbridge Island) leaders passing far west channel, continued southbound travel, very leisurely.

Brittany Noelle

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12:01 - Whales moving through ferry lanes southbound, spread out.

Sue Surowiec Larkin

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11:40 - Viewing from Alki, southbound [approx. 47.593777, -122.470897].

Jami Cantrell

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11:37 - 2-3 orcas outside Elliott Bay breaching, spyhopping southbound midchannel.

Sue Surowiec Larkin

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11:32 - Most Jpod trailers have passed West Point Lighthouse continued southbound travel, loosely spread out in groups of 2-5 all the way across the channel.

Brittany Noelle

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11:22 - Viewing from end of Valley Road, BI. Currently 8-10 whales passing West Point Lighthouse, southbound, east of midchannel.

10:55 - Two orcas southbound Kitsap side, sight line Bainbridge across to Golden Gardens.

Sue Surowiec Larkin

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11:02 - Moving with a purpose. 4 breaches.

10:56 - Picking up about 6 more. Same as Ariel maybe? One male. I think a baby with their momma. Southbound east of mid channel.

Gnar McKnee

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10:44 - Just watched the whales go by in front of Blue Ridge beach, heading towards Golden Gardens.

Lauren Rowland

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10:40 - Seeing blows from Richmond Beach for the last 10 minutes. One big male. Milling. Likely off Carkeek, east of midchannel.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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10:28 - 5 or 6 spread out steady southbound. Viewing from Sunset Hill toward Fay Bainbridge.

Gnar McKnee

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10:25 - Donna Sanders, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: Just got a call. Off Restoration, SB, group of 15. Walla Walla stopped for them.

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J45 Se-Yi'-Chn

ID by Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

09:20 - We saw at least two orca pods this morning traveling south. One pod near the oil docks at Edmonds and one near Kingston.

photo by Logan Baker, March 20, 2023

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08:55 - Maybe this will help ID. Taken from nearby WDFW boat.

April Bosley

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08:52 - Still just south of the ferry crossing, saw several individuals spread out. Somewhat southbound and on the Kingston side.

Trevor Tillman

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08:51 - Kingston fast ferry - saw 3 between ferry and fast ferry lane. They are still east of Kingston. They were swimming east, toward mid-channel when I spotted them [approx. 47.780204, -122.460448].

Jenny Klis

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08:22 - WSN volunteer Sara Frey just called to report seeing at least 5 orcas off Apple Tree Cove heading southbound. Male and female in lead and female and male trailing, now south of the ferry traffic lanes. Long down times. Orcas are too far off for great photos and conditions somewhat foggy so getting IDs will be tough but she'll try. She is leaning residents but cannot confirm.

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08:17- 3-5 mid channel on Kingston/Edmonds ferry. Slowly moving southish.

Casey Bizell

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07:39 - Laurie Baker, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 07:46 to report: Log entry 0739hrs: Vessel reports via 800MHz spotting a small pod of orca, approximately 3 in number, located East of Apple Tree Cove, heading in a southbound direction. 

Sun, Mar 19 - Holmes Harbor (J Pod)

18:58 - Just saw a pod of orcas heading south to the head of Holmes Harbor. Counted at least four.

Jan Emerson Dodge

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18:08 - A bunch of spyhops.

17:39 - Slowly making their way south from Saratoga Beach, mid channel. Coming into view again from Rainbow Lane.

Emily Wandres

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17:15 - Right out from Beverly Beach.

Fell Cheston

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17:05 - Just saw them at Wonn Road. A huge thank you to the person who let us use their binoculars. Seeing orcas in the wild fulfilled my friend's birthday wish!

Sarah Silverman Pucci

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17:01 - Viewing from Wonn Road, some have turned south again! Saw one sweet spyhop. They're way across on the east side.

Bonnie Gretz

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16:58 - Some flipped south.

Yanwei Cai

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16:58 - They flipped again. Got near to the north end and now seeing south facing pod.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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16:47 - Looks like they might have flipped? Heading southeast in the harbor closer to Baby Island side.

Emily Wandres

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16:51 - Just passing Baby Island now. One small spyhop too!

Fell Cheston

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16:48 - J pod loosely group mid channel nearing north end Holmes Harbor. Too soon to say which direction they’ll choose [approx. 48.085765, -122.533200]. We can hear their exhalations from across. Sweet spyhops along the way. So yummy.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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16:46 - Heading slowly north towards Greenbank/Hidden Beach. Hard to determine exact location from our view point.

16:36 - We see them from Camano State Park just north of Baby Island.

Charvet Drucker

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16:41 - Headed out of the harbor and appear to be headed toward Greenbank/Hidden Beach direction.

14:16 - Grouped up tight and headed north. Mid harbor approaching Saratoga Beach.

Dan Gulden

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15:49 - Be still our hearts. J pod tightly grouped steady northbound just north Honeymoon Bay. We can hear the collective power of their exhalations. Today is a beautiful and good day with lots of lovely friends both human and orca.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network and others.

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15:40 - Northbound from Honeymoon Bay.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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15:30 - On Swiftsure, they are heading out (again!) from Holmes Harbor on the west side.

Bonnie Gretz

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15:27 - They are approaching Honeymoon Bay, northbound.

Mark Osikowicz

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Bill Schafer

Date of Sighting: 3/19/2023

Time: 3:20 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 7

Where seen: Holmes Harbor, about 1 mi north of Honeymoon Bay

Direction of travel : northwest

Behaviors observed: surfacing once every 5 minute or so. (hunting?)

If orcas, any males?: I think so

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

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15:00 - Js have flipped back north again. In line and groups appear to be moving north and have moved offshore a bit from west side of the harbor.

14:45 - Not sure if entire lot but there’s a large group down approaching Freeland. Freeland Park offers lots of public viewing options.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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14:48 - Jpod DEEP into Holmes Harbor.

photos by Cindi Crowder Rausch, March 19, 2023

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photos by Rachel Haight, March 19, 2023

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photos by Dori Dace, March 19, 2023

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14:58 - It looks like they turned north again.

14:46 - Moving south fast, just passed the golf course.

14:35 - Still in Holmes Harbor near Honeymoon Bay. They surface and mill around then disappear, they have moved south on the west side. It looks like about 10 of them.

Cindi Bowen

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14:10 - They have moved further south. Back near Honeymoon/Beverly and still appears to be moving south at this time but viewing from distance. Wild & lovely.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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14:09 - Seen from Honeymoon Bay. Southbound probably 10 or so.

Neil Hathi

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13:40 - Js have stalled again and are facing southbound at the moment in resting line, but probably not committed. In the meantime 9 swans just flew north skimming just above waters surface, river otter swam by underwater, and the sea lions have all rafted up and look pretty cozy with their flippers up and bodies all cuddled together, and lots of eagles and sea birds still.

13:23 - J pod milling, making directional changes still as they making slow progress north between Saratoga Beach and Dines Point generally. Spied a spyhop bit ago. So incredibly peaceful out here.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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12:50 - In Honeymoon Bay. Reminds me of when we used to refer to them as”J Pod Group B”’.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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13:09 - Just coming up to Dines Point. Gorgeous. Lot of spyhopping a bit ago, was wild.

Dan Gulden

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12:57 - All trending north for the last 15 minutes now.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute

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12:57 - Js now northbound generally in two loose groups.

12:50 - Because it’s so lovely, within my binos view lined up: seabirds, relaxed resting sea lions, harbor porpoise and J pod in the distance. Same place (generally Honeymoon Bay/South if Beverly Beach) same milling with directional changes.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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12:35 - Looks like milling viewing from Rainbow Lane.

Rebecca Berger

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12:20 - Flipped back south.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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11:53 - From Honeymoon Bay on west side of channel. Staying under about five minutes.

Forrest Wendt

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11:45 - All of Js in one group steady northbound about abeam of Beverly Beach. Can confirm J26, J27, J38, J39, J45.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute

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11:40 - Last saw a dozen milling between Honeymoon Bay and Holmes Harbor golf course!

Missy Main

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11:20 - They have changed directions south but pretty much have been milling in the same general area south and north of Honeymoon Bay. Southbound now.

Marilyn Armbruster

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11:15 - From the community center they have flipped again and heading south really slowly.

Fell Cheston

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11:15 - They’ve been in same [spot] milling, went under for long time and now surfacing again facing south again, but not sure committed. Same place as my 10:55 update.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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11:00 - They are heading back north and now between Beverly Beach and Honeymoon Bay.

Marilyn Armbruster

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10:55 - J pod has flipped. They are northbound at about between Honeymoon Bay and southern Beverly Beach. Still grouped. Mid channel.

10:20 - Is stunning. J pod is grouped up tight in resting moving deeper into the harbor. Perfectly peaceful and stunning vision.

10:15 - Confirmed Js. Just saw our favorite Cookie!

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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10:05 - Approaching Honeymoon Bay southbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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10:02 - From Baby Island area, we see them about 2 miles in the harbor, we think heading deeper.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network and Marilyn Armbruster

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10:01 - I saw them too!

Nicole Vanderhoop

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10:00 - Watching them from S Honeymoon Bay Road - they are closer to Greenbank side mid channel and heading south slowly, about to be out from the Honeymoon Lake dock.

Emily Wandres

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09:20 - Greenbank, Whidbey Island. Appeared to be ten or more orcas. First spotted west of Baby Island, about 1/4 mile from Greenbank shoreline. Heading steadily south into Holmes Harbor.

Martha Poppy Sinclair

Sat, Mar 18 - Puget Sound (J Pod)

23:59 - Final update as I do have an hour drive home: at midnight, we had heard no further blows. The ones from a half hour prior didn't continue beyond the first cluster we heard. So they did NOT pass by back south at that point. Really hoping they'll be around Whidbey in daylight tomorrow. Fingers crossed!

23:32 - Blows stopped around 23:05, hearing some again now. Still to our north. They love flipping back south in the ferry lanes so we're going to stay a bit longer to see if they come back by.

22:58 - Still hearing blows north of Glendale.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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22:37 - Staffmate Rachel Haight just called Alisa at 22:37 to share: ...after a long adventure off island with buddy Dori Dace to visit with J pod down south, they decided once off the ferry back to Whidbey they would prolong their adventure and head to Glendale in hopes they might hear J pod in the dark if J pod decided to head up into Possession Sound. After 40 minutes of waiting in the dark it happened: the sounds of orca exhalations spread across Possession and still trailing by while on the phone. 

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19:20 - They are super far over on Kitsap side of the triangle. I am only able to see one male, but it’s a bit hazy, so more than likely he’s the only one I can see because of the large dorsal, but he’s about midway between ferry and Eglon.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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19:05 - About 15 minutes ago we saw a few stragglers from the Edmonds marina. Still northbound on the Kitsap side. But we got distracted with all the escaping dogs at low tide from the dog beach and lost them. Should all be north of ferry line now!

Ashley Johnson

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18:50 - Many orcas spread north to south west of midchannel steadily traveling northbound. Babies and mamas, at least three males and many others, sightline Apple Tree Cove to Edmonds and north to Possession Point drifting off towards the triangle.

18:39 - From Apple Tree Point, dramatically zoomed and cropped. Pardon the blurry bird... blurd. 

photo by Donna Green Van Renselaar, March 18, 2023

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18:41 - Viewing from bench on Sunset Ave! Just north of ferry terminal!

Melissa Foss

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18:40 - More coming from the south of Apple Tree Point. Kitsap side. Baby porpoising!

18:20 - Eyes on from Apple Tree Point. Leaders just south of the ferry, Kitsap side of shipping lanes. Tail lobs. Steady northbound.

photo by Sara Frey, March 18, 2023

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18:26 - Maija Holston, WSF Marine Ops emailed to report: whales 3/18 SPOKANE Master reports pod of orca 6~ headed NB in the traffic lanes between EDM/KING.

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18:15 - In ferry lanes now. Still northbound mid channel. Viewing from Kingston.

Candace Gavin

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17:55 - Watching from Marine Beach Park. Closer to Kingston side. Will be in the ferry traffic lanes soon. Going north.

Teresa Bara

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17:48 - Directly west of Kayu Kayu AC Park. Heading northbound but spread out still.

Kristin Mackenzie

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17:45 - Northbound past Richmond Beach.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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17:45 - Viewing from Apple Tree Cove looking south east, I see two small groups midchannel, about 8 total. One is by a little orange boat and the other is slightly behind. Trending northbound but they are diving in all sorts of directions.

Jenny Klis

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17:21 - Seeing them right where you circled from Richmond Beach!

Melissa Foss

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17:05 - We just saw a group of ~7 orcas from the lookout point near the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center in Discovery Park. Seemed to be due west of Golden Gardens on the other side of the channel, close to Fay Bainbridge Park. Heading north! 

Monica Naef-Sheffer

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17:07 - [approx. 47.754407, -122.459157].

16:42 - Viewing straight west from Carkeek! Mid channel, north bound.

Brian Hoffman

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16:16 - I'm pretty sure it's all of J pod tightly grouped heading north off Shilshole east of mid channel.

Joe Olson

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16:02 - Midhannel heading north from Golden Gardens.

Nicole Damron

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16:01 - Still northbound all grouped up on east side of channel. Off Shilshole.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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15:57 - Kimberly called back to report Js still steady northbound her point of view north of Shilshole mid channel.

15:37 - Kimberly Sylvester called to report J pod grouped up heading northbound east of mid channel near tug & barge West Point area.

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15:50 - Straight out from Golden Gardens closer to other side headed north.

Jeanette Dorner

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15:26 - Viewing from Sunset Hill! Seeing lots of splashes/activity near West Point.

Marlena Skrobe

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15:48 - They are heading north in a tight pod. Straight out from Shilshole, mid channel.

15:21 - Heading towards Shilsole now. I can see them from Sunset Hill Park.

Vanessa Egerdahl

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15:20 - All grouped up northbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

photo by Rachel Haight, March 18, 2023

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photos by Dori Dace, March 18, 2023

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15:05 - Blows visible from West Point. Looks like they've moved a little west of midchannel but still northbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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14:39 - At least three bulls in the lead and others. But viewing from my porch with binoculars.

14:34 - Maybe pod I was seeing mid sound, between Yeomalt Point and 4 Mile Rock now. Trending north.

Matt McCulloch

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14:18 - Agreed! Lots of activity in the area still! 

14:05 - They seem to be stalled out right in front of the beach. Some breaching and tail slapping.

13:57 - Viewing from Alki Beach, 63rd Ave. Northbound!

Chris Ramirez

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14:00 - Donna Sandstrom called to report all of J pod have cleared Alki Point, quite wonderful. Slowly going north, spread out with some groups. Nice viewing conditions.

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13:35 - Cute little fluke off Constellation Park.

photos by Mary Hartmann, March 18, 2023

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13:30 - Just got off phone with Rachel Haight, Orca Network who reports Js are spread, almost to Alki point with some on mainland side which is what ended our call . All northbound.

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12:50 - Out of view from Brace Point, headed north.

Steve Rice

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12:38 - Fins that were in view have now moved out of view, looking like possible flip north.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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12:37 - From Lincoln Park. Looks like most are headed north now.

John Guthrie

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12:41 - At least two look like they’re going north now. Passing Vashon ferry lane.

12:25 - Lots of splashing closer to Vashon, just south of the ferry route.

Katie Parker

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12:13 - From Dilworth looking toward Fauntleroy terminal, looks like possible surf activity in midchannel.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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12:05 - Looking well southwest of Brace Point.

Steve Rice

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12:00 - 12:25 - From our vantage point south of Brace Point, we watched ~7 pass by slowly south, spread out across the channel. Very slow dolphin rolls. Then as a ship headed north up the channel at least one turned and followed in its wake a while splashing occasionally. Then the others also turned and headed north but hung out for a while presumably fishing. A few big leaps and splashes. At least one very big male. 

Megan McNally

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11:54 - Seeing fins just past ferry lanes now, directional changes with foraging activity, spread out.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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11:48 - Seeing the large male from northeast Vashon park, and other following [approx. 47.497573, -122.422765].

Samuel Gorman

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J27 Blackberry

From the 11:15 Fauntleroy to Vashon sailing. +IDs for J26, J27, J39, and J44. Whales spread all across the channel with J44 and many others on east side, J26 in midchannel, J27 and J39 with few others on east side. All southbound.

photo and ID by Ariel Yseth, March 18, 2023

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11:42 - Message from Ariel has J26 Mike and J27 Blackberry present. J11s on Vashon side, Mike is mid channel.

11:07 - Ariel Yseth had called to report seeing orcas from Lincoln Park/Fauntleroy area. Still north of the lanes.

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11:38 - They are spread out, 3-4 still north of Fauntleroy and Vashon ferry lane. Going slowly south.

Brian Hollomon

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11:10 - Can anyone identify this one?

photo by Greg Snyder, March 18, 2023

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11:07 - 7-8 orcas trending south on the east side of Vashon. Just passed the ferry terminal. 2 large males(?) leading with 2 much smaller following. The rest bringing up the rear. What a great day for viewing.

Patti Waterfall

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10:55 - Definitely multiple pods, they split up at Vashon Island north end terminal. All southbound.

Liza Deras

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10:45 - I’m seeing some by Constellation Park. 

Carolynn Howsley

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10:46 - Taken from here about 5 min ago [approx. 47.585046, -122.457444]. 

photo by Mitch Boyer, March 18, 2023

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10:35 - Possibly 7 to 10 orcas spread from Restoration Point to Blake southbound can see without binoculars from Constellation Park.

Mary Hartmann

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Jerry Harter

Date of Sighting: 3/18/2023

Time: 10:30 AM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen: 6

Where seen: Crossed the Walla Walla 10:00am ferry route to Bremerton while east of Bainbridge

Direction of travel : Moving southeast at steady pace

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: Don’t know

Any unusual markings?: Didn’t see

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Ferry stopped for about 15 minutes while they passed. Water was very calm. I have three photos but they’re not very good.

There were 6-8 orcas that passed in two sets of 3-4

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

10:30 - I just reported sighting about 6-8 orcas that crossed the route of the WALLA WALLA 10:00 ferry run at about 10:30 this morning. The ferry stopped while they crossed. They crossed in 2 sets. 

photo by Jerry Harter, March 18, 2023

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J38 Cookie

10:33 - Just spotted from ferry [J38].

back of camera photo by Sue Surowiec Larkin, March 18, 2023

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We saw them on our way to Seattle on the ferry. North side of the ferry.

Amy Noel

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10:15 - At least 5 traveling south just outside Eagle Harbor along Bainbridge side. Seen from the ferry.

Hawley Wallace

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At least 5 came southbound and passed behind the late 09:45 Bainbridge to Seattle ferry.

Mike Hogan

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10:04 - Kimberly Sylvester called back, she is seeing spread out large number of orcas, including at least 3 males, spread from at least Eagle Harbor to Rockaway, Bainbridge (that's her current view range). Southbound slowly. Behavior is more resident like but due to distance she still cannot confirm.

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10:04 - Spread from Eagle Harbor to Restoration Point, view from 64th and Alki, west in channel.

Mary Hartmann

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09:40 - Kimberly called back to report she found few more to the south of the others south of the ferry traffic lanes. All southbound.

09:37 - Kimberly Sylvester called to report seeing at least 3 (including male and one spirited one) about 1/2 mile apart north of Elliott Bay on Kitsap side mid-channel, leisurely southbound. Too far away to see saddles. They are approaching ferry traffic lanes.

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09:31 - Just saw two or three dorsal fins closer to the Seattle side from the Bainbridge Ferry. Very distant, but exciting!

Whitney Stapleton

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08:45 - Orcas (At least 6 including a male) mid channel moving south directly out from Discovery Park [North Seattle]. I thought I might have on the first big male [seen open saddle patch] but everything after that was closed, seemed like at least 3 family groups lots of whales, probably 15-20 came by.

Alex Meilleur 

Sat, Mar 18 - Monterey Bay (K & L Pod)

What an absolutely fantastic and once in a lifetime opportunity for our passengers, crew, and biologists alike yesterday on 3/18/23. We spent a brief time with the Southern Resident Killer Whales, an endangered population from the Pacific Northwest. This group is different from our Bigg's (transient) killer whales in some physical characteristics, culture, and also the prey that they go after. SRKWs primarily eat salmon, which we are happy to report they found yesterday! We documented some of the whales foraging, and even wearing "salmon hats (coming up with salmon on their rostrum/head)!" We have identified members of both L and K pods, with the help of various research organizations in the PNW. The last time parts of these groups were in Monterey was March 31, 2019. These whales are endangered largely due to running out of their favorite food source in their main range - chinook salmon. We are so humbled to know that we were able to document them feeding and provide an opportunity for so many people to experience the presence of these whales. This population has inspired so many people, including many of our crew, and we are still in awe of yesterday. 

Monterey Bay Whale Watch

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13:00 - Monterey Bay. I know that you have most likely already received photos from most of the Moss Landing and Monterey whale watching companies that witnessed this encounter also, but figured I would send in our photos also in case any individuals were missed. We were the first boat to come across the pod, hence why the coordinates from my report are much further north than others. All photos taken by passenger Samuel Boyce; heavily cropped from a distance. I might have more photos to submit later as I am still waiting on some passengers to email me their shots. I was not on the boat for this encounter but am the main Naturalist that deals with [&] submits all reports. Please let me know if you have any questions! Thanks. See March 22 Whale Sighting Report for photos.

Sydney Minges, Santa Cruz Whale Watching

Fri, Mar 17 - Puget Sound

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Orca Sighting:

Sighting Time: Fri Mar 17 13:33:56 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 47.33879,-122.53385 [SW Vashon]

Number Sighted: 1

Submitter Name: Mike Spranger 

Whale Alert App

Mon, Mar 20 - SJIs (T49A2 & T49C)

13:55 - T49A2 and T49C eastbound through the Wasp Islands.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

Mon, Mar 20 - Puget Sound 

13:49 - Donna Sanders, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: PUYALLUP- Captain reports 3 Orca off of Apple Cove.

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12:50 - Traveling northbound in the southbound traffic lanes off Point Jefferson. Saw probably 8, two very large, some medium, and a couple pups.

Bob Kruger

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Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Orca Sighting:

Sighting Time: Mon Mar 20 11:25:31 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 47.62680,-122.41002

Number Sighted: 3

Submitter Name: Michael Costigliola

Whale Alert App

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11:10 - Saw distant dorsal just east of the West Point lighthouse off Magnolia, westbound. View from Duwamish Head.

Mary Hartmann

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10:36 - Four whales in the middle of Elliott Bay slowly northbound. Viewing from Pier 57.

Casey Dean

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10:13 - Laurie Baker, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 10:21 to report: Log entry 1013hrs: Vessel WALLA WALLA reports via 800MHz spotting three orca at their location, off Duwamish Head, heading eastbound into Elliott Bay. 

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09:05 - Eyes on whales from West Point viewing towards Duwamish Head. Appear off Magnolia bluffs. Unclear direction of travel.

Brittany Noelle

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08:30 - I saw orcas (3?) from the BI-Sea 7:55 ferry, in Elliot Bay, north of the ferry lanes just south of the marina. Heading northwest.

Heather Parr

Sun, Mar 19 - Puget Sound (T46s)

Note: After days of traveling together, the T46s split up from T87 & T124A2s. Both groups were northbound through Puget Sound with the T46s leading by about an hour or two.

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18:20 - 4-6 orca northbound off Lagoon Point mid channel. Moving fast and long dives.

Bill Setter

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16:18 - Ones by Eglon just now passed Point No Point. Headed northbound towards Mutiny Bay.

Sarah Hallberg

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photo by Stan Gunter, March 19, 2023

T46D Strider

12:32 - I have photos of two males at least one Strider, the other I can't tell for sure, I think it's Thor.

photo by Jim Pasola, March 19, 2023

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12:25 - T46s northbound [approx. 47.713057, -122.489654].

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

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12:23 - Viewing from Sunset Hill, can see them north of the whale watching boat, off Fay. 

Elise Snoey

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12:22 - There's at least three whales moving off to the north, difficult for me to see at this point.

12:17 - Directly off of Fay Bainbridge, lone male looked like possibly Strider, PSE boat on the scene also. I just arrived and that's all I've seen, was drifting northbound now down for a long time.

Jim Pasola

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12:16 - Northbound just north of Faye Bainbridge.

Kelly Johnson

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12:00 - South of Fay Bainbridge, still northbound.

Tammy Ash

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11:52 - We were at Skiff Point. They headed more mid channel, but should be off Fay Bainbridge by now.

11:33 - Off Skiff Point right now.

Sean Osborn

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10:45 - North of Yeomalt Point as seen from 64th Alki. Three orcas.

Steve Rice

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10:33 - Straight out to the stadiums from the Bainbridge ferry. I want to say closer to the east side.

10:25 - About where the pin is [approx. 47.600817, -122.480454]. Northbound.

Tammy Ash

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10:21 - Viewing from 64th Pl on Alki. Saw a couple females, one male. Mid channel, heading northbound off Eagle Harbor fast.

Izzy Edwards

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10:15 - Just north of Blakely Rocks northbound view from Emma Schmitz Park in West Seattle.

09:50 - Fast northbound mid channel approaching south Bainbridge.

09:40 - Three orcas northbound between Blake and Manchester west of mid channel view from Emma Schmitz.

Mary Hartmann

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09:57 - Just passed yellow buoy as viewed from Constellation. I was only seeing one male. 

Steve Rice

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09:11 - Just came up again. They are off the southeast tip of Blake Island.

09:04 - We are on the ferry docked at Southworth and they are off the north tip of Vashon now. Looks like 2 maybe 3.

photo by Leah Jacobsen, March 19, 2023

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08:30 - Per Jen R, orcas were northbound Colvos Passage and at 08:45 were about to pass by Fern Cove, Vashon.  

Marla Smith, Orca Network

Sun, Mar 19 - Puget Sound (T87 & T124A2s)

17:12 - Seeing the southern group from Eglon now.

Jeffrey Stander

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16:38 - Right before they vanished.

16:37 - Another angle as old man T87 Harbeson headed north past Apple Tree Point.

16:30 - The family passing Apple Tree Point cut over within a few hundred yards of shore northbound, then totally disappeared.

16:25 - Some foraging-style directional changes. T87 "Harbeson".

16:20 - Ferry.

photos by Donna Green Van Renselaar, March 19, 2023

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16:30 - 4-5 passing Apple Tree Point Kitsap side of shipping lanes.

16:15 - At the ferry line, steady northbound. Not sure about the ones by Eglon but some still south of Apple Tree Point, Kingston.

Sara Frey

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14:25 - Second group. I see 3. Closely grouped. Kitsap side. Right off of Fay Bainbridge now. Trending north. Brief hunting behavior.

Kimberly Sylvester

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T124A2A Agafia

T124A2A Agafia

T87 Harbeson, T124A2 Elkugu, T124A2B Litton

14:25 - They've moved offshore continuing north.

14:15 - They're doing some incredibly long down times. They just popped up in front of a big white boat that's sitting there with their engine off, as they should. Whales slowly moving north, a bit further off the west side now.

14:05 - Harbeson and it looks like the 124A2s also approaching Fay Bainbridge, fairly close to this side.

photos & IDs by Jim Pasola, March 19, 2023

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14:25 - Four orca passing Fay Bainbridge. Northbound mid channel.

13:53 - Four south of Fay Bainbridge. Northbound. Can see with binos.

Tammy Ash

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13:42 - I have what I think is Harbeson and a few others, just coming into view, I'm up the beach to the south from Faye Bainbridge.

Jim Pasola

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12:20 - Doug B called to report at least two smaller orcas (no males) off Eagle Harbor slowly traveling northbound close to shore, shallow surfaces. Seas smooth, less than foot wave.

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11:06 - One male, three female/juveniles.

10:51 - Seeing four on the south of Blake Island milling about.

Robyn Dally

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10:49 - 2-3 orca just passed Southworth dock heading north.

Denise Brooks

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10:40 - Donna Sanders, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 10:41 to report: 5 Orca NB in EHBR traffic lanes - spotted by SUQUAMISH.

Sat, Mar 18 - South Puget Sound (T46s, T87, T124A2s)

I had a brief pass around 13:40 as they headed northbound past me on Horsehead Bay.

Around 17:08, I spotted four together and one male following behind them, heading towards me coming southbound from Kopachuck, before they disappeared and seemed to head back northbound again. Not sure where they had gone I was about to go back inside when suddenly at around 17:50, one group of approx. 3-4 orcas headed directly towards us along Horsehead Bay heading south; then another group of 4-5 a little behind them, and finally, the large male appeared alone at the back end! With no boats around, water as clear as glass, I can honestly say this truly was a moving, emotional experience, standing with my husband just watching and listening to the powerful sounds as each broke the surface and slowly passed us by barely a few hundred feet away. The photos are a token reminder of their beauty and power but the feelings I got watching them will last forever. So truly blessed to call this place home.

Jennifer Swenson

T87 Harbeson

T46E Thor

T46 Wake

IDs by Rachel Haight, Orca Network

photos by Jennifer Swenson, March 18, 2023

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I just wanted to give a huge shoutout to such an awesome group of people. We cruised around trying to make it to Fox Island in time and ended up down at Kopachuck. Everyone was so friendly! Kind! And helpful! Jason Cook, I believe it was you who was so amazing and informative to us on the beach! Thank you for helping my family and I, giving me the experience of FINALLY being able to see them! Even if it was from far away and through binoculars, I’m still riding on the high of such an incredible experience!

Jen Goodwin

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T124A2 Elkugu & T124A2B Litton

IDs by Rachel Haight, Orca Network

15:00 - Henderson Bay. I see a lot of folks got shots of these beauties.

photos by Randy Witter, March 18, 2023

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From the shore of Kopachuck State Park.

photos by Jason Cook, March 18, 2023

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T46D Strider & T87 Harbeson

T124A2B Litton & T46E Thor

T46E Thor

IDs by Rachel Haight, Orca Network

Great weather for watching orcas in Henderson Bay!

photos by Noelle Morris, March 18, 2023

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videos by Noelle Morris, March 18, 2023

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Here we have T87 Harbeson taking the lead, T46D Strider closely following, and T46E Thor trailing. They’re in order of age. Harbeson is the oldest transient orca born in 1962, Strider born in 2000 and Thor in 2003! Strider and Thor are brothers and are lucky to even be here today! In 1976 their mother, T46 Wake, was captured in Budd Inlet (along with 5 other orcas). Thankfully due to public outcry she was released and has went on to have many children and even great grandchildren!

photo by Amber Stanfill, March 18, 2023

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T46D Strider

T87 Harbeson

IDs by Rachel Haight, Orca Network

13:23 - I was just at Bella Bella Beach on Fox Island when the transients made a very close pass! Got these photos and figured that Orca Network would want to ID them. Quite a surreal moment!

photos by Matthew Pfab, March 18, 2023

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photo by Pauline Proszowski, March 18, 2023

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Went to the Fox Island spit today to relax and let my grand daughter relax in the sand. We got so much more.

video by Mike Bales, March 18, 2023

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We got to see a pod of about 9 orcas out between Gig Harbor and Fox Island this morning. Last they were swimming towards Purdy. Link to FB video.

Mamta Shankar

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Passing Point Defiance.

video by Melissa Bird, March 18, 2023

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19:18 - In front of dock by prison on McNeil. Changing directions. 

19:15 - I am still seeing them, now closer to McNeil. 

18:55 - In front of McNeil but now they appear to be turning towards Steilacoom to the east.

18:50 - Traveling south towards Anderson in front of McNeil.

Lane Sample

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18:45 - Hugging east side of McNeil Island, seeing five still, viewing from Chambers Bay. They’re traveling south still.

18:22 - Trending south toward McNeil, five so far. Viewing from Chambers Bay golf course.

18:19 - Can see at least three mid channel between Fox Island and McNeil heading east.

Cherie StOurs

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18:12 - Looks like they're trending east between McNeil and Fox Island.

18:02 - Got eyes on them. They're heading south. I'm watching from Demolay.

David Bennett

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18:07 - Just saw them pass our spot. East between Fox and McNeil.

Brittany Jurgens

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17:51 - Last place I saw them [approx. 47.292858, -122.698920] at Kopachuck 20-25 minutes ago heading fast into Carr Inlet.

Hope Beam

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17:26 - Started to come towards me at Horsehead Bay then seemed to turn back towards Kopachuck heading northbound again. Last seen approx. 13 minutes ago on Horsehead Bay side of Carr Inlet.

Jennifer Swenson

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17:04 - Changing direction.

16:55 - In view from Kopachuck [approx. 47.323064, -122.680495].

Jason Cook

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16:45 - Starting to head south towards Raft Island. Hugging the east side of Henderson Bay. Kopachuck State Park is the next best place to be from shore.

Randy Witter

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16:37 - Still at least one adult male off Allen Point, milling around. Maybe chasing porpoise, lots of them out here. 

Melissa Bird

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16:15 - Three orcas leaving the Purdy Spit. One very large bull headed towards Raft Island and Dead Man’s.

Mark Stolz

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16:17 - They all look to be milling right off Allen Point [approx. 47.345688, -122.672521].

16:15 - Two adult males right off Allen Point, kind of milling but look to be more southbound.

16:11 - At least four individuals mid channel at Allen Point, look to be heading back out of Henderson.

Melissa Bird

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16:09 - They're trending south back towards Raft & Cutts Island.

David Bennett

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15:50 - Just saw them! Three fins!

Amanda Brenna

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15:49 - Two adult males off Allen Point heading into Henderson/Purdy Bay, & two more individuals mid channel across from the boys [approx. 47.346393, -122.677070].

Melissa Bird

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15:47 - In Purdy. Still 6500' from the launch toward Minter.

Ryan Campbell

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15:44 - Just spotted two big males come around Allen Point.

Dawn Foidel Fischer

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15:40 - I see one now.

Missy Barnett

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15:30 - The last time I saw the pod there were maybe seven, they were just across from Minter toward the east side. That was 25 minutes ago. I am viewing by kayak on the west side across from Raft Island for reference. I've only seen one surface since and it was way up by Minter/Purdy mid-channel.

Delaney Clark

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15:21 - Single male almost to Purdy Bridge.

Cora Reuter Foster

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15:17 - Front of Minter Creek heading towards Purdy Spit.

Randy Witter

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15:05 - From Purdy Spit they look to be near the Minter area, mid channelish but closer to Peninsula side, Northbound towards Purdy.

Melissa Bird

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15:00 - Headed north toward Purdy Bridge, east side.

Delaney Clark

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14:03 - We only see one now, pretty close to Kopachuck on west side. 

14:00 - Into Carr Inlet, heading north not yet at Kopachuck at a medium pace.

Sarah Richey Guenther

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13:47 - From Bella Bella, looks like they have chosen northbound towards Kopachuck, approaching Green Point mid channel.

13:39 - They are still traveling westbound towards the Peninsula shoreline. Haven't made a direction change towards either Kopachuck or Narrows.

Melissa Bird

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13:28 - Passing Fox Island sandspit. Directionally headed towards Horsehead Bay.

Candace Gavin

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13:29 - Just passed Bella Bella Beach, angling towards Kopachuck.

Melissa Bird

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13:22 - Almost to the DeMolay sandspit on Fox Island.

Cora Reuter Foster

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13:17 - Just passed under Fox Island Bridge heading west.

Matt Bingham

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13:15 - Fox Island Bridge.

April Basham

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13:15 - From the Fox Island Bridge.

Candace Gavin

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13:14 - Headed straight toward Fox Island Bridge.

Deanna Sparks Kjorlien

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13:11 - They’re heading west toward the Fox Island Bridge, just went out of sight for us around Ketners Point.

Annie Hilen

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13:06 - Definitely going west towards the Fox Island Bridge. Stayed quite a while at the mouth of Wollochet Bay!

13:02 - Four orcas in Hale Passage heading west!

John Milligiard

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T87 Harbeson

13:04 - They’re mostly heading from Wollochet towards the Fox Island Bridge.

photos by Billy Watson, March 18, 2023

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Mamta Shankar

Date of Sighting: 3/18/2023

Time: 1:00 PM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen: 9

Where seen: Between Gig Harbor and Fox Island

Direction of travel : N

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?:

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12:58 - They keep changing directions just to the west of Cromwell. Viewing from south Fox Island.

12:36 - They’re milling just off Cromwell on the Gig Harbor side.

Annie Hilen

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T124A2 Elkugu & T46E Thor

T46E Thor

IDs by Rachel Haight, Orca Network

12:17 - Group still near Hales Passage closer to Fox Island side trending slightly west. Viewing from Hidden Beach.

photos by Cherie StOurs, March 18, 2023

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12:16 - Single orca mid channel between Fox Island and Day Island headed south.

Debbie Bingham

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12:00 - Approaching Point Fosdick heading south at a fast pace, four at least.

Cherie StOurs

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11:55 - There is one in the middle channel and a few on the Gig Harbor side.

Andrea Reubel Walker

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photo by Kristin Boone, March 18, 2023

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11:55 - Viewing from Hidden Beach one has passed under the Narrows Bridge. Still heading south near Gig Harbor side.

11:45 - Viewing from Hidden Beach heading south still north of Narrows Bridge. At least three.

Cherie StOurs

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11:38 - Approaching Point Evans, some on Gig Harbor side, some mid channel, southbound.

11:27 - Southbound again, mid channel, approaching Salmon Beach.

11:21 - Off Point Defiance [video]. A fun crossing of paths.

11:19 - Milling off Gig Harbor Viewpoint/Point Defiance proper. Lots of direction changes.

11:10 - Have adult male & female milling off Point Defiance Gig Harbor viewpoint.

11:09 - Two adult males trailing lead group, just passing Gig Harbor Viewpoint Point Defiance southbound.

11:03 - Passing Gig Harbor viewpoint in Point Defiance southbound into Narrows, leisurely pace, mid channel. Saw one adult male & 4 others. On a long downtime currently.

Melissa Bird

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11:04 - Maybe hunting and may have merged. Midway between Gig Harbor and Point Defiance heading toward Narrows. Lots of sailboats still and observing.

11:00 - Group of three ahead and two trailing.

10:54 - Moving south in Dalco.

Charlene Engelland

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10:57 - Only saw two [T87 & T46D]. Missed the others. Taken as they were exiting Colvos at 10:45. Southbound.

Ashley S Whitman

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10:50 - They are mid channel between south end of Vashon and Gig Harbor. Seeing them from a very messed up sailing race.

Melissa Malott

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10:50 - Viewing from Dune, passing by Gig Harbor very close to Gig Harbor side, really only viewable through binoculars.

Caro Lew

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Jessie Ryan

Date of Sighting: 3/17/2023

Time: 10:30 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 6

Where seen: Gig Harbor

Direction of travel : South

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

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10:30 - Five Mile Drive Tacoma, Narrows View Point.

photo by Steve Broussard, March 18, 2023

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10:13 - Got to beach too late, but see one male in distance headed southbound nearing area of Camp Sealth mid channel.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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10:04 - Just passed Reddings Beach Road on Vashon. Reported 8 or so headed south.

Amy Carey, Sound Action

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09:44 - Southbound in Colvos Passage.

09:20 - 09:30 - Passing Olalla, southbound! Lots of orcas central and closer to Kitsap side, milling a bit but had trended south.

Amanda Herberger

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08:45 - 09:20 - Whale soup day! Sound Action just received multiple community reports. Whales headed south in Colvos from area near Driftwood Cove on Kitsap side (Fern Cove on Vashon side) around 8:45. Then one of male headed north at Ollala around 09:20. 

Amy Carey, Sound Action

Sat, Mar 18 - SJIs (T100s & T101)

17:00 - Confirmed they are taking San Juan Channel northbound.

15:30 - Report of orcas northbound Goose Island in San Juan Channel.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

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T100C

This is arguably my favorite photo I’ve taken so far of any whale.

photo & ID by Wallace Woods Photography, March 18, 2023

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T100C

I could write a whole short story about the magnificent adventure I had yesterday with my Bigg's Research class. Alas, we think Jpod stayed in overnight, and I should get out and help spot. I'll try to come back and tell the tale a bit later. For now, these are the T100s sans T100E and plus T101. I know this is a lot of pics, but even if you just look at one, go to the end and take a look at T100C. Laurel b. 2002. He is a big boy! I would be remiss if I didn't give a shout out to Ryan, the husband of one of our classmates who was our Des Ex Machina and found whales from shore!

photos by Cindi Crowder Rausch, March 18, 2023

Fri, Mar 17 - Puget Sound (T137s minus T137D)

15:10 - Two orcas appeared, to us, just southeast of our house which is in Suquamish, dead center in Port Madison Bay facing Seattle. The orcas were probably directly east of the Suquamish dock. Orca sightings are rare in our bay. They arrived after a few days of sea lion riots, scores of the barking creatures that were apparently attracted to the bay by a fish run. During those few days prior to the orca arrival, the sea lions fed in swarms with massive numbers of birds diving for scraps. On St. Patrick’s Day, the two orcas appeared and traveled north and then east across the bay, toward Indianola, exiting the bay, probably, at Jefferson Head. They sometimes circled, but mostly traveled. They occasionally dove and stayed down for brief periods. They weren’t in the bay very long, as near as we could tell. The remaining sea lions kept their distance, barking occasionally. 

Eric Nalder

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10:30 - Three orcas between Battle Point and NUWC Keyport.

Tom Parks

Sat, Mar 18 - E Strait Juan de Fuca

16:21 - Humpback whale headed northwest! Seen off of West Beach on Whidbey Island about 2 1/2 miles offshore! Several surfaces, and several deep dives, seems like a juvenile. Seen just now, just went for a deep dive.

Caitlyn Blair [WSSJI]

Mon, Mar 20 - Possession Sound (CRC383, CRC2440, CRC2441)

12:45 - One gray whale, between Hat Island and Tulalip. M.V. Red Head was also in area, left now.

Valerie Rapp

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13:36 - They looked like they had staked out Tulalip as their feeding spot and were waiting on the tide. They hardly moved from that spot while we were that and just circled.

11:55 - MV Swiftsure is with gray whales CRC383 and CRC2441 circling off Tulalip.

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11:21 - MV Swiftsure is with gray whale CRC2440 circling just northwest of Everett.

Justine Buckmaster, Puget Sound Express

Sun, Mar 19 - Port Susan

14:30 - My daughter saw a gray heading north off McKees Beach. It surfaced, then went under. Came up heading south. She said it was too choppy to see well. She sent me cell photos of her camera photos, so not primo quality.

back of camera photo by daughter of Linda Raines Tyner, March 19, 2023

Sun, Mar 19 - Possession Sound

15:30 - 16:10 - Watched a gray at Priest Point. He was still fishing when we took off.

Nicole Damron

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13:00 - San Juan Clipper has a single gray slowly southbound from the southeast side of Hat Island.

Stephanie Raymond, Orca Network

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08:48 - Traveling together pretty steadily northbound up the west side of Hat Island.

08:41 - Seeing three grays off the southeast side of Hat Island, between Hat and the channel marker.

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

Sun, Mar 19 - Saratoga Passage (CRC2259 & others)

15:24 - Gray whale traveling north through Saratoga Passage just passing Cama Beach State Park - blows and dives with flukes, a little closer to Camano side.

Katie Remine

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15:20 - Gray passed north end of Camano Island State Park heading northbound. Guessing it's on approach to Cama by now.

Krista Paulino

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14:30 - Crc2259 is at the edge of Elger Bay. Watching from the Orca Network gray whale trip on the MV Swiftsure [approx. 48.116912, -122.477884].

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

Sat, Mar 18 - Possession Sound (CRC22, CRC53, CRC383, CRC2259)

Gray Whale Sighting:

Sighting Time: Sat Mar 18 10:21:28 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 48.01493,-122.30544

Number Sighted: 2

Submitter Name: Webley

Whale Alert App

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Took the Sea Panda up to Everett today to watch Gray whales! #22 Earhart, #383 and #2259 and #53 off in the distance. Earhart and 383 spent all their time together. Great day on the water! All photos taken with a long telephoto lens and heavily zoomed and cropped to show details.

photos by Janine Harles, March 18, 2023

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15:26 - Leaving 22, 383 and 2259 southeast Hat Island, heading north. There was a fourth one in the distance that I thought I saw a little patch on the side at one point, it had been on the northwest side of Hat most of the time, then made its way over.

Janine Harles

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12:54 - San Juan Clipper is with grays 53 [corrected to 2259], 22 and 383 southeast of Hat Island.

Stephanie Raymond, Orca Network

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11:15 - CRC 2259, 383, and 22 are milling where my map [approx. 47.998475, -122.287634] shows. 22 and 383 are moving northwest and 2259 stayed behind.

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

Wed, Mar 15 - Saratoga Passage

Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Gray Whale Sighting:

Sighting Time: Wed Mar 15 18:27:09 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 48.09954,-122.41902 [N of Mabana]

Number Sighted: 2

Submitter Name: DE

Whale Alert App

Mon, Mar 20 - Admiralty Inlet

07:45 - Northbound 200 yards from Lagoon Point near our boat launch I saw what I think was a fin whale? It breached slowly twice and disappeared. It breached flat to the surface and what showed above water was about 16-20' in length with a small dorsal fin.

Bill Setter

Mon, Mar 20 - Hood Canal

09:30 - I crossed the Hood Canal Bridge and saw a group of four together on the northeast side of the bridge. Their fins were barely out of the water giving the impression they were small.

Teri Rury