November 7, 2024

L88 Wavewalker breaches off Long Point as L Pod makes their way into Penn Cove for the second day in a row.

photo by Sarah Geist, November 4, 2024

SUMMARY

As of November 7, Southern Residents have been in inland Puget Sound for 20 days straight!

Sightings through November 6 include:

Southern Residents - On October 28, J Pod spent the day in Puget Sound.

On October 29, J Pod spent the day in Puget Sound. K Pod & L Pod made their way north in Haro Strait!

On October 30, J Pod spent the day in Puget Sound.

On October 31, J Pod spent the day in Puget Sound.

On November 1, K Pod & L pod joined J Pod in Puget Sound - everyone was present, a true superpod!

On November 2, J Pod & K Pod made their way north in Admiralty Inlet. L Pod went north through Possession Sound & up Saratoga Passage.

On November 3, L Pod entered Penn Cove! They spent the rest of the day in Saratoga Passage.

On November 4, L Pod made their way from Holmes Harbor to deep in Penn Cove where they spent the afternoon.

On November 5, L Pod transited up and down Saratoga Passage. J Pod returned to inland Puget Sound.

On November 6, L Pod was heard on the Port Townsend hydrophone shortly after midnight, marking their exit from inland Puget Sound. J pod spent the day in Puget Sound.

In next report: On November 7, J Pod spent the day in Puget Sound.

Bigg's Killer Whales - On October 28, T99s (minus T99B) were in Penn Cove.

On November 1, T34s & T37s were in the San Juans.

On November 5, T37As were in Guemes Channel.



Humpbacks - Some spending time in Puget Sound.

Gray Whales - Unconfirmed report of one under Deception pass Bridge.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

K26 Lobo & L128 reported missing by the Center for Whale Research

From the Center for Whale Research Encounter #110: "The researchers on Mike 1 were able to locate the whales near the southwestern edge of Middle Bank after a tip about eastbound Southern Residents. All the whales were in a tight travelling formation; the closest whales to Mike 1 included members of the K12s and K13s, while the K14s and K16s were the furthest. After taking proof of presence photos, Mark and Brendon confirmed that all members were present, except for K26, who has been notably absent in the last three K pod encounters. 

Together, they confirmed that all members of L pod were also present except for a subgroup of the L12s—the L77s—along with L25, L87, and the L54s. Noting that L22 and the L94s were accounted for, they speculated that the missing Ls were likely nearby. L90 was also spotted swimming in the center of the group, nearest to L83. Additionally, L82 was seen with a superficial scratch on her dorsal fin. In total, they confirmed the presence of 23 members from L pod, along with 14 whales from K pod. Later on in the day, the research team on KCB III were able to confirm the presence of the missing Ls so by the end of the day, all L pod members, except L128, were accounted for.

Please note: We are saddened to share that K26 is now on our list of missing whales. He has not been seen in the last three encounters despite the presence of the rest of his family. K26, was born in 1993. He is a member of the K14 matriline and has two younger siblings, K36 and K42.

Also missing from this recent encounter is L128, a young calf last observed during Encounter #99. Our field staff noted dramatic signs of emaciation at that time, and we feared it would not survive.

Since the start of our Orca Survey, our policy has been to wait for three consecutive encounters without a whale's sighting alongside its family before we consider it missing or presumed deceased."

Read more here at Center for Whale Research Encounter #110.

Summary of their visit: J, K, & L Pods meet in Puget Sound, a true superpod! L Pod makes historic visit to Penn Cove!

On November 1, reports started coming in of many orcas headed southbound through Puget Sound. It started to sound like more than just J Pod was present, and photos taken by Marla Smith, Orca Network, helped confirm all members of all 3 Pods, J, K, & L pods, were present; a true superpod was in Puget Sound! They made their way south together, stalling off the east side of Vashon Island, just north of Point Robinson where many excited people had gathered in hopes the orcas would pass by. The whales had other plans as they flipped back northbound through Puget Sound, passing Alki Beach as the last light of the day had faded.

Members of J, K, & L Pods in Puget Sound

photo by Jeff Meredith, November 1, 2024

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Members of J, K, & L Pods in Puget Sound

photo by Kelly Dawson, November 1, 2024

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Members of J, K, & L Pods in Puget Sound

photo by Jim Pasola, November 1, 2024

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Members of J, K, & L Pods in Puget Sound

photo by Connor O'Brien, November 1, 2024

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The next morning, on November 2, before dawn, calls were heard on the Sunset Bay hydrophone. A few hours later, orcas were reported northbound in Admiralty Inlet. It turned out that J pod & K Pod were making their way north, exiting inland Puget Sound. Some members passed close by Lagoon Point, Whidbey, to the delight of the people gathered there.

J47 Notch breaches close to shore at Lagoon Point

photo by Cindi Crowder Rausch, November 2, 2024

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K33 Tika passes by close to shore at Lagoon Point

photo & ID by Bonnie Gretz, November 2, 2024

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J Pod & K Pod make their exit out of Admiralty Inlet

photo by Jill Hein, November 2 2024

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Shortly before the report of the SRKWs in Admiralty Inlet, a pod of orcas was seen moving northbound off West Point, Discovery Park. They passed north through the Edmonds/Kingston ferry lanes before turning east and many were treated to a close pass off different ferries; photos taken confirmed L Pod was present!

L90 Ballena passes close to the Edmonds/Kingston ferry

photo by Rachel Haight, November 2, 2024

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L83 Moonlight near the Edmonds/Kingston ferry

photo & ID by Janine Harles, November 2, 2024

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L Pod made their way east and eventually moved north into Possession Sound. They stalled for a while off Camano Head, unable to decide if they wanted to go into Port Susan or head north in Saratoga Passage. They eventually chose Saratoga Passage, passing East Point, Whidbey headed north as darkness fell. 

As L Pod made their way toward Saratoga Passage

photo by Michele Tosh Brodsky, November 2, 2024

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As L Pod made their way toward Saratoga Passage

photo by Donna George, November 2, 2024

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The next morning, November 3, several people searched for L Pod all around Whidbey without any luck. Eventually, a report came in with orcas off Strawberry Point, Whidbey, by Skagit Bay. It was a place we hadn’t expected them to turn up, but there was L Pod! They made their way west past Polnell Point and Crescent Harbor. They were aiming straight for Penn Cove, a place they had not been recorded visiting since the captures of 1970 & 1971 occurred, where many of their family members were taken into captivity while others lost their lives during the capture process. At approximately 11:20, L Pod officially made their entrance into Penn Cove. They made it as far as the Coupeville wharf before turning back east and exiting the cove. Many people were in awe as we all watched the historic moment unfold. There were many breaches and so many spyhops as they went into the cove; one wonders what L Pod was thinking.

As L Pod entered Penn Cove

photo by RJ Snowberger, November 3, 2024

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L Pod in Penn Cove

photo by Kat Martin, November 3, 2024

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L Pod in Penn Cove

photo by Jill Hein, November 3, 2024

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They continued south in Saratoga Passage, appearing as if they’d make their exit from the area. But then, just before sunset, they suddenly flipped back northbound just outside of Langley, apparently not ready to leave just yet.

L Pod headed south after exiting Penn Cove

photo by Megan Stuart Chapin, November 4, 2024

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L Pod makes their way south in Saratoga Passage near Langley

photo by Catherine Alvarado Soto, November 3, 2024

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Breaching off Langley before the end of the day

photo by Steve Smith, November 3, 2024

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The next day, November 4, brought a wind storm to Whidbey Island. The island was subjected to 45 miles per hour sustained winds with gusts over 60 miles per hour. The morning kicked off with L Pod being spotted in Holmes Harbor!

L Pod in Holmes Harbor in the morning

photo by Sandra Pollard, November 4, 2024

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The wind didn’t stop many brave whale watchers from heading out to track L Pod’s travels from the shores of Whidbey. They continued north, and once again, they entered Penn Cove. Those brave enough to stand on the beach were treated to stunning looks as these orcas moved past Long Point, surfacing high in the chop with many breaches as they made their way into the cove. The wind screaming across Penn Cove was brutal. 

L25 Ocean Sun returns to Penn Cove for the second day in a row

photo & ID by Kevin Phillips, November 4, 2024

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L87 Onyx makes his way past Long Point into Penn Cove

photo & ID by Jill Hein, November 4, 2024

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L Pod surfacing high over the waves made for dramatic scenes

photo by Connor O'Brien, November 4, 2024

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L Pod entering Penn Cove

photo by Bonnie Gretz, November 4, 2024

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This time, they went deep into the cove and spent hours hanging out. At one point, they started porpoising along the western shore of the cove, not far from the exact location the captures occurred. Immediately after, most of L Pod grouped up in a resting line, a stunning sight to see so many fins!

L Pod porpoising past the Captain Whidbey Inn

photo by Sarah Geist, November 4, 2024

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L Pod porpoising as viewed from the north shore of Penn Cove

photo by Rachel Haight, November 4, 2024

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At the same time, two orcas were reported to be separate from the pod deep in the cove along the western shore, going back and forth in front of Captain Whidbey Inn. Photos by Sarah Geist confirmed these two orcas were L72 Racer & her adult son L105 Fluke. They spent nearly two hours going back and forth just out from the dock at the inn. Meanwhile, the larger group appeared to “pace” east and west, back and forth, just north of the mussel rafts. Eventually, the rest of the pod drifted closer to the Captain Whidbey Inn; at that point, it appeared that L72 & L105 rejoined the group. As the sun set, L Pod remained deep in Penn Cove, the wind still raging.

L72 Racer spyhops near the Captain Whidbey Inn

photo & ID by Sarah Geist, November 4, 2024

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L105 Fluke & L72 Racer near the Captain Whidbey Inn

photo & IDs by Cindi Crowder Rausch, November 4, 2024

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The next morning, November 5, L Pod was spotted just after dawn making their way south in Possession Sound. Shortly after, they flipped northbound and went back up into Saratoga Passage. They continued north to the area of Harrington Lagoon before flipping back south. They made their way down to the mouth of Holmes Harbor and stalled with some foraging behavior. They again went north up Saratoga Passage. Once they reached the area of Harrington Lagoon again, they decided to flip back south where they disappeared into the night.

A member of L Pod porpoising as seen from Camano Island

photo by Serena Tierra, November 5, 2024

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L Pod headed south in Saratoga Passage

photo by Bonnie Gretz, November 5, 2024

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J Pod was also discovered to have returned to inland Puget Sound on November 5. They spent most of the day circling the Possession triangle, the area between Eglon, Edmonds, & South Whidbey. They did drift north towards Possession Sound at one point, but ultimately returned to the Possession triangle.

On November 6, J Pod was spotted still in Puget Sound. But, it seems L Pod decided their stay in inland Puget Sound had come to an end; thanks to Scott Veirs, Orcasound, for sharing that in the very early morning hours at 01:00, AI detected L Pod calls on the Port Townsend hydrophone, indicating they had made their exit out of Admiralty Inlet. Was their visit to Penn Cove as ceremonious and meaningful for L Pod as it was for us humans? Their visit left us with more questions than answers as so often is the case with these whales. 

Be sure to read through the daily reports below as there are many more beautiful photos & videos to view from this visit with all 3 pods the past week. A special thank you to everyone who participates in this community by sharing real time updates, photos, and videos so that everyone can have a chance to view these amazing beings, whether it be in person or via a screen. Orca Network can only function through a community effort, so none of this is possible without all of you and your contributions. We cannot begin to express how much we appreciate you all, so thank you!

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Wed, Nov 6 - Admiralty Inlet/Strait of Juan de Fuca (L Pod)

Reported westbound off Sooke in the afternoon.

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01:02 - SRKW calls on the Port Townsend hydrophone. Here is the single OrcaHello detection, confirmed to have SRKW calls by David Bain: Link to clip.

Scott Veirs, Orcasound

Wed, Nov 6 - Puget Sound (J Pod)

16:50 - They’re still in the same general area in the triangle. 

16:10 - Still foraging not too far more northwest in Possession triangle from my last post.

15:20 - I see a large group foraging in the exact spot from my map at 10:00 this morning. 

Alice Thuy Talbot

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15:25 - They all seem to be on a big bait ball here-ish [approx. 47.886839, -122.429148].

15:04 - There are two lead groups of 5-ish each that are porpoising fast northbound towards Cultus Bay and then there’s a long, slow trailing group of 10-15 that are casually following in singles.

14:57 - J Pod is surface active, charging northbound towards Scatchet Head [approx. 47.834009, -122.427791].

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

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15:01 - Still spread but seem to be traveling across the channel northeast- some porpoising, traveling!

Stephanie Reiss

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14:51 - Seeing two large fins (male) nearing Point No Point still northbound. More blows to the south, spread. Viewing from Edmonds/Kingston terminal.

Stephanie Reiss

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14:47 - From Eglon line of sight Stamm Overlook. I see a group this side of mid channel. Lots of directional motions but are still trending northbound. Just north of red research boat.

Candace Gavin

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14:22 - Heading north now, slowly, between Edmonds & Kingston on the Kitsap side of midchannel.

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

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13:52 - Seeing them now from the Edmonds-Kingston ferry, just north near the tugboat. At least five individuals, traveling north.

Annika Hipple

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13:51 - Seven heading north in ferry lanes trailed by a research boat.

Rubie H Baker

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13:39 - I can see a few in the ferry lanes to the east of the Edmonds ferry.

13:24 - A couple seem to be trending south west towards President Point. Research boat had to flag down a boat that was heading directly towards them.

Ashley Alecci Goninan

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12:58 - At least three in ferry lanes mid channel heading for Edmonds. They were just in front of tug boat.

Kelli Finnigan McNees

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13:00 - Approaching ferry lanes. Pretty spread out. Still southbound on Kingston side. I think three research boats are near them.

12:54 - They are near large tug boat. The boat seems very close to them. Research boats following southbound.

Danica Bales

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12:41 - From Kingston they are grouped up mid channel steady but leisurely southbound. Approaching ferry lanes.

April Janice Basham

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12:40 - I believe I’m seeing some orcas SB [southbound]in Kingston-Edmonds ferry lanes. Viewing from Apple Tree Point.

Iravasa Athem

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11:57 - Orcas are on Kitsap side, very spread out south towards Edmonds, north to Eglon. Three research boats also spread out as visual markers. Appears overall moment is south trending but far viewing from Stamm Overlook. 

Justin Goslin

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11:52 - More calls on Sunset Bay hydrophone.

T.L. Stokes

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11:52 - Calls are clear on Sunset Bay hydrophone.

Kevin Phillips

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11:28 - Still hearing distant calls on Sunset Bay hydrophone.

Holly Bailey Aprecio

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11:09 - So much surface activity tail slaps, cartwheels, and breaching.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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10:21 - Orcasound listener reports clear calls on the Sunset Bay hydrophone: Link to clip.

Scott Veirs, Orcasound

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11:03 - They must be really spread out because I still see many just north west of my last map.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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10:48 - Viewing from Picnic Point, looks like they're near Point Jefferson? Hard to gauge.

Holly Bailey Aprecio

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10:35 - From the Kingston ferry I've got whales from the north end of Cultus Bay to the green buoy off of Scatchet Head appear to be northbound.

Jim Pasola

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10:29 - Placid, calm viewing conditions from Stamm overlook. Orcas milling about peacefully in areas noted above.

Justin Goslin

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10:00 - Stopped and foraging here [approx. 47.875700, -122.390275].

09:50 - On east side of Possession triangle northbound.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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09:10 - Spread out group on east side, heading northbound, has now passed Sunset Avenue.

Clint Jones

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08:28 - Kingston ferry stopped due to orca pod swimming around near terminal! Northbound.

Jayden Moodie

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08:22 - Single orca northbound in Edmonds, west of shipping lane, off of the marina.

Clint Jones

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08:08 - Laurie Baker, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 08:30 to report: 0808hrs: Vessel [SUQUAMISH] reports via 800MHz they've stopped for six orcas heading northbound, located in the separation zone.

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08:00 - Edmonds Kingston ferry many orcas, heading north. Westbound ferry had to stop and let them pass, mid channel

Anonymous [PSWS]

Tue, Nov 5 - Saratoga Passage (L Pod)

L22 Spirit

Ls spent a wonderful 4 days in Saratoga Passage. On the last day of their visit, they made a beautiful pass by the state parks on Camano, porpoising and tail slapping as they travelled. Here are some pictures from that morning, all taken from shore on Camano Island. Link to more photos.

photo by Serena Tierra, November 5, 2024

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What a contrast to yesterday's crazy wind… absolutely beautiful, flat glass water in Saratoga Passage, as L pod made their way up to just past the north end of Camano Island, then headed south, pretty distant so so beautiful… still pretty surface active… they got as far as the mouth of Holmes Harbor and turned north again. I got some brief looks as they looked like they were headed toward Oak Harbor, but they flipped south again as the sun went down.

photo by Bonnie Gretz, November 5, 2024

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17:01 - L pod flipped again. They are now southbound at Madrona Beach. Mid channel to Camano side. Loosely grouped up.

Candace Gavin

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16:43 - Can see spouts now from Long Point!

Kourtnee Marr Lindgren

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16:42 - Seeing blows from Long Point northbound.

Olivia Carpenter

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16:45 - Looks like they're headed towards Oak Harbor in the sunset so pretty!

16:32 - Passing Jill Hein 's house, south of Long Point mid channel.... getting dark and cold! Spread out.

Bonnie Gretz

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16:25 - Northbound spread out passing near Race Lagoon.

Orca Network

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16:01 - North of Hidden Beach mid to Camano side. Spread out north bound.

Bonnie Gretz

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15:06 - Continuing northbound spread out between the north end of Camano Island State Park and Hidden Beach. 

14:56 - Seem to be committed northbound now, most on Whidbey side with a few trailers midchannel. Hidden Beach and Cama Beach are the next public viewpoints.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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15:03 - The ever elusive L54 Ino as she passed Hidden Beach.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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14:50 - Northbound from the mouth of Holmes Harbor.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute

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14:51 - They're all facing north at the moment.

14:48 - Stopped by the bluff on my way out, very spread out at the mouth of Holmes Harbor [approx. 48.107933, -122.539158]. They're not as far out as I thought when viewing from the boat launch. Stalled with some surface activity, possibly foraging.

14:22 - They're pushing towards Whidbey side, certainly looks like they are heading into Holmes Harbor.

14:20 - Getting more active, seeing some big splashes in line with the north end of Holmes Harbor. Possibly heading into the harbor.

13:58 - Southbound midchannel off the north end of Camano Island State Park. Edit: maybe more Whidbey side of midchannel.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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13:49 - Coming up parallel with Hidden Beach. Southbound mid channel-more Camano side.

Matalie Watson

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13:31 - Approaching Hidden Beach but on Camaro side... approaching Indian Beach.

Bonnie Gretz

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13:29 - There are two trailing the main group, Camano side of midchannel south of Camano Island Inn.

13:16 - Grouping up now, really beautiful. Steady southbound midchannel out from Camano Island Inn.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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13:13 - Just coming into view of binos from Hidden Beach. North of Hidden Beach, heading south.

Matalie Watson

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13:05 - Loosely grouped about midchannel, some surface activity steady southbound, one to two miles south of Race Lagoon.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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13:04 - Seeing some midchannel just south of Onamac Point, southbound.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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13:02 - Now north of Hidden Beach… still more Camano side going south.

12:13 - Now south bound off Camano.

Bonnie Gretz

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12:35 - Just spotted two groups of orcas traveling south from Coupeville, closer to Whidbey.

Michele Ashley Sarver

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12:35 - Feel like they have moved more mid channel as we can see some of them now from those of us at Long Point.

Matalie Watson

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12:31 - Seeing them from yacht club, southbound. Most likely around mid channel but hard to tell from this angle.

Charvet Drucker

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11:57 - Still east of Pheasant Run, south of Rhodena Beach. Couple breaches and tail slaps. Moving slow.

11:47 - Seeing several from Pheasant Run Road, mid-channel northbound.

Bek Hart

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11:45 - Continuing northbound on the Whidbey side. Continued trend towards Penn Cove.

Charvet Drucker

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11:38 - North bound off Madrona on Camaro. Mid channel... surface active, hope they turn into Penn Cove again!

Bonnie Gretz

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11:33 - Northbound south of Camano Island Yacht Club, closer to Whidbey side now.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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11:00 - Appear to be passing Onamac northbound. I've seen about a dozen - quite spread out.

10:50 - I see many breaches and spyhops from spread out whales - northbound mid channel. My line of sight is from Whidbey towards Onamac Point, beautiful conditions.

Jill Hein

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10:37 - South of Madrona on far Whidbey shore, fast northbound towards Penn Cove.

10:39 - Northbound again [approx. 48.181259, -122.570497].

10:38 - Actually they have stalled now. Ton of surface activity.

Thomas McKane

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10:35 - Continuing northbound half a mile south of Onamac Point, Camano side of midchannel.

10:16 - Foraging spread out off the north end of Cama Beach, some close in to Camano. Still trending north with lots of directional changes.

10:01 - Just got to Cama Beach and seeing a few here, Camano side of midchannel.

09:48 - All on Camano side now, trailers are passing the south end of Camano Island State Park, porpoising and tail slapping.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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09:43 - Seeing distant breaches from Hidden Beach! Still northbound.

Lewann Babler

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09:30 - Surface active midchannel south of Camano Island State Park.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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09:25 - They have all passed East Point spread out across channel northbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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09:06 - Viewing from Camano Island State Park - seeing orcas northbound - coming our way - breaching.

Linda Aitkins

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09:00 - I think the trailer had passed mid Bells Beach fast northbound.

photo by Marilyn Armbruster, November 5, 2024

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09:00 - Still visible from the bluff at Mabana, northbound spread out midchannel. Likely leaders passed a few minutes ago, long downtimes.

08:42 - Straight out from Mabana boat launch, Whidbey side of midchannel.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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08:30 - Trailers passing Langley now, leaders passed maybe 10-15 minutes ago? North/northwestbound, Whidbey side spread to midchannel, steady travel.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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08:26 - Pod is super spread at the moment. Some already north of Boy and Dog Park and some straight out from it. All are northbound. All are about midchannel.

Candace Gavin

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Sharon Brocker

Date of Sighting: November 05, 2024

Time: 8:21 AM

Species seen:

Number of animals seen: 7

Where seen: In the Saratoga strait around the Langley Marina

Direction of travel : West, slow, in smaller groups

Behaviors observed: Milling/hunting

If orcas, any males?: Couldn’t tell

Any unusual markings?: Too far away

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: There were three together and then to set of two farther behind.

Photos available?: No

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08:15 - April & Candace called to report now north of Sandy Point northbound.

08:00 - They did go south, between Sandy Point & Brighton. Possibly have flipped north though.

07:30 - April Basham has spotted orcas south of Langley. Direction of travel unconfirmed but possibly southbound. Will update soon with more info.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

Tue, Nov 5 - Puget Sound (J Pod)

16:54 - I see a few facing north east of the shipping lanes in Possession triangle. They’re all kinda foraging off Possession Bank.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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16:05 - I saw one!!!! My first time from beach camp… pure magic. Looks like they are headed west into the islands based on the direction I saw.

15:49 - Hearing more still.

15:45 - Just heard a little one.

Isabelle Ivankovich Busby

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15:42 - Tuned into Sunset Bay hydrophone and heard a nice call.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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15:25 - Pretty close to shore in Mukilteo side. Majority have passed Chennault Beach now heading south. 

15:12 - There’s like five that are foraging right in front of Chennault Beach.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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15:11 - FLIPPED and moving south fast.

15:02 - Watching from Glendale. Jpod is is continuing northbound. Mid to other. They are in no hurry, and SUPER spread.

14:49 - Js at a Glendale. They don’t seem to excited about going north. 

Cindi Crowder Rausch

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14:42 - Several close to Whidbey approaching Glendale. Several others on the Mukilteo side passing the anchored sailboat.

14:38 - Northbound approaching Glendale widely spread across the channel.

Ed Pearson

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14:25 - Orcas moving north of Possession triangle.

Justin Goslin

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14:20 - Seeing blows through binoculars from Glendale, northbound very spread.

Lewann Babler

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14:15 - I saw blows mid channel from the Clinton ferry. 

Cindi Crowder Rausch

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14:15 - I think the rest are continuing north now into Possession. Midchannel.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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13:57 - It looks like some have breached Possession Point, heading northeast towards Glendale, but there are still some south.

13:50 - There isn’t really a hive mind situation happening here. They’re all kind of doing their own thing, generally trending northeast, but a lot of casual direction changes [approx. 47.892386, -122.362407].

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

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13:43 - Leaders are almost to Possession Sound. Just south of Possession Point. Looks like they stopped here. Directional changes. I can see others way out still. 

13:33 - They’re still heading north, slightly east in Possession triangle. Very spread out. 

Alice Thuy Talbot

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13:30 - Lots of water noise but hearing the occasional J call still on Sunset hydro.

Morgan Dale

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13:18 - Calls still audible Sunset Bay hydrophone. Great workout audio.

Beriah SoOrio

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13:12 - Really beautiful conditions. Orcas surging near shore northbound, whitecaps, rainbows and eagles overhead. Stamm overlook.

Justin Goslin

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13:24 - They’re charging fast, but they’re angling towards Possession Point. Not fully committed up towards Mukilteo/Clinton yet.

13:08 - Spread wide, northbound & feeding [approx. 47.874450, -122.380534].

13:03 - Js charging north now, a mile or so off shore from the mainland, passing Stamm.

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

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12:55 - Last I saw them they were close to Possession Point State Park headed north. 

Kim Schouten Paulsen

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12:27 - Stalled out and foraging again.

12:08 - Js wide spread moving north at a good clip (at the moment at least) towards Possession Point/Sound.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute

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12:08 - Still milling north of Edmonds ferry and research boat. 

Joe Dreimiller

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11:00 - Js milling in the triangle, if anything trending southwest.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute

-

10:53 - Spread out, slowly southbound, in the middle of the Triangle [approx. 47.877639, -122.447394].

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

-

10:45 - Hearing distant calls on Sunset.

T.L. Stokes

-

10:44 - Observed from Stamm Overlook, closer to Point No Point. Research boat is with them.

Justin Goslin

-

10:26 - They've all flipped [south].

10:21 - Possible flip south- at least not committed.

10:13 - Js heading northeast towards Possession Sound.

09:50 - Confirmed Js at least.

09:45 - Spread out orcas in the Possession triangle. Looks like Rs but will confirm IDs soon.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute

Mon, Nov 4 - Saratoga Passage/Holmes Harbor/Penn Cove (L Pod)

Lpod on the trek to enter the Penn Cove area. They were so powerful and beautiful.

photo by Kevin Phillips, November 4, 2024

-

L25 Ocean Sun on the right in front of the dock where the captures occurred

Lpod passing Long Point as they headed into Penn Cove, for the second day in a row. It was a blustery day, but that made for amazing photos. Link to FB video. Link to more photos. Link to more photos part two.

photos by Sarah Geist, November 4, 2024

-

Here’s some of the images I took of L Pod on Monday afternoon as they moved north in Saratoga Passage and into Penn Cove. This was the best viewing experience I’ve ever had with the Southern Residents, with countless breaches, tail lobs, and spyhops. These photos were taken from shore during their energetic passes by Hidden Beach and Long Point on Whidbey Island. Hopefully they are finding plenty of fish during their extended stay in Puget Sound! Link to more photos.

photo by Connor O’Brien, November 4, 2024

-

Crazy windy day but L pod came back up Saratoga Passage and zipped into Penn Cove AGAIN! It was so windy it was really hard to hold the camera and stay upright! From Long Point as they made the turn in… watched as they went all the way into the cove instead of turning back half way, but didn't follow them as I was frozen! Beautiful, exciting day! So great to see so many orca friends, as well!  

photo by Bonnie Gretz, November 4, 2024

-

And they came back to Penn Cove, two days in a row now. Here a few photos taken under extremely windy conditions, it was hard to hold the camera steady (almost impossible) and to even stand upright the wind was so strong. Lots of fuzzy photos today from Saratoga Passage and Penn Cove but, again, amazing to see L-pod again!!

photo by Jill Hein, November 4, 2024

-

L Pod in Penn Cove. Link to more photos. Link to FB video.

photo by Rachel Haight, November 4, 2024

-

L72 Racer

L72 & L105 deep in Penn Cove. Link to more photos.

photo by Cindi Crowder Rausch, November 4, 2024

-

A fleeting glimpse of part of L pod heading back north after a brief foray here into Holmes Harbor. Later other members of L pod paid a quick visit before following in their path.

photo by Sandy Pollard, November 4, 2024

-

16:56 - Last update, losing light quickly, they are still around Rachel’s pin, pointed north getting further away from the mussel beds.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

16:48 - Westbound again approx. [48.223358, -122.710629].

16:40 - Separate from the others for about 90 minutes. We believe they rejoined the pod. Group now just southeast of Captain Whidbey.

16:25 - Haven't seen L72 & L105 for the past five to seven minutes, we can see the group of east of us at Captain Whidbey.

16:10 - Others westbound towards out northeast of Captain Whidbey.

16:05 - The pair continue to circle near Captain Whidbey.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:53 - Views from San de Fuca cliffs.

Tabitha B

-

15:42 - Viewing from the Coupeville wharf, it appeared they were heading east and getting closer to the wharf, but now it looks like they’re angling back west.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

15:50 - L72 & L105 (IDs from photos by Sarah Geist) have remained separate near Captain Whidbey for past half hour.

15:03 - Drifted towards north shore in a resting line, grouped, I am speechless. They've moved east, near Rolling Hills dock, stalled, circling.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Stephanie Garlichs

Date of Sighting: November 04, 2024

Time: 3:07 PM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen: 4

Where seen: Penn Cove near San de Fuca moving east

Direction of travel : East

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

-

15:00 - On Madrona Way just before turnoff to 3 Sisters. Such a clear view… seem to be milling about.

Janet Moody

-

14:56 - [video in FB comments]. This was crazy! Deep in Penn Cove.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

1450 - Porpoising along the cove as a group, insaaane.

14:45 - Directional changes deep in the cove. Viewing from near Penn Cove Pottery, they're slightly west of me.

14:25 - Westbound out from mussel rafts. Crazy.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

14:19 - Still west bound in Penn Cove. Best guess here [approx. 48.231842, -122.696948].

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

14:17 - Got them above Penn Cove headed towards mussel flats.

Mel Nasby

-

13:51 - In Penn Cove. Amazing pass at Long Point.

Sarah Geist

-

13:44 - ENTERING PENN COVE GOING WEST!!!! Lots of breaching!

13:27 - Seeing breaches and splashes off Long Point. Close to Whidbey.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

13:37 - Approaching Long Point. Super active.

Sarah Geist

-

12:53 - Northbound just south of Harrington Lagoon (private property) very surface active.

Kevin Phillips

-

12:29 - Northbound Whidbey side, southwest of the tug boat [approx. 48.159304, -122.536784].

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

12:25 - Viewing north of Cama - lots of orca - northbound Whidbey side.

Linda Aitkins

-

12:14 - So cool! They really put on a show as they head north.

Nancy Culp Zaretzke

-

12:08 - Past Hidden Beach. Beautiful pass.

Sarah Geist

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Jackie Bong

Date of Sighting: November 04, 2024

Time: 12:01 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 20

Where seen: Beachcombers (near Greenbank on Whidbey Island), 48.1243 N, 122.5648 W

Direction of travel : N, roughly 5 knots

Behaviors observed: traveling north and breaching a lot. Some possible feeding

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

-

12:00 - Pass at Hidden Beach [video in FB comments].

Bethani White

-

11:59 - Approaching Hidden Beach… northbound.

Janet Moody

-

11:57 - Spotting from Hidden Beach. Still northbound.

Mary Ellen O'Connor

-

11:35 - 12:00 - Appeared to be at least ten orcas west of Baby Island, between Baby Island and Greenbank shoreline. Heading north out of Holmes Harbor towards Saratoga Passage. At times all close together, then spread out a bit, some spy-hopping.

Martha Poppy Sinclair

-

11:45 - Past Wonn Road. Northbound Saratoga.

11:07 - Still northbound so far. Viewing from Wonn Road.

10:55 - North of Honeymoon Bay. Leisurely northbound.

Sarah Geist

-

10.43 - Second neighbor report from deep in Holmes Harbor. More whales (a lot) - saw them as they were leaving. (Sounds like more of L pod northbound).

Sandy Pollard

-

10:28 - Moving quickly north out of Holmes Harbor.

Leslie Schwisow

-

10:26 - Northbound now. Still on west side of harbor.

10:18 - Eyes on them at Freeland Park.

10:10 - South end of Honeymoon Bay. Heading south into Holmes Harbor. West side of the harbor.

Sarah Geist

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Andrea Linton

Date of Sighting: November 04, 2024

Time: 9:19 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 8

Where seen: Holmes Harbor off Dines Point

Direction of travel : S

Behaviors observed: Slowly moving back into H Harbor, hunting?

If orcas, any males?: 2-3

Any unusual markings?: Too far away to tell

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Correction to my earlier report. Two to three males, 3-4 females, a couple

Of youngsters. Hard to identify number as they were in and out of view so quickly.

Photos available?: No

-

09:08 - From WIWS: northbound from Dines Point.

Kevin Phillips

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Andrea Linton

Date of Sighting: November 04, 2024

Time: 9:05 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 6

Where seen: Mouth of Holmes Harbor just off Dines Point

Direction of travel : N

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: 2

Any unusual markings?: Too far away

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

Photos available?: No

-

08:03 - Neighbor alert, at least 10 whales [orcas] passed her house below golf course in Holmes Harbor and turned north. I just caught them, part of Lpod?

Sandy Pollard

Sun, Nov 3 - Saratoga Passage/Penn Cove (L Pod)

What a wonderful surprise… L pod came into Penn Cove! Possibly the first time since the 1970's capture! First ran out to Long Point and saw very distant blows and splashes, then they kept heading west! Thanks to the research boats, we could find them… when they crossed the mouth of Penn Cove, it was absolutely a thrill! They stayed a bit spread out and mid-channel, so pictures aren't super sharp, but they were spy hopping a lot… I'd like to think they were sight-seeing, as none of them except Ocean Sun had (as far as we know) seen this place before! They turned east about by the Coupeville wharf, and headed south down Saratoga. So cool to see so many happy whale friends, and to see L pod so close to home! 

photos by Bonnie Gretz, November 3, 2024

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A noteworthy day as our Southern Resident members of L-pod did a side trip into Penn Cove – first time any of the SR pods (J, K and L) have been recorded returning to the Cove, where in 1970 many of our SR whales lost both lives and their freedom. All 33 members were in the Cove, what a treat for so many whale friends watching them. And for the record, pics are included here of L25 (Ocean Sun), and another favorite, L87 (Onyx). Viewed from Long Point, and Coupeville boat launch area.

photo by Jill Hein, November 3, 2024

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I’m still in awe from L pod’s visit to Penn Cove on Sunday. Here are a few shots I took from Long Point as they began their southward journey after leaving the cove. I have so many more photos to comb through, but these were too beautiful not to share. It was an incredible day, and I cherished sharing it with so many of you who also followed them south on Whidbey. Knowing that there are others who love these magnificent creatures as deeply as I do fills my heart. This group is so much more than just sharing whale sightings; it truly brings us together. Link to more photos. 

photo by Megan Stuart Chapin, November 3, 2024

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L pod, from Langley. Link to more photos.  

photo by Catherine Alvarado Soto, November 3, 2024

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L pod in Penn Cove. The first record of the Southern Residents entering the infamous place that took so many of their members, including Sk'aliCh'elh-tenaut (also known as Lolita/Tokitae), in the 1970 and 1971 captures, before heading back south in Saratoga Passage past Hidden Beach and beyond.

photos by Sandy Pollard, November 3, 2024

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We witnessed history in the making today. For the first time in over 50 years, the southern resident orcas made their way into Penn Cove. L Pod gave us a lovely look as they came in. We were all in complete shock with each minute that passed with them inside the cove. We managed to see them more and more as they went down Saratoga Passage. We will never forget this! Nearly one year ago to the day, I was watching J Pod travel through Quartermaster Harbor on Vashon Island, another place the whales are not known to travel to. How incredible that I got to witness history once again! All photos were taken from shore. Link to more photos. History in the making! Documented for the first time in over 54 years, the Southern Resident killer whales have made a return to Penn Cove. This momentous occasion was marked by L Pod’s unexpected and unprecedented journey into Penn Cove where they traveled westbound until reaching the Coupeville wharf. Spectators of all kinds were taken aback by the sheer rarity and spectacularity of the moment, myself included. Many believed that the Residents would never return to the waters where their family members were so brutally captured for human entertainment. Many believe this return is a good omen, marking the dawn of a new era where orcas and salmon may once again be healthy. All shots taken by me from shore with a telephoto lens. Link to FB video.

photo by Kat Martin, November 3, 2024 

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Some of the L pod picking up the pace this afternoon at Camano Island State Park. Link to more photos. 

photo by Susan John, November 3, 2024

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L Pod continued down past Langley in fading light tonight, the first time I've been fortunate enough to see them here since moving to Langley - what a special memory. The waterfront was absolutely packed with people ooh-ing and ahh-ing, thanks to the Orca Network for creating such an appreciative community of whale advocates! Link to more photos.

photo by Steve Smith, November 3, 2024

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L Pod in Penn Cove. Link to FB reel. 

Domonique Padilla

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Movements like this are what dreams are made of. L Pod returning into Penn Cove for the first time in 54 years. This time last year I started my orca chasing adventures, what a way to celebrate with two spy hops at the end of video. Thank you to all that make it happen with real time sightings and helpful tips. Link to FB video. Link to FB reel.

Mel Nasby 

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[video of L Pod in Penn Cove in FB comments].

Jo Stein 

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After passing Baby Island, there was a period of surge surfing.

back of camera photo by Krista Paulino, November 3, 2024

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17:01 - Continuing northbound in Saratoga, still visible from Langley. One male trailing behind, mid-channel. Still surface active.

Megan Stuart Chapin

-

16:54 - [videos in FB comments].

Thomas McKane

-

16:51 - At Langley seawall hugging Camano.

Victoria Hand

-

16:50 - Lots of milling and logging.

16:48 - Grouped up and now traveling north, mid channel. Viewing them north of Langley.

Olivia Carpenter

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Leah McMullen

Date of Sighting: November 03, 2024

Time: 4:26 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 8

Where seen: Saratoga Passage

Direction of travel : East

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: Yes

Any unusual markings?: Spot on dorsal

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

Photos available?: No

-

16:25 - Passing Langley now on Camano side.

Maureen Alley

-

16:22 - Just passing Whale Bell Park in Langley.

Lisa Dilwicius

-

16:20 - Moving fast Whidbey side can see from Sandy Point, still between us & Langley.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

16:14 - Should be visible from Langley [approx. 48.053822, -122.416364]. 

Andrew Wright

-

16:10 - From Saratoga [video in FB comments].

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

16:08 - They are a mile north of Langley. Midchannel. Playing - tail slaps and spy hops!

Stacy Estlick Wright

-

16:00 - Out of my view now at Mabana, continuing southbound.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

15:52 - Southbound approximately here [48.066264, .122.447478].

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:48 - So beautiful southbound south Bells Beach.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

15:47 - Southbound between Mabana and Bells Beach, closer to Whidbey side.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

15:43 - WOW! I was there at Camano Island State Park on the bluff! It was incredible to see them again.

Kristina Trowbridge

-

15:39 - Visible from Langley to the north, just west of mid channel.

Olivia Carpenter

-

15:34 - South of East Point.

Jeff Meredith

-

15:30 - All now south of East Point continuing southbound along Whidbey shore.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:24 - Spread out Whidbey side of midchannel off East Point.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

15:25 - Looked to be a super beautiful pass of L pod members as they moved passed East Point, Whidbey. Many inverted whales, pec slaps, lunging, could hear the percussives over here on Camano. From Camano Island State Park high bluff.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

15:19 - Slowing down now, nearing Elger Bay.

Thomas McKane

-

15:13 - Hidden Beach.

Nicole Perkins

-

15:12 - Southbound midchannel between Camano Island State Park and Baby Island, grouping up a bit.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

15:07 - Leaders steady southbound mid channel transect from north end Camano Island State Park & Baby Island Heights. others trailing some in larger groups. Some porpoising and surface activity going on. So beautiful with sunbeam across the passage. Seem to be drifting slightly more Whidbey side now.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

15:03 - From Hidden Beach as they went south. Midchannel picking up speed all have passed Hidden Beach with a huge spread.

Jami Cantrell

-

15:00 - Southbound. Active and breaching see map [approx. 48.130297, -122.525263]. 

Marilyn Armbruster

-

14:55 - From Hidden Beach [video In FB comments].

Juan Esteban Haeckermann-Godoy

-

14:37 - Many are drifting toward Camano side, larger group mid channel keeping line southbound. Still lots of foraging and surface activity.

14:30 - From Camano been watching L pod for the past 30 minutes make their way south in Saratoga Passage from Race Lagoon to just now leaders north of Hidden Beach. Lead group of ~10-12 Whidbey side mid channel, with others spread in singles and small groups behind and mid channel and small group including mom/calf Camano side mid channel. A lot of foraging, directional changes, mostly by middle group. Mom and youngster split off from that group and little one has zoomies and is quite active and super adorable. 

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

14:36 - Southbound off the north end of Cama Beach. Still on Whidbey side but maybe trending offshore. Some surface activity.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

14:36 - Nearing Cama Beach [approx. 48.155635, -122.559462].

Thomas McKane

-

14:19 - Visible from Cama Beach, still north of here. The ones I'm seeing look close to Whidbey.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

14:17 - At Hidden Beach. Can just start to see them!

Domonique Padilla

-

14:16 - Moving very fast southbound.

14:04 - Lots of breaches [approx. 48.186512, -122.572554].

Thomas McKane

-

14:05 - Coming into view at Hidden Beach.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

14:00 - Seeing a few whales - very spread out - southbound in Saratoga just now - passing Onamac (on Camano) and further south. Research boat still with them. Mid-channel.

Jill Hein

-

13:45 - They must be opposite Rockaway now heading south, seeing fins way in the distance from Snatelum Point.

Jeff Meredith

-

13:40 - Whales are traveling southbound, approaching Race Lagoon area. Whidbey side, spread into a few groups north/south and surface active, but traveling with a purpose.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

13:25 - They got super surface active. Slow southbound, spread, now south of green buoy east from Long Point.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

12:58 - They are still visible off Long Point. Not going anywhere in a hurry. They definitely look to be pushing out more east. Unsure if committed to southbound yet.

Kat Martin

-

12:52 - Eastbound [approx. 48.256135, -122.616713].

Marilyn Armbruster

-

12:30 - Eastbound passing Long Point.

12:15 - Passing Coupeville boat launch eastbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

12:15 - This was absolutely INSANE to witness from the Coupeville wharf about 20 minutes ago.

Kat Martin

-

12:14 - Casually heading east.

Anya Sika

-

12:13 - Several orcas in Penn Cove right now, headed east.

Jennifer Lisa

-

12:08 - They may have flipped. Eastbound now.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

12:05 - Seeing two just east of Coupeville.

Matt Bechle

-

12:02 - Most still westbound.

12:00 - Maybe directional changes?

11:58 - They may have flipped east.

11:50 - Just wow, westbound past Monroe Landing.

11:35 - Drifted more to mid as they push west.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

11:42 - Just east of the Coupeville boat launch.

Kevin Phillips

-

A spy hop as they enter Penn Cove!

photo by Kate MC, November 3, 2024

-

11:25 - In Penn Cove! Unbelievable!

Bonnie Gretz

-

11:23 - LPod has entered Penn Cove.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

11:24 - Spyhop after spyhop. I hope someone is taking pictures! 

11:15 - Still aiming towards Penn Cove.

Anya Sika

-

11:00 - Viewing from Penn Cove Park, east of me, still westbound, seem closer to north shore.

10:50 - Viewing from hill above Walmart in Oak Harbor, steady westbound crossing in front of entrance to Oak Harbor. Aiming straight for Penn Cove...

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

10:53 - Getting closer to Long Point westbound closer with a research boat.

Bonnie Gretz

-

10:40 - Viewing from Long Point. Whales still westbound.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

10:25 - Steady westbound approx. pin [48.267214, -122.583212].

10:15 - Watched trailers pass Polnell Point steady westbound spread out.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

10:06 - Viewing from Camano Island Yacht Club, they are still westbound west of Polnell Point.

09:45 - Westbound between Maple Grove and Polnell Point.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

09:39 - They have flipped since that report. They are now westbound east of Polnell Point. Big males, lots of dorsals, some surface activity, nice big breach.

Kevin Phillips

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Dave Nelson

Date of Sighting: November 03, 2024

Time: 9:34 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 6

Where seen: Skagit Bay 48.2792727, -122.517144

Direction of travel : SW

Behaviors observed: traveling

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

-

09:08 - Orcas past Strawberry Point heading northeast close to Whidbey.

Pat Sebelsky [CWW]

-

07:57 - Viewing from a rental near Penn Cove Road and Blattman, looking southeast between Coupeville and Long Point [video in FB comments].

Matt Bechle

Sat, Nov 2 - Admiralty Inlet (J Pod & K Pod)

Sped down to Lagoon Point after reports of Residents northbound at Bush Point. Got there in time to see the three trailers speed by… saw a breach from J47 Notch, and the big guy is K33 Tika! Then to Fort Casey to catch mid-channel/distant looks at a few as they headed north west. Lovely to see! 

photos by Bonnie Gretz, November 2, 2024

-

K33 Tika

J & K Pod from Lagoon Point, all pictures taken from land. Link to more photos.

photo by Cindi Crowder Rausch, November 2, 2024

-

J47 Notch

A full day of whales - after many days spent in Puget Sound, J pod exited Admiralty Inlet in the morning with some brushing the shoreline of Lagoon Point. A close encounter of the most magnificent kind... Later in the day members of L pod spent time foraging off Camano Head before heading north in Saratoga Passage as darkness fell.

photos by Sandy Pollard, November 2, 2024

-

K33 Tika

J47 Notch

Today was a day that makes up for all the times 'you just miss them!" J & K pods were exiting Admiralty and we were admiring them from a distance when all of a sudden... bam! ...There were some were right off the beach at Lagoon Point! Absolutely epic! And then later in the day, L Pod made its way up Possession and we had distant but gorgeous views of them all lined up. Love these whales so much. Hope they've been feasting well during their stay here! And so good to see friends on the whale trail!

photos by Donna George, November 2, 2024

-

Some members of J-pod leaving Admiralty Inlet this morning. Pretty sure the male is J26 - probably about ten whales viewable, spread out, as they headed north. Photos taken from Fort Casey with Bonnie Gretz - always good to see these guys. 

photo by Jill Hein, November 2, 2024

-

As they passed Fort Casey. Most of them were closer to the Port Townsend side traveling as three groups headed north.

photo by Andrew Roundy, November 2, 2024

-

21:50 - [J Pod] Calls on San Juan Channel hydrophone!

Cindy Hansen, Orca Network [WSSJI]

-

18:43 - [Possible K Pod] hearing blows north of Eagle Point. Heading up island.

Jenny Stands Wilson [WSSJI]

-

18:22 - [Possible K Pod] They just passed South Beach heading north but pretty far out and with the darkness, it's really tough to see them anymore.

Elizabeth Brooke-Willbanks [WSSJI]

-

17:50 - 18:10 - [J Pod] a mixed group just traveled north from Cattle Point up San Juan Channel past Cape San Juan… probably at least seven including one small one.

Jeanne Sept [WSSJI]

-

Possibly split at Cattle Point - a group appear to go north through the San Juans while the other group went up the west side of SJI

-

17:35 - [J & K Pod] Several orca just off the Cattle Point lighthouse.

Julie Gralow [WSSJI]

-

13:01 - Northwest of Libbey Beach… very far out. At least eight fairly close together now.

Amy Leigh Chappelle

-

11:36 - At least eight orca spread out in three groups heading northwest in front of Ebey’s Preserve.

Cyrilla Cook

-

11:26 - Got them just passed Fort Casey mid channel northbound towards Ebey's Landing.

 Mel Nasby

-

11:20 - Passing Fort Casey… close to Fort Casey still heading north. Spyhop!

Janet Moody

-

11:23 - Still hearing calls on Port Townsend hydrophone.

11:12 - Calls on Port Townsend hydrophone.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

11:16 - KENNEWICK just confirmed they are at a standstill currently [due to orcas].

-

11:15 - Spread out. Passing Fort Casey.

Bonnie Gretz

-

11:26 - Just passed us now, moving north fast! Heading northwest.

11:02 - Watching two groups from Fort Casey right now! At least ten orcas.

Kate MC

-

10:59 - Seeing a few blows on the other side of the Coupeville ferry area… traveling north. Fort Casey may be a good spotting place looking towards Port Townsend.

Janet Moody

-

10:33 - Absolutely incredible pass at Lagoon Point. Some only 30 feet off shore! We are gobsmacked. 

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

10:26 - A group of at least three possibly more are north of Bush Point, closer to the Coupeville ferry crossing. Can see blows from Bush Point with binoculars. Seem to be milling as originally they were going west to east.

Ethan Abeles

-

10:10 - Hearing Jpod on Bush Point.

Christine Swedell

-

10:06 - Still hearing some calls on Bush Point.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

10:06 - Lots of calls on Bush Point hydrophone... with echolocation clicks.

Kevin Phillips

-

10:05 - Still loud J pod calls on Bush Point. S1 type.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

09:58 - Was with them at Bush Point. Moving north. Already at Lagoon Point. They have moved out some.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

09:52 - Several orcas passing Bush Point. Spread out across Whidbey side of channel heading north.

Dave Blue

-

09:51 - Several orcas passing Bush Point right now. Heading north, closer in Whidbey side.

Dawn Ritter

-

09:53 - Possibly Ks too?

09:50 - J pod calls on Bush Point.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

09:40 - Friend relaying report of 10+ orcas near Bush Point surface active.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

.

09:40 - Vocals on Bush Point hydrophone.

Donna Green Van Renselaar

-

09:38 - I think I heard calls on Bush Point hydrophone.

Joe Dreimiller

-

09:20 - A friend reported a pod of orcas swimming north past Mutiny Bay close to the Whidbey shore. Photo from Robinson Beach this morning.

Jacqueline Anne

-

06:37 - Still hearing faint calls.

Orca Network

-

06:30 - Hearing calls now.

Janine Harles

-

06:29 - Heard [calls].

Kimberly Fritz

-

06:27 - Calls on Sunset Bay hydrophone [link in comments]. This means they are in the area between Eglon, Edmonds, and South Whidbey.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

06:20 - SRKW calls in Sunset Bay hydrophone. At least Js and sounds like some Ks too.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

06:20 - Calls On Sunset.

Jim Pasola

-

06:18 - Faint calls.

Jaymi Davison Garvett

-

06:14 - There were a couple more calls.

Taylor Parsons

-

04:18 - Still audible. Why am I awake?

Beriah SoOrio

Sat, Nov 2 - Puget Sound (L Pod)

L54 Ino

L pod from the Edmonds to Kingston ferry. Link to more photos.

photo by Rachel Haight, November 2, 2024

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Later in the day members of L pod spent time foraging off Camano Head before heading north in Saratoga Passage as darkness fell. 

Sandy Pollard

photos by Richard Snowberger, November 2, 2024

-

From the Edmonds ferry this morning as L pod passed by. Link to more photos.

photo by Janine Harles, November 2, 2024

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16:30 - 16:45 - Taken towards Camano Head and south of Pebble Beach/Camano Island. As of 18:00, they were still heading north in Saratoga Passage, I think they were or had passed Mabana Shores. Link to more photos.

photos by Marilyn Armbruster, November 2, 2024

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Had a whale of a day. Started with viewing the ten or so headed north at Fort Casey then headed to Seattle and caught up with the orcas by the Clinton ferry. What a day.

photo by Mel Nasby, November 2, 2024

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L pod evening swim up Saratoga Passage. Link to FB video.

Susan John

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L pod passing Mabana earlier this evening as they made their way north in Saratoga Passage. Link to FB video.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

18:40 - They've passed Fox Spit/East Point northbound spread across channel. Some came REALLY close to Whidbey & we could see in the dark.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

18:12 - Northbound north of Mabana, pushing over to Whidbey side. Some breaching and spy hopping.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

17:59 - Visible from Mabana midchannel but light is fading fast.

Jeff Meredith

-

17:56 - Moved a bit more mid channel.

17:55 - Closer to Camano. About a mile north of Langley. Some long down times, moving slowly northwards.

photo by Stacy Estlick Wright, November 2, 2024

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17:44 - Finally got them, northbound just south of Mabana around midchannel.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Sarah Schmaltz

Date of Sighting: November 02, 2024

Time: 5:40 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 6

Where seen: 48.07961° N, 122.40102° W

Direction of travel : NW

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

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17:35 - Nearing Mabana pushing off Camano northbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

17:21 - Close to Camaro, heading north [approx. 48.082944, -122.409636].

Andrew Wright

-

17:07 - LPod is Camano side, all grouped up moving northbound in Saratoga.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

17:05 - They're moving north quick not far off Camano past Summerland.

16:50 - Continuing north nearing Pebble Beach.

16:43 - Northbound off Camano Head in Saratoga - will they commit? Who knows!

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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16:49 - Correction… looks like they are angling into Saratoga.

16:38 - Flipped back north aiming for Port Susan again.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

16:48 - Heading into Saratoga Passage south of Pebble Beach about halfway from Camano Head to Pebble Beach northbound.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

16:30 - I was viewing off of the Camano Island Head, a little bit north into Port Susan.

photo by Pam Sandblom-Shifflette, November 2, 2024

-

16:25 - Looks like they’re staying close to shore and rounding Camano Head possibly heading into Saratoga Passage. Small speed boat trailing. Lots of surface activity.

Lori Christopher

-

16:24 - Aaaaand now they're facing south again.

16:20 - They are now north again, but maybe up Saratoga now.

16:05 - They've made progress south, now south of Camano Head channel marker.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

16:15 - South of Camano Head milling directional changes! Northbound/southbound/northbound [approx. 48.047206, -122.356953].

Marilyn Armbruster

-

16:00 - L pod off of Sandy Point. They went back and forth into the mouth of Port Susan several times and finally turned up Saratoga passage. We saw lots of spy hops and a couple of breaches. Due to the distance and light, I mostly just enjoyed watching them with binoculars. It’s always a treat to see the L pod. All of those black triangles so close together is really special. Hoping they had a feast out there.

Michele Tosh Brodsky

-

15:40 - Viewing from Hat Island, still northbound into Port Susan, mid channel. Research boat was with them now it’s closer to Camano Head shoreline. Say a few nice breaches! 

15:40 - Approx position, closely grouped. Northbound [approx. 48.066493, -122.347422].

Lori Christopher

-

15:38 - They are back in view off Camano Head. So maybe foraging? Some breaches.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:32 - Does finally look like they’re committing to Port Susan, they’re no longer visible to us at Sandy Point on Whidbey side as they flipped around the corner.

Jeff Meredith

-

15:26 - Directionally changes again. Possibly milling/foraging at or near Camano Head.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

15:25 - Flip back north into Port Susan looks like...

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:11 - I see them milling here’ish [approx. 48.043489, -122.353247].

Alice Thuy Talbot

-

15:09 - Appears to have changed directions southound at Camano Head.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

15;10 - Possible flip south…

15:02 - Northbound off Camano Head, into Port Susan.

14:58 - If they continue northbound, they'll head into Port Susan.

14:50 - Northbound approx. [48.042474, -122.359402].

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:00 - Approaching Camaro Head east side of buoy appearing to be heading Port Susan.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

14:56 - Black Fins (5+) off tip of Camano. We are viewing from Cascade Blvd in Langley! Beautiful!! Looks like baby too!

Michele Jamison

-

14:40 - Fin spotted off Sandy Point.

Jeff Meredith

14:37 - Visible from Langley, right off Sandy Point northbound.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

14:35 - Now aiming more due north. Split in two groups.

14:30 - They’re nearing Sandy Point, northbound, looks like they're going to aim Saratoga.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

14:16 - Viewing from the Mukilteo - Clinton ferry, continuing north bound. Line of sight Camano in the background.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

13:47 - [approx. 47.989832, -122.337892] Decided to stop in Clinton for one more look. Research boat is following a group of 8-10. Northbound not too far from Whidbey.

Ethan Abeles

-

13:46 - Approaching south end of Hat and heading north, west side of Hat mid channel.

Dori Johnson

-

13:38 - Still south of Hat Island, just north of ferry lane.

Jeff Meredith

-

13:29 - Some heading east, some looked to be turning south but then flipped again - could be heading up towards Camano but unsure.

13:28 - Lots of us viewing from Mukilteo lighthouse - group of at least six to seven that are milling and changing directions, we can see them between Clinton and Hat Island.

 Mac McGrath

-

13:25 - Should be able to find the full group here [approx. 47.990659, -122.319581].

13:20 - Now it looks like the lead as gone east to go around that side of Hat Island. There’s a larger group following with a small boat following them.

13:13 - Northern most are passing Clinton and the southernmost that I can see are mid ferry lanes. All northbound.

Ethan Abeles

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13:13 - Looks like they’re almost to the ferry lanes maybe heading northeast’ish?

Alice Thuy Talbot

-

13:10 - Passing through Mukilteo lanes.

13:00 - Fins approaching ferry lanes.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

13:00 - Best day with my friend Katie Schuster seeing orcas for the first time not on a whale watching charter! Huge thank you to everyone for posting reports, we caught a ferry from Mukilteo to Clinton and saw the L pod.

Isabelle Ivankovich Busby

-

12:57 - Seeing Ls in this area moving steady northbound spread out in relativity calm seas. So pretty [approx. 47.939666, -122.341863].

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

12:56 - Several have passed Glendale. Appear to be drifting northwest, but some directional changes.

Dori Johnson

-

12:52 - So many coming into Mukilteo Whidbey side heading north.

Julie Davis

-

12:50 - Following a bunch of them from the Whidbey side at the land trust park. They’re spread out north to south, mostly mid channel closer to the mainland side. All still heading northwards.

Ethan Abeles

-

12:41 - Leaders in line with Glendale, still northbound.

Katie Davis Watkins

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12:35 - From ferry I'm looking due south, they’re definitely mid to just slight Whidbey. Research boat about mid, some near boat, others in a nice group just west. Pretty line of blows, they are still pretty far south of lanes, need binos see..

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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12:35 - Still very spread, mid to other, one large male just passing Possession Point waterfront closer to Whidbey but still mid channel.

Lewann Babler

-

12:29 - Viewing from Glendale, leaders are approaching, mid to other still northbound.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

12:25 - Viewing from Possession Point, looking east! Traveling north slowly.

Mia Kathleen

-

12:15 - They are in Possession Sound heading towards Glendale west of midchannel. 

Alice Thuy Talbot

-

12:08 - Large number still. Just south of Possession Point mid channel moving steady north. Others spread.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

12 04 - Viewing from Picnic Point, they are every where, heading towards Mukilteo, it's beautiful.

Julie Davis

-

12:03 - They’re nearing Possession Sound.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Carol Eland

Date of Sighting: November 02, 2024

Time: 12:00 PM

Species seen: L Pod

Number of animals seen: 40

Where seen: between Sandy Point and Hat Island. N, Puget Sound

Direction of travel : into Port Susan headed north

Behaviors observed: traveling and hunting

If orcas, any males?: multiple

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: they surrounded a gill netter that was fishing. looked like blackberry picking ! other than that no boats following them.

Photos available?: No

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11:56 - Louder calls on Sunset Bay now.

Orca Network

-

11:55 - Was viewing around 10 orcas from Haines wharf, milling around.

Corah Whipple

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11:54 - Look to be nearing Possession Point northbound, view from Stamm, distant.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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11:53 - Still hearing some calls and echolocation clicks on Sunset Bay.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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11:44 - Coming into view from Possession Point waterfront, research boat with them.

Lewann Babler

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11:40 - 11:43 - Super wonderful L pod calls last few minutes in Sunset Bay.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

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11:32 - Hearing calls on Sunset Bay hydrophone. We also saw some breaching at 11:15 heading up towards east side of Whidbey. They're all spread out everywhere, such a cool morning!

Rubie H Baker

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11:17 - Hearing orca calls on Sunset Bay hydrophone.

T.L. Stokes

-

11:05 - Incredible Kingston-Edmonds ferry crossing with ferry stopped and orcas all around the boat!

Sue Surowiec Larkin

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11:04 - The faintest whistles and echo on Sunset Bay hydro and blows south of Haines wharf, east/mid.

Donna Green Van Renselaar

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11:24 - So many whales around 11:00 on the ferry, our captain was awesome!

Janine Harles

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11:01 - Thank you all, I've been watching at Sunset for an hour, they are everywhere.

Julie Davis

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11:00 - This large group is keeping to this side (Edmonds). Lazily northbound with a lot of inverted backwards swimming, rolls, some breaches about 3/4-mile offshore (those closest), others just outside of them, in groups, pairs, single. Male trailing off terminal close in.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

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10:59 - Really great close in milling, pec fin waving, spy hops off sunset. Postcards everywhere.

Justin Goslin

-

10:50 - At least couple dozen have moved well to east side and are off Edmonds terminal and either side of… and off dive park. Visible easily with naked eye. Slow northbound with foraging. Ferry slowly drifting into port.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

10:48 - Faint calls on Sunset Bay.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

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10:44 - Ferry is stalled with some foraging just outside the Edmonds terminal [approx. 47.811715, -122.411096].

10:40 - Nice group on the east side off Edmonds, sightline Sunset Ave/north side Apple Tree Point. Loosely spread. Slow steady northbound.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

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10:38 - Ten to fifteen whales heading east south of the Edmonds ferry. Photo credit to Linda Buck Assael.

photo courtesy of Kate Stovel, November 2, 2024

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10:36 - On the ferry from Edmonds to Kingston, passed right by the boat!

Emma Pedraza

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10:35 - Ferry stopped, the whales came right up to ferry, it was amazing! Looks like Ls in my photos. One successfully caught & ate a fish!

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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10:30 - From Kayu seeing spread out heading north approaching Edmonds.

Beriah SoOrio

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Scott Frank

Date of Sighting: November 02, 2024

Time: 10:30 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 6

Where seen: Edmonds/Kingston ferry, approx 10 minutes from Edmonds

Direction of travel : E

Behaviors observed: Travelling

If orcas, any males?: 1 or 2 males

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: I could identify L54 and L90, and a male I couldn't match

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

L90 Ballena

L110 Midnight

photos by Scott Frank, November 2, 2024

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photo by Ernie Yip, November 2, 2024

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10:29 - Several fins barely visible with binocs Apple Tree Point to Point Wells midchannel, research boat south of them at least one male.

Donna Green Van Renselaar

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10:20 - Seeing them from the pier!

Lauren 'Lo Blakeley

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10:15 - All the whales that I can see have moved east of mid-channel leaders are passing the tank farm line of sight from Kingston.

Jim Pasola

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10:14 - Viewing from Edmonds Marina Park. Seeing blows across the channel, just south of Kingston. Look to be north.

Olivia Carpenter

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Thanks [Olivia] for helping me spot them!

Ernie Yip

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10:10 - Sightline from Apple Tree Point, just saw first blow south of tank farm midchannel.

Donna Green Van Renselaar

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10:15 - Trailers are coming up on Point Wells tank farm.

10:04 - [approx. 47.759437, -122.444304].

09:59 - Still super spread out. Some more north are hunting and playing around and others are further south. All visible from President Point all across the channel. Very active this morning!

Ashley Alecci Goninan

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09:55 - Leaders west side of channel north of President Point with others trailing back to at least yellow mid channel buoy. Several turned back to forage for at least 5 minutes just after my 09:40 post. All northbound again towards Kingston terminal.

Alisa Lemire Brooks

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09:50 - From the Kingston side the leaders are just inside the yellow buoy at mid-channel. There are some others a little farther west a little farther behind. And more well behind them appear to be about mid-channel.

Jim Pasola

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09:44 - Parallel with Carkeek far off on west side right now.

Amy McDavid

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09:46 - Must be foraging/hunting!!

09:45 - Some directional changes. 

09:41 - Viewing from President Point west side of channel. Glassy water is beautiful!

Ashley Alecci Goninan

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09:40 - Leaders on west side approaching yellow mid channel buoy President Point, Kingston. Squeee!

09:30 - Of those we are seeing from Richmond Beach, leaders just approaching transect Richmond Beach and Jefferson Head.

09:25 - Several dozen at least spread generally mid channel and earth we side of in singles to groups of three to four. Steady northbound travels continue in super smooth seas. With dozen milling harbor porpoise (some calfs) just off Richmond Beach. FYI: several fishing boats were already stalled in place well before the orcas approached. One research vessel (looks to be).

09:15 - A whole lot of spread out northbound Southern Resident orcas… transect Richmond Beach Saltwater Park and Fay Bainbridge park. Some surface activity and brief directional changes [approx. 47.712457, -122.461867].

Alisa Lemire Brooks

-

09:30 - Seeing blows between Fay Bainbridge and north of tank farm… midchannel perhaps leaders northbound.

Sue Surowiec Larkin

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09:33 - Just north of Golden Gardens before Carkeek. They are north of me now on the west side of the sound right now.

09:21 - So much surface activity and looks to be babies doing adorable back flops. They are so playful on their way north today.

Fi NiMhuirgheasa

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09:01 - Sue called to report dozens of blows south of Fay Bainbridge. Theres groups, more than ones and twos. Moving steady north, seem to have picked up the pace.

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08:45 - Orcas spread north to south between Golden Gardens and south Shilshoe in groups of ones and twos northbound, midchannel.

Sue Surowiec Larkin

-

08:36 - SRKWs spread from West Point to Bainbridge, northbound.

Christopher Johnson

-

08:30 - Just saw at least five orcas from the Victoria Clipper, heading northbound just off Discovery Park!

Flo Hardy

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08:15 - Off the Victoria Clipper leaving from Seattle. They were all over - likely visible from both Discovery Park and Alki! Link to FB video.

Macy Madsen

Fri, Nov 1 - Puget Sound (J Pod, K Pod, L Pod)

Seen from Charles Richey viewpoint, just at sunset.

photos by Audrey Gardner, November 1, 2024

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SRKW from the north point Vashon ferry dock. Too far for me to get good photos, but so cool nonetheless. Link to more photos. 

photo by Kelly Dawson, November 1, 2024

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Great grandma L25 on the right.

photo & ID by Jim Pasola, November 1, 2024

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Group of orcas spotted off the Fauntleroy ferry terminal!

photo by Megan McLynne, November 1, 2024

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Pleasure meeting members of the group on Vashon. Caught some spyhops and breaches from the ferry terminal (looking out just south of Fauntleroy). Link to more photos.

photo by Jeff Meredith, November 1, 2024

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Just north of Point Robinson.

photo by AirWaterLand Photography, November 1, 2024

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A visit with J, K, & L Pods. Link to FB reel.

Fusa Nz

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Superpod from north end Vashon Island. Link to FB video .

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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From Southworth ferry terminal watching the SRKWs head north. Link to FB reel.

Kristen Waite-George

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22:20 - Orcasound listener reported SRKW calls. Confirming that I hear faint SRKW calls, possibly S16s. You can replay here: Link to clip.

Scott Veirs, Orcasound

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21:40 - Get on the Sunset Bay hydrophone now! 

Jim Pasola

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A bit far away but includes some breaches as seen from Beach Drive just south of Constellation Park [video in FB comments].

Katie Pacilio

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Nichole Neal

Date of Sighting: November 01, 2024

Time: 6:00 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 7

Where seen: Puget Sound / across from Alki Beach

Direction of travel : North / across ferry channels

Behaviors observed: traveling, splashing

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

-

17:58 - From Alki.

photo by Connor O'Brien, November 1, 2024

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17:52 - From Constellation Park. Trailing superpod group.

photo by Robin Sinner, November 1, 2024

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17:50 - (Just as I was about to leave 64th & Alki) the third group came around the point much closer than the first two. Spectacular sight with so many popping up at once. There were a number of tail slaps, but no breaching that I saw. Just cruising quickly north.

back of camera photo by Steve Rice, November 1, 2024

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17:48 - Northbound approaching Eagle Harbor [approx. 47.609870, -122.472514].

Alexander Simenstad

-

17:34 - Viewing lots of whales from Me-Kwa-Mooks Park.

Aisha Rashid

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Teagan Connolly

Date of Sighting: November 01, 2024

Time: 5:33 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: 47.5797163, -122.4331735

Direction of travel : E

Behaviors observed:

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

photos by Teagan Connolly, November 1, 2024

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17:25 - About eight dorsals and spouts making their way north leisurely, almost in line with Vashon ferry terminal as viewed southwest from Emma Schmitz.

Russ Mann

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17:17 - Second group just passed Lincoln Park visible with eyes. Traveling closer together.

Aisha Rashid

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17:10 - My final update. Seeing a group of at least 16 north of Blake Island mid channel, line of sight Fort Ward. Northbound. Saw a spy hop in this group.

16:50 - Leading group is approaching east side of Blake island quickly. Trailing group has paused and is milling at the most northern tip of Vashon. Northbound.

16:47 - Split into two groups again, leading group approaching Blake Island, mid/island side. Trailing group not far behind. Northbound.

16:40 - Line of sight just north of Dolphin Point, seeing surface activity and blows with the naked eye from Lincoln Park, moving eastbound.

Nikol Damato, Orca Network

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16:47 - From Lincoln Park trailing superpod group. 

photo by Robin Sinner, November 1, 2024

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16:36 - From Lincoln Park: very surface active. Breaching, tail slaps. Appear to be trending east toward Fauntleroy.

Megan Stuart Chapin

-

16:35 - They are well on the east side and still south of the Fauntleroy ferry dock northbound.

Jim Pasola

-

16:31 - From the Vashon ferry. Two large groups headed east, surface active [video in FB comments].

Andrea Vance

-

16:30 - People on the stalled ferry near mainland were treated to breaches, tail slaps and what seemed like a resting line by one group. Now in the ferry lanes east of mid channel. Slow northbound travel.

Pia VanHanen

-

16:30 - Viewing from the Fauntleroy southworth ferry they stopped for a breach fest south of the ferry lanes and then continued tightly grouped east/northeast.

Jim Pasola

-

16:30 - Seems to be drifting south after tail lob and breach fest south of Vashon ferry dock.

Mary Hartmann

-

16:30 - View through camera viewfinder looking south from Emma Schmitz [video in FB comments].

Steve Rice

-

16:28 - From Vashon ferry terminal, somewhere near pin, seem to be heading northbound [approx. 47.512794, -122.415612].

Jas Minka

-

16:24 - I can see blows and fins straight across from the Fauntleroy dock, Vashon side. Ferry is paused.

Andrea Vance

-

16:22 - From Fauntleroy - some whales in the ferry lanes, more south of the lanes, northbound travel in mid channel.

Pia VanHanen

-

16:33 - Still viewing from Lincoln Park, big group moving steadily northbound again, blows visible with naked eye.

16:26 - Seeing breaches all the way from over here!

16:07 - Now seeing two groups of blows, one near the terminal and one trailing south of the ferry lanes. All northbound, close to island.

16:01 - Seeing many blows across the channel from Lincoln Park, island side, northbound.

Nikol Damato, Orca Network

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Date & Time: 01-Nov-24 1600-16:50

Type of Cetacean: Dolphin [orca]

Orcas; Adult males: ~18; SKRWs (J, K, and L Pods), open saddle patches 

Number of Whales: ~72

Location of Whale(s): Offshore Glen Acres (Vashon) to Blake Island, viewing from Lincoln Park; west of mid, near Vashon ferry path; Approx. coordinates of whales: 47.4776008, -122.4361538 to 47.5383733, -122.4541276

Direction of travel: North

Speed of travel: slow

Surfacing and frequent blows, some breaching, some spy hopping, frequent tail lobbing and tail slapping; milling; foraging; hunting, circling and directional changes but overall movement to North

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Erinn McIntyre

Date of Sighting: November 01, 2024

Time: 4:00 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 12

Where seen: North east side of Vashon (by Fauntleroy)

Direction of travel : North, then back south

Behaviors observed: Hunting. Tail slapping, breaching, spouting

If orcas, any males?: Yes

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

-

15:46 - Research boat and large male coming into view from Vashon ferry terminal.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

-

15:31 - Two beautiful large groups, island side of channel, just passing Glen Acres, northbound, others spread out passing a little closer to mid channel.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

-

15:21 - Still seeing the group from Three Tree Point, spread out northbound, Vashon side of mid. Smaller lead group closer to mid channel. Research boat trailing behind.

Megan Stuart Chapin

-

15:21 - Straight out across the water from Seahurst neighborhood - not park. Bunches of spouts and surfacing. Very close to Vashon.

Susan Plecko

-

15:13 - Orcas at Dilworth northbound with research boat.

Amy Carey, Sound Action

-

15:02 - Definitely heading north. By Dilworth now.

Ali Saccone

-

14:50 - Lead large group heading north/northwest quite north of KVI now, island side of channel.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

-

14:38 - Seeing fins north of the channel marker heading north. I'm in Seahurst and hard to see them even with a telescope. Close to the Vashon side.

Susan Plecko

-

14:33 - Viewing from KVI as they head north, closer to Three Tree side.

Jeff Meredith

-

14:29 - The group split. One still by the white and red antenna, the other a bit north. There is a small white boat with a black outboard motor still with them.

14:09 - Still watching from the cove. I see them again and the boast with them. Still in the general area. They haven’t moved much.

Ali Saccone

-

14.22 - Northbound off KVI… by mid channel marker.

Mark McGough

-

14:11 - Heading northbound now towards Three Tree Point closer to mainland side.

Robyn Socal

-

13:45 - Just north of Point Robinson, Vashon side. Seem to have flipped north. Lots of blows, at least 20+. I saw three boats with them.

Ali Saccone

-

13:37 - They seem to be trending southeast midchannel. Seeing fins can't make them out yet. They still pretty far north of Point Robinson.

David Bennett

-

13:27 - Seeing fins from Point Robinson to the north. 

Kirsten Vacura

-

13:25 - Slightly north of Point Robinson. Lots of blows.

Ali Saccone

-

13:50 - Lost them for a while but just resighted them, northbound west side of channel a ways north of Point Robinson.

13:02 - Finally spotted them from Marine View Park near Des Moines. Mid channel southbound towards Point Robinson. Small research boat with them. Visibility keeps changing but hoping for a better view as they get closer.

Connor O'Brien

-

12:51 - Mid channel. In line with north end of Maury. Southbound. Really hard to see out there.

Mark McGough

-

12:05 - Viewing from Three Tree Point, seeing the first group coming into view! Vashon side, poor visibility from here.

Nikol Damato, Orca Network

-

11:48 - First group has just passed Dilworth, second group still coming from north.

Amy Carey, Sound Action

-

11:42 - Down by Dilworth now - headed south!

Emily Hendrickson

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Erinn McIntyre

Date of Sighting: November 01, 2024

Time: 11:30 AM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen: 12

Where seen: Off east side of Vashon (Glen Acres)

Direction of travel : South.

Behaviors observed: Hunting, spouting, tail slapping, breaching

If orcas, any males?: Yes

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Stunning. Clearly hunting. Foggy, and container ships did not seem to be running, thank goodness. They are loud and frequent. Delightful to see so many!

Photos available?:

-

11:48 - Two large groups at least, can confirm seeing members of all three pods, lead large group just south of Glen Acres, close in to island, at least 25+ whales, next group approaching of about a dozen, all leisurely southbound. So incredibly beautiful.

11:19 - Lots of whales coming into view now, southbound just out from Glen Acres - lots of males, island side of channel.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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10:55 - Still seeing fins and blows from Lincoln. South of Dolphin Point. Still heading south. Visibility is bad.

Jodi Winterton

-

10:50 - I’m pretty sure we have Ks and Ls with Js this morning.

Shari Tarantino, Orca Conservancy

-

10:34 - At least 8+ already south of ferry lane after the flip southbound.

Yanwei Cai

-

10:25 - Large pod of orca near Vashon. WSF vessel reports all around them, drifting south but have gone north and back recently. Viewed from Southworth Terminal Sups office.

Wayne McFarland

-

10:25 - Donna McCrea, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: CATHLAMET Captain reports 25 pod ORCAS surrounded vessel near Blake Island. Vessel is at stand still.

-

10:10 - The group west in the channel off of Blake flipped to go south, now off the south tip of Blake.

Mike Yov

-

09:55 - A group of eight to ten whales traveling northbound, far west of channel, approaching Tillikum Village from Fauntleroy vantage point of viewing. Don’t think these kiddos made it past the Froy ferry lanes earlier, another group/more whales…?

09:42 - Viewing from Fauntleroy. A group of whales traveling northbound towards Blake Island far on the west side.

Pia VanHanen

-

09:42 - Actually going northbound between Southworth and Blake.

09:36 - Seeing multiple dorsals west in channel in line with Southworth dock view from Lincoln Park. This group looks southbound.

Mary Hartmann

-

09:36 - Visibility terrible, lost all the fins I was seeing. Hearing from friend viewing from Dolphin Point of possible flip north and surface active in ferry lanes.

09:04 - Seeing breaches and blows in line with Dolphin Point, look to be southbound, island side of channel.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

-

09:00 - Just had a very active group pass the Vashon ferry southbound. Moving quickly and spread out closer to Vashon side of channel.

Jennifer Nichols Giron

-

08:59 - Several orcas sighted hunting, breaching and swimming off the Vashon ferry terminal. At least 15. Between 08:00 - 09:00.

Kristi Michele Rettmann

-

08:56 - Large pod of orca between Blake Island and Vashon. Lots of activity. Breaches, tail slaps.

Wayne McFarland

-

09:08 - And some still approaching Vashon coming from north!

09:05 - Viewing from Fauntleroy. Another group of six to eight past the ferry lanes. Mid channel southbound travel, between mainland and Vashon.

08:52 - Viewing from Fauntleroy. Some approaching Brace Point, some between Vashon and Blake, some still in the ferry lanes. Several groups of whales. Midchannel southbound.

08:45 - Several whales passed the Fauntleroy ferry lanes, spread from east to west. Southbound travel.

Pia VanHanen

-

08:39 - Donna McCrea, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: CATHLAMET Captain reports upon departure from FAU>VASH 6-7 Orca near Blake Island southbound.

-

08:20 - A group of whales [orcas] seen from the water taxi headed west. We were heading east just south of Blake Island.

Annette Messitt

-

08:15 - From east side of 08:15 water taxi departing Vashon [FB comments].

Bradley Kramer

-

00:45 - OrcaHello AI detected J pod calls at 00:45 on the Sunset Bay hydrophone. There were many S02i and S01 calls at moderate signal-to-noise ratio and a high call rate. Link to clip.

Scott Veirs, Orcasound

Thu, Oct 31 - Puget Sound (J Pod)

18:00 - The leaders went into Port Susan where they disappeared behind Camano Head as viewed from Sandy Point.

Hongming Zheng

-

17:28 - In between Sandy Point and Tulalip/Tulalip Bay northbound grouping up a little.

17:00 - Viewing from southside of Sandy Point. Northbound but slowing down a bit possibly foraging/milling.

16:38 - Fins are aimed northbound. Still spread out. See area marked on map [approx. 48.041705, -122.349575].

Marilyn Armbruster

-

17:17 - Found them still going northwest [approx. 48.036749, -122.354340].

16:37 - Found them on the ferry. Paralleling the ferry lane, most going northwest [approx. 47.993539, -122.328396].

Hongming Zheng

-

Our ferry stopped so they could pass! Picture by Islander Nathan Moyal.

photo courtesy of Lori Christopher, October 31, 2024

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Cindy Mulholland

Date of Sighting: October 31, 2024

Time: 4:30 PM

Species seen: Or a

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: SE side of Hat Island

Direction of travel : North

Behaviors observed: Traveling.

If orcas, any males?: One

Any unusual markings?: Too far away to see

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: They stayed in this area for about 20 minutes. A couple seemed to jump partially out of the water.

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

-

16:27 - Back at Madrona. They are still south of Hat under Pilchuck. That’s the best I can do with line of sight. There is a small boat with them. Saw some surface activity. Don’t hold me to this, but it looks like they are headed back north. 

15:50 - Viewing from Madrona. They are super spread from south of Hat back towards Everett. No direction.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

15:44 - We saw a few start to head south from Grand Park in Everett. Now at Mukilteo to see if we can tell. 

Joe Dreimiller

-

15:35 - We have not seen them progress north from the last location. Possible flip.

15:02 - They are continuing northbound between Hat and Whidbey.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

14:50 - Three more just north of the ferry dock.

Natalie Scantlen

-

14:50 - A few or orcas have passed on west side of Hat northbound with more coming.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

14:47 - Last couple whales I’ve seen are closer to Whidbey.

14:40 - I finally got eyes on a few. Going between Whidbey and Hat mid-channel.

Debbie Stewart

-

14:50 - Three more just north of the ferry dock.

14:44 - Actually I see more crossing the ferry lanes well behind the bigger group.

14:41 - [video in FB comments].

Natalie Scantlen

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Krista Loercher

Date of Sighting: October 31, 2024

Time: 2:39 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: Clinton, passing ferry dock, headed north

Direction of travel : North

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?: Yes

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

-

14:37 - They’re just passing Clinton dock. Super spread out but there were a lot of them. Every time I thought they were gone another came into view. Could there be eight of them?

Tiffany Dana Kelly

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Deb Freal

Date of Sighting: October 31, 2024

Time: 2:35 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 3

Where seen: 200 yds off Clinton Ferry dock

Direction of travel : N

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: 1

Any unusual markings?: Couldn’t see well enough

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: So exciting to see these amazing mammals. We live 5 houses south of the ferry dock. Always amazing when they go by.

Photos available?: No

-

14:21 - Leaders are smack dab in the ferry lanes. Still a big spread. They are all still going north.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

14:17 - Approaching the ferry lanes northbound just east of mid channel! A small boat is slowly trailing them.

Natalie Scantlen

-

14:13 - Almost out of my view now, still headed north but have trended east towards mid channel rather than the Whidbey side so may be headed towards Mukilteo Lighthouse Park side. 

13:58 - Some just passed Glendale, headed north towards Clinton, boat is with them.

Ed Pearson

-

13:45 - Orca spread across the channel north/south and east/west, some just reaching Glendale now.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

13:50 - At least four straight out from Possession Beach boat launch middish channel northbound.

13:45 - Appearing to be just on the Mukilteo side of mid northbound.

13:35 - Towards Shipwreck.

13:30 - Nearing Possession Beach Park boat launch northbound middish channel.

photo by Marilyn Armbruster, October 31, 2024

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13:30 - Friend can see them south of Glendale. Saw one breach, seeing blows.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

13:24 - Orcas still northbound from Stamm, starting to get out of range. Large male lacking south but north of green buoy. Humpback in area meandering north along Whidbey shore.

Justin Goslin

-

13:20 - Taking a lunch break, but leaving Stamm they’re really spread out in between Possession Point and Picnic Point, midchannel, with a group heading north towards Mukilteo/Clinton, another group closer to Possession Point, and one adorable male being his usual lazy self WAY south.

13:11 - There’s some milling and directional changes, but quite a few are still pushing steady north. They’re right in midchannel, looks like in between Possession Point & Picnic Point, so they might be hard to see.

12:42 - Still spread out, but not quite as wide. Moving steady northbound, but don’t seem committed up towards Mukilteo yet [approx. 47.878252, -122.399875].

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

-

12:07 - Thanks for the above reports, watching air time from Sunset.

Justin Goslin

-

12:04 - Only blows visible now from Apple Tree Point but wide spread north to south midchannel - from Picnic Point to north of Haines Wharf trending southeast as far as I can tell.

Donna Green Van Renselaar

-

12:00 - VERY spread out, actually. Seeing some as far north as Stamm to Cultus Bay, lazily northbound.

11:54 - Viewing from Stamm. Line of sight is here to Eglon, probably on the mainland side of midchannel. Looks like they’re spread out and milling. Soundwatch is with them.

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

-

11:55 - Update directional changes/foraging behavior before disappearing farther east into the triangle but I just saw a fin pop up halfway between Picnic Point and Haines wharf north of Edmonds still southbound midchannel.

11:48 - Male fin sightline from Apple Tree Point to gap between Possession Point and Mukilteo which means west side of the the triangle towards midchannel southbound.

Donna Green Van Renselaar

-

11:37 - Map, there’s a little zodiac or something following them, maybe the research boat [approx. 47.869728, -122.424231].

11:30 - Spread out east of the shipping lanes heading south down Possession triangle. Three big breaches. 

11:21 - They’re heading back south just outside of Eglon. 

09:45 - They’re foraging and there’s a billion sea birds surrounding them trending north. Just southwest of Possession Point.

09:50 - They are almost all out of my view heading up west side of Whidbey. Breaching. Sea birds seem to be following them. 

09:35 - I see orcas on the west side of triangle heading north around Eglon. They’re almost to the Admiralty side of Whidbey but still in Possession triangle. They’re spread out and may be Jpod.

Alice Thuy Talbot

Wed, Oct 30 - Puget Sound (J Pod)

19:49 - Calls on Sunset Bay hydrophone.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

19:42 - I have been hearing very faint calls off and on on Sunset Bay hydrophone for the last half hour and now they are louder.

Linda Aitkins

-

19:35 - Calls on Sunset.

Breanne Denise Ward

-

15:31 - Kingston back to Edmonds, large male foraging.

14:46 - Edmonds Kingston ferry slowing for whales, have only seen one male seemingly foraging, closer to Kingston side.

Kelly Dawson

-

14:39 - John Miler, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 14:46 to report: 1439hrs: SPOKANE Captain reports via 800MHz, they have slowed due to 5 orca moving northbound within the traffic lanes. 

-

14:35 - Kingston to Edmonds ferry. Had to slow down again for J26 as he and others were slow northbound in the ferry lane, some foraging dives [approx. 47.820071, -122.414663].

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

-

14:03 - Just saw orcas to the north of the Edmonds/Kingston ferry, during crossing.

Susan Hadley Rose

-

14:00 - Walked on the 13:30 sailing from Edmonds to Kingston. Orcas in ferry lane all across the channel. J26 Mike present.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

-

14:00 - From the ferry as they passed going northbound.

Jami Cantrell

-

13:57 - Last sighting for me was about 20 minutes ago single male orca close to Kitsap side heading north towards Kingston.

Ashley Alecci Goninan

-

13:51 - The Kingston ferry just slowed down for four orcas. They were heading north, Kitsap side.

Cyrilla Cook

-

13:36 - Pretty sure I just saw a dorsal from Kayu Kayu… just in time for a train to pass in front of me.

Kelly Dawson

-

13:18 - Fins pointed north and south must be foraging.

13:15 - Little closer to west side of channel.

13:14 - Seeing dorsal fins in front of President Point midchannel by buoy. 

Ashley Alecci Goninan

-

12:07 - Seeing several fins off Fay Bainbridge over by Shilshole. Three were moving pretty fast northbound and another two further behind.

Wendy Underhill

-

11:58 - They have continued northbound past Discovery lighthouse. A few fins off in the distance where pointed south, but everyone else is north so just some probable foraging as they go. Group that was east side is pushing more midchannel.

Jami Cantrell

-

11:50 - J40, J44, and J45 in group passing West Point lighthouse.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

-

11:48 - Some have slowed way down in front of Discovery Point Lighthouse way east side not moving much possibly resting/slight foraging.

Jami Cantrell

-

11:41 - Just spotted south from Shilshole marina, at breaching out mid channel.

Rubie H Baker

-

11:38 - Six more whales northbound between Magnolia and Skiff Point. Mid- west of channel.

11:23 - Three orcas northbound approaching yellow buoy marker off West Point Lighthouse/Discovery Park. Midchannel.

Sue Surowiec Larkin

-

11:21 - Still a group of whales headed north mid channel.

11:18 - Viewing from Discovery Park looking towards Bainbridge. Research boat was with them but looks to have headed back south maybe towards West Seattle?

Mandy Michelle

-

11:12 - They were visible from Alki Beach they are north now.

Hannah Marie Munro

-

10:55 - North of Seattle-Bainbridge ferry lanes northbound.

Hongming Zheng

-

10:40 - Viewing many animals from Old Creosote on Bainbridge Island approaching the ferry lanes trending north.

Kimberly Sylvester

-

10:38 - Some still with research boat in line with Murden Cove view from 64th and Alki.

photos by Mary Hartmann, October 30, 2024

-

10:30 - Eight plus orcas seen passing the area of Alki by the water taxi mid channel, breaching!

Laura Clark

-

10:15 - Second group passing Alki now. Large group. Very active. Small research boat with them.

Jodi Winterton

-

J27 Blackberry

10:08 - From 64th Alki.

photo by Steve Rice, October 30, 2024

-

10:00 - J-Pod Zoomies at Alki Point this morning. Autumn colors autumning, research boat researching. Link to more photos.

photos by Hongming Zheng, October 30, 2024

-

10:00 - From Emma Schmitz seeing them spread from north end Blake to north of yellow buoy at Restoration Point Maybe some foraging?

Stephanie Raymond, Orca Network

-

09:54 - Two individuals seen from Emma Schmitz midchannel moving northbound.

photos by Kathleen Fife, October 30, 2024

-

09:50 - Visible from Alki. Mid channel looking toward south end of BB. Northbound.

Jodi Winterton

-

09:40 - Watching from Emma Schmitz, at least two two males northbound at north end of Vashon, north bound traffic lanes or possibly east of lanes.

Stephanie Raymond, Orca Network

-

09:33 - Closer to the southern end of Bainbridge right now.

09:30 - Some proceeding to the side of the Yang Ming boat.

09:26 - Proceeding to the northern end of Blake on the east side.

09:23 - Just South of Blake Island northbound.

Jeff Meredith

-

09:15 - At least two northbound in line with Southworth ferry dock as viewed from Emma Schmitz. Closer to east side of channel.

Steve Rice

-

09:12 - Seeing them from Lincoln Park mid channel in direction of Blake. Northbound.

Jodi Winterton

-

09:05 - Seeing blows get smaller now much north of Lincoln Park so am assuming a flip northbound.

08:57 - Seeing blows now north of Fauntleroy, appear to be mid to mainland side of.

08:36 - Friend relaying message from north end Vashon ferry dock worker pod headed southbound.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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07:58 - Orcas spotted from the Southworth fast ferry this morning.

Sarah Reber

Tue, Oct 29 - Haro Strait (K Pod & L Pod)

Absolutely wonderful visit with K & L Pods today - a treat after envying all the J-Pod time down south recently. Link to FB videos.

Nate Rooks

-

From: Dean Terry

Date and Time Sighting Observed: 2024-10-29 03:45 PM

Marine Mammal Type: Orca (Killer Whale) SRKW

If SRKW, select pod/s:

If other:

Number of Marine Mammals Observed: 6

Latitude:

Longitude:

Country: Within Canada International Boundary

General Location: Other

If other: In front of Brittania Beach observed a new born killer whale.

Describe what you saw:

-

15:11 - Lime Kiln camera now. I'm pretty sure I'm viewing the live feed. Huge pod of orcas.

Tim Harder

-

14:14 - Group traveling together. Approaching Pile Point. Heading up island. Others are milling off of Pile Point. Viewing from north of Eagle Point.

13:32 - Leaders of South Beach group approaching Eagle Point. Heading up Island.

13:24 - From my view the South Beach group seems to be moving up island. Viewing from north of Eagle Point.

Jenny Stands Wilson [WSSJI]

-

13:10 - Group of mixed L12s and L54s heading in towards Pile Point. Update: can confirm it was all of Ks and Ls!

11:50 - Grouped up several miles offshore currently aiming South Beach.

11:10 - Ks and Ls crossing Haro eastbound.

Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

-

Excerpt from the Center for Whale Research Encounter #110:

“Mark and Brendon left Victoria Harbour on Mike 1 at 0943 after receiving an early report from Gord, who had spotted two large groups of whales traveling south of Discovery Island, south of Oak Bay. They arrived on scene at 1005, locating the whales near the southwestern edge of Middle Bank. Ahead of them were two distinct groups: one moving northeast and the other heading southeast. They opted to begin with the northern group, which was travelling slightly faster, which Brendon quickly identified as K pod. All the whales were in a tight travelling formation; the closest whales to Mike 1 included members of the K12s and K13s, while the K14s and K16s were the furthest. After taking proof of presence photos, Mark and Brendon confirmed that all members were present, except for K26, who has been notably absent in the last three K pod encounters…”

Read more here at Center for Whale Research Encounter #110.

Tue, Oct 29 - Puget Sound (J Pod)

photo by Sara Frey, October 29, 2024

-

22:30 - Faint calls still being heard on Sunset Bay hydrophone.

Brooke Casanova

-

20:13 - Hearing some faint calls now.

19:59 - Loud calls on Sunset Bay.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

19:02 - Could be wrong but sounds like faint clicking on Sunset.

Breanne Denise Ward

-

17:22 - They’ve moved up north towards Admiralty side of Whidbey.

16:35 - They’re still more or less in the same spot.

16:08 - They’ve stalled. Same general area, foraging breaching.

Alice Thuy Talbot

-

15:55 - Watched two adult males on the west side of the shipping lanes slowly trend north/northeast - likely joining up with the group Alice was seeing. They were in the same general area as her map shows one minute before my post.

Sara Frey

-

15:55 - Leaders have made it to about here [47.871766, -122.397620]. Blows covering the triangle, looks so cool.

Alice Thuy Talbot

-

15:48 - Hearing faint calls on Sunset Bay hydrophone

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

15:40 - Looks like the pod is heading east pretty quickly at the moment.

Alice Thuy Talbot

-

15:30 - Now proceeding northbound off Apple Tree Point. Two adult males.

15:25 - Kingston to Haines Wharf. West shipping lanes. Milling.

Sara Frey

-

15:10 - North. Last spotted on a line between the Edmonds ferry dock and Eglon.

15:00 - West side, out from Edmonds ferry dock.

Clint Jones

-

14:36 - John Miller, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 14:59 to report: 1436hrs: Vessel SUQUAMISH reports via 800MHz a group of 6 orca, due east of KING approx. 2 miles. SPOKANE notified and verified the sighting.

-

14:45 - This lead group has gone back north out of my sight from Kingston pretty close to the west side.

14:39 - The group I'm watching has moved to the north of the ferry lanes and a bit west foraging generally facing north but who knows.

14:30 - From Kingston I've got what I guess are the leaders west of mid channel line of sight the Edmonds ferry terminal. They're not spending much time at the surface but I don't blame them It's cold and windy.

Jim Pasola

-

14:33 - Most whales on the west side are past Apple Tree Point. Others were ahead more towards mid channel. Trailers including I believe Blackberry are west shipping lanes approaching the ferry. Steady, slow travel with occasional foraging.

14:20 - Southbound line of sight Apple Tree to Haines wharf, some may be approaching ferry. West side of shipping lanes.

Sara Frey

-

14:05 - Sara Frey called to report seeing 3 males west side of shipping lanes, southbound, out from Apple Tree Point, longer down times.

-

14:02 - Have a male southbound west side of shipping lanes. Just north of Apple Tree Point.

14:00 - After I saw a group southbound, everyone disappeared except one male who was westbound. Research boat just ran past going south so not with the whales now.

Sara Frey

-

13:47 - Still hearing some faint calls on Sunset Bay.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

13:47 - Still hearing faint calls on the Sunset Bay hydrophone.

Orca Network

-

13:40 - Seeing them north of Apple Tree Point. - maybe Eglon area. At least some I believe have flipped and are southbound.

Sara Frey

-

13:35 - I moved to Point No Point after my last comment. Initially I saw a few trailers that appeared to be west of mid-channel. And the NOAA boat was with the leaders. Now the NOAA boat is out of sight and I haven't seen a whale in a good 10 minutes. Guessing they moved east!

Jim Pasola

-

13:30 - I’ve been watching them slowly trend north almost to Admiralty side of Whidbey and it looks like they are now trending back south still on the west side of mid triangle.

Alice Thuy Talbot

-

13:07 - Heard one call on Sunset Bay hydrophone.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

13:07 - Hearing calls on the Sunset Bay hydrophone.

Orca Network

-

13:05 - Seeing spouts from Sunset Ave. 

Sarah Crumb

-

12:35 - Leaders are making time now my line of sight between Haines wharf and the Sunset Bay structure, hydrophone might be a good bet.

12:32 - The leaders are making some time their line of sight Haines wharf already. And they appear to be moving west, closer to me. Trailers are lingering foraging more.

12:20 - From Eglon, the leaders are straight out not yet to Haines wharf, trailers are line of sight Edmonds ferry terminal. NOAA boat somewhere in the middle, look like about mid-channel.

Jim Pasola

-

12:25 - J pod way offshore of Edmonds, north/northeast heading toward the triangle. Research boat on scene.

11:40 - J38 present. All have cleared the Edmonds/Kingston ferry lanes and are midchannel headed slowly northbound. Very spread and doing deep foraging dives.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

-

J47 Notch

J39 Mako

11:00 - 11:30 - J Pod from the ferry. Link to more photos.

photos & IDs by Janine Harles, October 29, 2024

-

10:30 - Video of J Pod northbound spread across the channel from President Point to Richmond Beach. I was trying to get video of the big guy and quickly realized the fins way off in the distance! 

10:27 - Northbound in front of President Point west side of channel. Update: super spread out all across the channel!

Ashley Alecci Goninan

-

09:58 - Headed northbound. Between Golden Gardens and north beach on the west side of the Sound.

Fi NiMhuirgheasa

-

09:30 - At least three orcas between Shilshoe and south Fay Bainbridge Park making directional changes. Mid to west of shipping lanes.

photos by Sue Surowiec Larkin, October 29, 2024

-

09:17 - Laurie Baker, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 09:28 to report: 0917hrs: [CHELAN] Vessel reports spotting 3 orcas heading north, located in the TSS miles north of West Point Lighthouse

-

08:32 - The Victoria Clipper reported a large group of orcas just south of the Edmonds/Kingston ferry lanes, no direction given. Sounds probable for J pod.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network 

Mon, Oct 28 - Puget Sound (J Pod)

16:15 - Lost sight of them as the foraged and slowly headed north/northeast into the rain squall.

15:57 - Seeing multiple splashes and spyhops. Whales appear to be in middle of the ferry lanes, viewing from Edmonds Marina Beach toward Apple Tree houses.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

-

15:30 - Beautiful ferry pass by Jpod. They’re generally sound bound with some directional changes west. Breaching up a storm.

15:07 - Also some others approximately here it seems from my line of sight southbound [47.833450, -122.411868].

15:04 - Southbound approximately here moving decently fast [47.797254, -122.451693].

14:39 - From the ferry when they were going south. This group is still headed south. Looks like Jpod to me.

Jami Cantrell

-

14:30 - At least one group northbound mid channel off Apple Tree Point. Moving quickly towards the triangle. Couple of males, females. Difficult conditions.

Sara Frey

14:20 - Orcas are southbound approaching Edmonds ferry lanes Edmonds side of mid.

Jami Cantrell

-

10:59 - They were headed northbound.

Kimberly Kay

-

10:03 - Donna McCrea, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: [SUQUAMISH] Captain reports 3-5 Orca SW of EDM no particular direction.

-

09:47 - From the Kingston bound ferry. Group was very active between the two ferries. I saw at least three. Middle of ferry travel lanes heading towards Edmonds. Both boats were slowed and they were between us. We saw one breach and at least one very large fin.

photo by Kelli Finnigan McNees, October 28, 2024

-

08:24 - Victoria Clipper V reports a single orca southbound between Carkeek Park and the Shilshole Marina.

Stephanie Raymond, Orca Network 

Tue, Nov 5 - Haro Strait

15:30 - Orca sighting. Six miles south of Lime Kiln, westbound.

Fred Horn [WSSJI]

Tue, Nov 5 - Guemes Channel (T37As)

This was the T37As, and from my photos, it looks like T99C was in the mix. Not sure if all the 99s were there, but can confirm the 37As.

Tamara Kelley, Orca Conservancy

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Cynthia Nielsen

Date of Sighting: November 05, 2024

Time: 4:12 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: Guemes Channel near old Lovric Shipyard

Direction of travel : Heading west

Behaviors observed: Travelling

If orcas, any males?: 2

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

photo by Cynthia Nielsen, November 5, 2024

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16:00 - Five orcas spotted on north side of Anacortes. Heading west.

photo by Doug Noell, November 5, 2024

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13:48 - Scratch that, they are still out there, wayyyy out in the distance. Thanks binoculars!

Amber Jordan

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12:53 - Four orcas between Cap Sante and Hat Island, one male, four females. No direction, just frolicking [approx. 48.521354, -122.585312].

Luke Schwantes 

Fri, Nov 1 - San Juans (T34s & T37s)

13:05 - T34s/T37s heading up island from American Camp.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

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11:02 - Orcas splashing/milling between Whale Rocks and east shore of San Juan Island in Cattle Pass. Looks like six or seven with one small one. Could be moving slightly to the south.

Dale Wallgren Prugar [WSSJI]

Mon, Oct 28 - Penn Cove/Saratoga Passage (T99s minus T99B)

T99E & T99C Barakat

The T99s playfully passed the east side of Whidbey Island on Monday. The double spy hops had me giddy! Link to more photos.

photos by Mollie Segall, October 28, 2024

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T99E & T99 Bella

T99C Barakat

A quick catch up on those sneaky T99s, after they’d spent time in Penn Cove and were heading south in Saratoga Passage. Always good to see them - love my distant views! 

photos by Jill Hein, October 28, 2024

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18:13 - Heard and saw them from Langley Marina, three to four surfacings, then stealth mode.

Francie L Dailer

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18:18 - Saw them at seawall Langley… trying to see if I can still spot them but they seem to have disappeared.

18:05 - Heard them, heard the blow hole… and now faintly seeing the dorsal. Getting closer to Langley seawall.

Victoria Hand

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17:10 - Barakat stopped to play with a crab pot for a few minutes while the rest of the pod continued south, hugging Whidbey side. This was as they rounded East Point [video in FB comments].

Mollie Segall

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17:00 - Between East Point and Bells Beach southbound [video in FB comments].

16:50 - Have passed Fox Spit southbound.

Marilyn Armbruster

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16:49 - Passing Fox Spit now, hugging Whidbey side, southbound.

Charvet Drucker

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16:25 - They are hanging around the green channel marker north of Baby Island. No direction. I’ve lost them. They may be headed towards EastPoint.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

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16:22 - Directional changes one has moved over towards Baby Island direction there of.

16:15 - Entered Holmes Harbor passing Baby Island, mid channel.

16:00 - They’ve passed Hidden Beach southbound possibly towards Holmes Harbor?

Marilyn Armbruster

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16:06 - Our friends have passed Hidden Beach and are now entering Holmes Harbor.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

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15:50 - Heading south two miles north of Hidden Beach mid channel.

photo by Aaron Gill, October 28, 2024

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15:25 - They are north of Hidden Beach, southbound, about bit outside buoy line, so close to Whidbey.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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15:09 - Past Race Lagoon. Barakat and Puck Whidbey side of mid. Bella and E close to Whidbey. southbound. Hidden Beach next.

13:53 - Aiming south in Saratoga.

13:45 - East side of Long Point, whales are surface active and changing directions - have moved south a bit off shore.

Sarah Geist

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13:40 - There are actually four and they did a close pass by Long Point, headed southbound.

12:40 - Three orcas exiting Penn Cove including one large male!

Fell Cheston

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13:11 - Video courtesy [T99s off Coupeville wharf] of Mandi Black WIWS.

Kevin Phillips

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Chris S. Geiger

Date of Sighting: October 28, 2024

Time:

Species seen: Orcas, two adults, two juveniles

Number of animals seen: 4

Where seen: 200 feet north of Coupeville Wharf

Direction of travel : Eastbound

Behaviors observed: Hunting--Eating

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Breaching up and out of the water, doing the back splash!

Photos available?: No

Mon, Nov 4 - Hood Canal

12:00 - I saw one pretty large orca surface twice in front of my house at about noon today in Hood Canal off Hood Canal Drive. We are north of Port Gamble and the Hood Canal Bridge on the east side of the Canal. It appeared to be traveling south and alone.

Rebecca Richardson

Wed, Nov 6 - Strait of Juan de Fuca

11:42 - Picked up another [humpback]. Same location [as 2nd report]. Circling.

11:37 - Got another [humpback]... Southeast bound four knots [approx. 48.308079, -123.397040].

10:59 - Single humpback feeding westbound [in Strait of Juan de Fuca] [approx. 48.330792, -123.249034].

A

Wed, Nov 6 - Puget Sound

16:45 - Saw humpback cruising around Brown’s Bay.

photo by Sheila Guard, November 6, 2024

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14:47 - Adorable humpback, northbound here [approx. 47.833173, -122.427244].

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

Tue, Nov 5 - Puget Sound

14:30 - Going through my videos of JPod I see these two cuties [humpbacks] in the mix. Passing Chennault Beach area [video in FB comments].

Alice Thuy Talbot

Sun, Nov 3 - Strait of Juan de Fuca

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Sheila Kluck

Date of Sighting: November 03, 2024

Time: 3:32 PM

Species seen: Humpback

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: South of Victoria & Discovery Island, on the BC side

Direction of travel : Circling and feeding

Behaviors observed: Hunting

If orcas, any males?: No

Any unusual markings?: White edge on fluke

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

Photos available?: No

Sun, Nov 3 - Haro Strait

09:22 - Orcas [edited to humpbacks at 09:29] on Lime Kiln [webcam].

T.L. Stokes

Sat, Nov 2 - Puget Sound

12:54 - Friend reports humpbacks are northbound from Glendale, not far off Whidbey.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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12:55 - Can confirm two humpbacks (one smaller, one larger) traveling together, northbound, Whidbey side, just north of Glendale now.

12:41 - Single humpback spotted within view of SRKW's from Glendale, west of midchannel.

Katie Davis Watkins

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10:31 - Either very long down time or they went out of my view north towards Mukilteo/Clinton ferry lanes as I haven't see them since my last post.

10:15 - They are mid channel off Glendale, were breaching and milling around. Not sure on direction of travel.

Ed Pearson

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07:40 - Saw a humpback facing south in front of Chennault Beach in Mukilteo [video in FB comments shows two humpbacks together]. 

Alice Thuy Talbot

Fri, Nov 1 - San Juans

09:00 - Donna McCrea, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 09:15 to report: SEALTH Captain reports one Humpback near James Rock.

Thu, Oct 31 - Puget Sound

14:00 - Out from Possession Beach shore a little bit.

13:50 - Humpback out from Possession Beach Park boat launch southbound [videos in FB comments].

Marilyn Armbruster

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13:50 - Humpback still slowly heading north along Whidbey shore just behind JPod.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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13:24 - Orcas still northbound from Stamm, starting to get out of range. Large male lacking south but north of green buoy. Humpback in area meandering north along Whidbey shore.

Justin Goslin

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12:58 - I just saw a humpback, northbound, here-ish [approx. 47.898892, -122.373541].

Sara Montour Lewis, Our Wild Puget Sound

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07:50 - Two humpback whales traveling together in the [Possession] triangle [approx. 47.866198, -122.402958]. Facing north. Saw them surface just slightly north the second time. Third time they were kind of in the same area.

Alice Thuy Talbot 

Wed, Nov 6 - Puget Sound

11:32 - Baleen whale observed from Stamm Overlook believed to be minke, continued slow south meander near shore.

10:50 - Baleen whale sighted south of orcas in front of Stamm Overlook. South meander.

Justin Goslin

Tue, Nov 5 - Puget Sound

Right before Jpod appeared I had what appeared to be a minke whale off Edmonds. Large dorsal fin, no obvious blow, and apparent small size. May be a different whale than the one seen nearby by others.

Josh Adams

Wed, Nov 6 - Puget Sound

13:35 - Just saw what I think is a humpback? midchannel near Apple Cove. Definitely a baleen but really far from where I am [unable] to give a definitive type. 

Alice Thuy Talbot

Tue, Nov 5 - Puget Sound

14:45 - Last observed meandering around Possession Point itself. From Stamm Overlook.

14:27- Large Baleen whale sighted Whidbey side of Possession Point.

Justin Goslin 

Sun, Nov 3 - Deception Pass

15:29 - Gray whale under Deception Pass Bridge. Going west. [no confirmed gray whale reports in the area, so leaving possibility of another species -RH].

Rebecca Payne Yauchzee

Wed, Nov 6 - Puget Sound

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Lita Hiraldo

Date of Sighting: November 06, 2024

Time: 12:02 PM

Species seen: Dolphin or harbor porpoise probably

Number of animals seen: 3

Where seen: Bachmann Park Bremerton

Direction of travel : Moving slowly inland

Behaviors observed: Seemed to be hunting, two seals in front of them jumping out of the water

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Hard to be sure if they were dolphins or orcas since we only saw finds and one spout

Photos available?: No

Sun, Nov 3 - Admiralty Inlet

08:08 - I’m at Point No Point across the water there is a lot of big splashing by Whidbey. Looks like they’re headed south. They were too far away for me to see but the splashes were huge.

Debbie Simpson [PSWS]

Fri, Nov 1 - Puget Sound

13:25 - Seeing lots of surface activity mid channel from Dash Point pier. Black and white jumping out of the water. Only a few though. Maybe a different group?

Chris Gan