October 22, 2023

As members of J, K & L Pods headed north in Admiralty Inlet. Taken from the shore of Bush Point.

photo by Hongming Zheng, October 13, 2023

SUMMARY

Sightings through October 18 include:

Southern Residents - On October 13, Js, Ks, and some Ls spent the morning in Puget Sound before heading north out Admiralty Inlet in the late afternoon.

On October 14, Js, Ks and some Ls were off Tsawwassen.

On October 17, Js, Ks, and some Ls were southbound in the Strait of Georgia.

On October 18, Js, Ks, and some Ls made their way down Rosario Strait before heading west, spending some time off the west side of SJI.

Bigg's Killer Whales - On October 13, T109A2s were in central Puget Sound. T99s & T137s were in Saratoga Passage. Likely T37A, T37A2, & T37A4 seen in Holmes Harbor.

On October 14, T37As, T99s, & T137s were in Admiralty Inlet. T109A2s were in Puget Sound. 

On October 15, T99s were in Port Susan. T137s were in south Puget Sound. T109A2s spotted in central Puget Sound. Likely T37As roaming around Possession Sound. 

On October 16, T137s were in south/central Puget Sound. T99s were in Possession Sound & Holmes Harbor. T109A2s were in Puget Sound.

In next report: On October 19, T99s & T109A2s were in Possession Sound.

On October 20, orcas spotted in Possession Sound.

On October 21, T99s spotted in Puget Sound. T109A2s made their way north in Admiralty Inlet. T36, T36Bs, T37s, T34s, T37As were in the San Juans.

On October 22, T99s & T109A2s spent the day milling in Puget Sound. Orcas spotted near Bremerton just before dark.

Humpbacks - The humpback who has been hanging off the west side of San Juan Island was ID'd as HW-MN0510589 - the 2022 calf of BCY0876 Scissorhands. BCZ0492 Meqe also spotted in the San Juans.

Gray Whales - No reports.

EVENTS:

AUCTION NOW LIVE!

https://airauctioneer.com/orca-network-online-auction-2023

Don’t miss Orca Network’s online auction this October! 100% of the proceeds from this auction will go directly to Orca Network programs, which are dedicated to raising awareness about the whales of the Pacific Northwest, and the importance of providing them with healthy and safe habitats. Orca Network programs include the Central Puget Sound Marine Mammal Stranding Network, the Whale Sighting Network, Langley Whale Center, Retire Lolita/Toki’s Legacy, and our Education and Advocacy.

Enjoy this opportunity to support Orca Network’s programs while winning incredible items and experiences. Thanks to our wonderful supporters, we have an amazing selection of over 100 items up for grabs, including unique artwork, exciting experiences, and much more! Whether you're looking for a special gift or want to treat yourself, there's something for everyone through this representation of our community’s passion for the marine mammals of the region. Spread the word, invite your friends, and let's make a splash together!

Stay tuned for more information and a preview of the items up for auction. We'll be sharing the auction page link soon!

Remember, every bid counts! Together, we will make a positive difference for the future of the Salish Sea ecosystem and all who inhabit it.

The Auction will start on October 14 at 10:00am PDT to October 27 at 6:00pm PDT

Orca Network is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and for 22 years we have been working for the conservation and protection of marine mammals in our region. We thank all supporters and contributors for offering such generous items and volunteer hours.

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Salmon Ceremonies for Tokitae

Please join Coast Salish elders Rosie Cayou James and Bill Bailey for a series of salmon ceremonies to honor Tokitae, who died at Miami Seaquarium on August 18th. Previous ceremonies took place in Coupeville and Anacortes, and were heartfelt, emotional and healing. Rosie and Bill request that you wear black and white, dress warmly, and bring some cedar to place in the water if you wish.

October 28th 09:30 - 11:00 - Orcas Island near the ferry terminal overlooking Cayou Channel.

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Stay tuned for an announcement about a final ceremony at Lime Kiln Point State Park on November 12th to honor Tokitae and Ken Balcomb.

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Everett WA Screening of Nez Perce Film: Covenant of the Salmon People

Tuesday, October 24 · 6 - 7:30PM

Everett Public Library, 2702 Hoyt Avenue, Everett, WA, USA

Covenant of the Salmon People is the story of and by the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce), the salmon people, showing how to envision and create rivers plentiful with salmon again. The time elapsed since the 1804 Lewis and Clark expedition is a minute fraction of the 16,500-year presence of the Nimiipuu people in the Northwest. During that short time the salmon that had always been plentiful began declining toward extinction.

This essential story of salmon and the salmon’s people has meaning and purpose reaching far beyond its Snake River origins. Join their vision at this showing and discussion of salmon, dams, and the Covenant of the Salmon People.

Screening is free! Reserve your spot here.

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New webshop item: Whale Sighting Alerts Subscription 

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

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

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

Wed, Oct 18 - Rosario Strait/Strait of Juan de Fuca (Js, Ks, and some Ls)

10-18-23 J-Pod, Haro Strait SJI

17:40 - 18:00, Viewing from just north of Pile Point, a large male plus 2 others separately milling off of Pile Point, trending up-island. At 17:55 the 3 near Pile Point were moving quickly up island and I noticed another group 2 miles offshore heading east, inbound, straight in to the island. 

18:10 - 18:26, Viewing from 1.2 miles south of Landbank, 12-14 orcas were spread out traveling quickly up-island/north. It was hard to count or determine distance from shore because it was dark, some as close as 1/3 (?) mile and some 1 mile off shore. J19 was in the lead followed by J41 and her daughter J58. J44 Moby paused in his travels seeming to rest, then flipped over on his back with a big upside down fluke lob then a pectoral wave before continuing on his way. Hi Moby! I see ya'! Those were the only four I was able to ID. Photographed from shore.

Michelline Halliday, SJI

J58 Crescent

J44 Moby

photos & IDs by Michelline Halliday, October 18, 2023

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Sally Reeve

Date of Sighting: October 18, 2023

Time: 2:37 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 7

Where seen: Lopez Island south of Flint Beach

Direction of travel : To west and heading out into Straits

Behaviors observed: Traveling, mulling

If orcas, any males?: 1

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

Tue, Oct 17 - Strait of Georgia (Js, Ks, and some Ls)

16:10 - Jpod coming down to southeast slowly like this map [approx. 49.228661, -123.847218]. 

Kumiko Hawkes, Gabriola Island 

[Gabriola Island Whale Sightings]

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My whale sighting report on October 17th. J, K, L pods. 

IDs confirmed as, J16, J42, J27, J31, J35, J40, J45, J26, K35, K37, K22, K12, K20, K33, K43, L72, L86, L103, L106, L125, L123, 

All pictures were photographed by me from the shore of Gabriola Island. 

First I’d like to appreciate all the people who kindly provided me with information.

Also thank you very much for managing this group, Alex. I’ve said these words before, but once again… my sightings didn’t happen only because of me. They happened because of the huge community of individuals who love these majestic sea mammals. They’ve spent their time tracking them, sharing directions and trying their best to share their huge love of the orcas, in all kinds of the weather. How precious and fortunate I am to be a part of this network! Also I’d like to show my appreciation to Brendon Bissonnette. I take advantage of his kindness and ask him to check out a bunch of my SRKW pictures every time I see them. It takes me such a LONG time for identification, but he always identifies the whales magically quick! When I saw them in the distance approximately 2.5km away from the shore with my binoculars, they seemed like they were heading straight east. After a while, they changed their mind. I saw them coming to Forwood Channel! I’m sorry everyone. There aren’t many action pictures. I usually focus on photographing the different orcas, as many as possible in the limited time they pass in front of me. Trying to take all their pictures is like an exciting whack-a-mole game. It wasn’t great weather, but I’m glad that other people enjoyed watching them too. Some people seemed like they were seeing SRKWs for the first time. They were quite impressed with the number of orcas. They were literally everywhere in the channel!

Keiko Hawkes

ID credit Brendon Bissonnette

photos by Kumiko Hawkes, October 17, 2023

Sat, Oct 14 - Strait of Georgia

Off Coal Docks, Tsawwassen per Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute.

Fri, Oct 13 - Admiralty Inlet (Js, Ks, and some Ls)

Superpod made an epic close pass of Bush Point today, what an awesome evening! Most of these shots are from Bush Point, though some are from Lagoon Point/Double Bluff! Link to more photos here.

photos by Hongming Zheng, October 13, 2023

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J19 Shachi, L103 Lapis, & L109 Takoda

IDs by Melisa Pinnow

J27 Blackberry, J56 Tofino, & J31Tsuchi

Such an amazing treat to see members of J, K and L pods traveling north along west Whidbey Island - and CLOSE in at Bush Point. I started to see them south of and at Bush Point, then South Lagoon Point, North Lagoon Point, and ultimately from Fort Casey as they exited Admiralty in the fading light. So good to see so many whales even though they were spread out. A reminder of common occurrences in years past. 

photos by Jill Hein, October 13, 2023

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K45 Prosper

In my family, Friday the 13th is a lucky day, and oh my goodness, do I ever feel lucky! I first went to Shore Meadows (Whidbey Island, south of Bush Point) and waited very patiently for most of the Residents (50+!) to make their way to me. Finally, they started appearing, though much closer to Point No Point and Hansville. They then started angling east toward us, and we could see a lot of activity and they started grouping up, and slowly traveling by, still angling east. We all then went to Bush Point, and began to see them in the distance, with Mount Tahoma (Rainier) looming in the mist. Closer and closer, and WOW!!! many of them came within maybe 20-30' of shore, in fairly small groups, still active, with breaching, tail slapping, looked like some foraging - just as we were about to head to Lagoon Point, another group came by very close! Everyone there was just full of joy to see them! We then went to the north side of Lagoon Point, where they came by fairly close, and continued north in the fading, but beautiful evening light. Words cannot express the joy, amazement and wonderful feelings amongst us all. 

photos by Bonnie Gretz, October 13, 2023

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J38 Cookie & L110 Midnight

Friday 13th - lucky for some. J, K and at least some members of L pod overwhelmed ardent whale watchers with their commanding presence as they passed Bush Point northbound offering a spectacular and never-to-be-forgotten parade of explosive, percussive behaviors. Breaches, spy-hops, backflips, inverted tail lobs, pectoral fins, so much social interaction and dynamic energy, the sound of their exhalations resonating across the water. If anyone needed a reminder as to why we need to stay focused on ensuring the survival of this endangered species, this was it! (All photos taken from shore).

photos by Sandy Pollard, October 13, 2023

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photos by RJ Snowberger, October 13, 2023

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K20 Spock

Yesterday [10/13] was what dreams are made of. The Southern Residents made a beautiful and eventful pass close to the shores of Bush Point as they made their way north up Admiralty, leaving everyone watching in awe.

photos by Donna George, October 13, 2023

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J, K, some of L Pod passing Shore Meadows. Link to FB video.

Rose Caitlin

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J38 Cookie

Pure magic at Bush Point earlier. This was only a small amount of whales that passed by us!

Link to video.

photo by Rachel Haight, October 13, 2023

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Started my morning at the Edmonds fishing pier looking for whales - did not expect the Southern Residents, members of J, K and L present! Over forty whales at least! They were mid channel.

photos by Janine Harles, October 13, 2023

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From Bush Point public access - thanks to the fellow chasers for the fun company hanging out for a couple of hours waiting. Fun day all around.

photos by J.J. Newman, October 13, 2023

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I managed to catch that first close breach through my binoculars!

photo by Rachel Ward, October 13, 2023

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I am going through my footage and here are the IDs I could get of the three groups that passed close off the point:

Group 1: K42, K43?, K16, L55? and others (I am not totally sure because the lighting made the saddles hard to see.

Group 2: J38, L83? L110, others.

Group 3: J27, J31, J56, K22, K33.

From the close pass off Bush Point earlier.

Tamara Kelley

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Not sure if the family is on here but I accidentally got this sweet picture of a mom and her two kids with some orcas from Bush Point.

photo by Taylor Bobo, October 13, 2023

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I watched one of the groups from Point No Point - loved the ID reports and all the amazing pictures from Whidbey side! I took some photos, of course much too far away for ID but loved watching the whales move about up north and make their way west!

photo by Deanna Deery-Schmitt, October 13, 2023

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23:57 - The last blows I heard were at 23:57. Not enough of a time span for three pods of SRKWS. Estimating ten to fourteen orcas.

23:50 - Many orca blows, traveling up island/north, one mile south of Landbank.

Michelline Halliday [WSSJI]

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18:25 - Audible chatty SRKWs on Port Townsend hydrophone.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

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18:05 - Approaching Port Townsend ferry lanes east of midchannel.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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17:03 - Still hanging out off Lagoon Point.

Christina Wheat

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17:00 - I can hear them on the Port Townsend hydrophone.

Rebecca Berger

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16:54 - Faint calls on Port Townsend hydrophone.

Orca Network

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16:45 - 16:58 - Fifteen to twenty orca between Lagoon Point and Admiralty Head. Jumping, milling and moving slowly north.

photo by Bill Setter, October 13, 2023

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16:41 - Southern Resident vocals starting on the Port Townsend hydrophone as Js, Ks, and some of Ls head north out of Admiralty Inlet.

Orca Behavior Institute

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16:36 - Viewing from Lagoon Point now.

Leah Jacobsen

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16:20 - Leaders approaching south Lagoon Point, east of mid channel, surface active, northbound at a leisurely pace.

Brittany Noelle

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16:00 - Trailers had passed Bush Point boat launch northbound Whidbey side of channel.

Marilyn Armbruster

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15:56 - At South Whidbey State Park - I think it’s the beginning of the about seventy orca coming through! Seeing big males.

Rose Caitlin

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15:40 - Bush Point.

photos by Rebecca Hadley, October 13, 2023

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15:50 - I have to leave. Trailers now past Bush Point. Leaders about 30? minutes ahead.

15:39 - More coming close to shore!

15:30 - Most incredible Bush Point pass I've ever seen. So many breaches, whales everywhere, Cookie close in. And I got a lot on video! Unreal. Northbound, spread midchannel to Whidbey shore, some spread south to north.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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15:30 - The Scotts at Bush Point called to report they are seeing at least six to seven orcas passing by the point. 

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Kathleen DePew

Date of Sighting: October 13, 2023

Time: 3:23 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 15

Where seen: Bush Point, Whidbey Island

Direction of travel : North

Behaviors observed: Breaching, traveling

If orcas, any males?: At least 2

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: My second encounter and by far by largest. Brought tears to my eyes

Photos available?:

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15:10 - Sara McDougal called to report orcas very close to Whidbey side out from Adams Road. Seeing at least twenty including many males, females and young. They are traveling north toward Bush Point, moving fairly rapidly and breaching, playing, etc. 

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15:05 - Last few just passed Shore Meadow - headed north towards Vista and then Bush Point.

Rebecca Hadley

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15:00 - Trailers passed Shore Meadows. VERY close to Whidbey.

Hongming Zheng

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14:40 - 15:25 - The fun began around 14:40 on the bluff just over a mile south of Bush Point, when I saw groups of fins far off to the south, toward Seattle. J pod, K pod, and many L pod members proceeded north steadily, with occasional breaches, tail lobs, inverted (upside down) tail lobs, pec slaps, spyhops, etc. They were close to the Whidbey side, which is highly unusual, they are usually out in the middle, three to four miles away, but this time they were well within a mile from shore. About 15:25 I went to the Bush Point lighthouse and found 25-30 happy observers, with all eyes and cameras trained on the procession often coming within quarter mile of shore. As others will attest, this was one of the most incredible close looks at one of the largest assemblages of Southern Resident orcas that this observer has ever seen.

photo by Howard Garrett, October 13, 2023

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14:51 - Many lined up east to west, just breathtaking seeing soooo many and all the breaches!!

14:35 - Continuing northbound mid Mutiny Bay, midchannel or Whidbey side of. Large loose group, lots of breaches, tail slaps, pec slaps, etc.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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15:10 - Sound/looks like the last of them passed me at one mile south of Bush Point, CLOSE in. Could hear them under the bluff.

14:29 - Watching from Orca Network home office, in a big group between Skunk Bay and us, about one mile south of Bush Point, moving very slowly, pec slaps, milling back and forth, hopefully foraging. SO sweet to see them all, though I'm not making much progress on the grant I'm supposed to be writing!

Susan Berta, Orca Network

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14:00 - A whole bunch of whales west of mid channel from Shore Meadows still northbound active.

Bonnie Gretz

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13:45 - Many many whales trending northwest while spread out and foraging. North of Hansville, west of Useless Bay. They look committed to Admiralty.

13:28 - Multiple fins foraging, spread out and heading all directions east of Point No Point, south of green traffic buoy.

Howard Garrett, Orca Network

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13:27 - A few passing behind the green buoy west of Shore Meadows. Northbound. A few others way in the distance still near Point No Point.

Bonnie Gretz

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13:25 - Some passing area of Double Bluff, plenty trailing, midchannel, still slow northbound.

12:50 - Was viewing from Sunlight Beach, whales continued northbound, spread.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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12:59 - Very distant fin in line with Point No Point. Viewing from Shore Meadows - can't judge direction.

Bonnie Gretz

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13:11 - Long down times at least four to six of them.

12:58 - Some mid channel, closer to east side, southbound off Point no Point

Sarah B Desai

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12:44 - They are heading north towards Admiralty.

12:34 - They look to be heading towards me at Double Bluff but still a ways out.

Tyan Schreck

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12:31 - Leaders I see are just approaching Double Bluff. Some are much closer to the west side now.

Jim Pasola

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12:20 - Appear to be on the move again, northbound, maybe some west trend? Hard to say from this perspective. Large spread between leaders and trailers. Spread in groups for the most part.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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12:00 - Saw them northeast from Norwegian Point, Hansville, close to Whidbey side. Got a not great photo thru binoculars.

Lila Borealis

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12:00 - See them from Double Bluff, super far out, heading west.

Tyan Schreck

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12:00 - Pushed west off Whidbey, some trend north. Looks like several foraging.

11:50 - Many have stalled off Maxwelton. Lots of directional changes.

11:37 - Close enough to hear their blows.

11:35 - Took awhile to get here so not sure if trailers or leaders, but lots of whales northbound past Maxwelton. Not super close, but closest I've seen them here.

11:13 - Some slowed, milling and pushed in even closer to Whidbey. Closest I've ever seen them here. Still general trend north.

11:10 - From Scatchet Head, whole lot of whales streamed by, northbound into Admiralty. Most seemed on Whidbey side. Lots of breaches. At one point it was whales slight spread surfacing what felt like everywhere. So lovely to see. Trailers are nearly out of my view here.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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11:10 - The lead group that I see is almost to the yellow buoy, Whidbey side of mid-channel. Small groups scattered behind moving in the same northwest direction.

Jim Pasola

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11:00 - Trailers of the group are leaving my line of sight so I think they’re all north of here now [approx. 47.894543, -122.454501]. So fun to watch. Pretty active with the breaching, spyhops and tail slaps along the way.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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10:52 - A group from my 10:15 post is changing directions and headed back towards Possession Point. I believe this is the frisky L pod, there is lots of breaching and tail slapping.

Brooke Thompson

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10:55 - Viewing from Scatchet Head, Rs still headed northbound towards Admiralty. Whidbey side, not super close, but can see without binos.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

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10:55 - Hard to tell because I’m at Sunset Ave, but I saw at least three and they looked like males with large dorsals. It looks like they are milling about that area still.

10:50 - Just spotted another group off Double Bluff headed east.

Brooke Thompson

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10:50 - There is a group to the west of Cultus Bay approaching Scatchet Head, look to be close to the Whidbey shore.

10:41 - Relocated to Point No Point from here I'm looking at whales on the horizon from Haines Wharf to almost Possession Point appear to be heading this way.

Jim Pasola

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10:31 - Found another group heading north here. Fifteen plus at least two large males; these guys more grouped together [approx. 47.855465, -122.457788]. Are all the residents out there? I lost count there’s so many. If I had to guess I would say there’s like 50+!

10:25 - Large group heading north here at least fifteen plus including at least three large males. Northbound [approx. 47.869621, -122.467978]. 

10:24 - Three large males all heading up towards Admiralty.

10:19 - Large group of ten plus spread out at least two large males I think.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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10:18 - Heading north [approx. 47.902287, -122.423574]. Could see at least three dorsals.

Brianna Schroeder

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10:16 - Some look committed to west side of Whidbey, Admiralty. Northbound.

Alice Thuy Talbot

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10:15 - Viewing from Eglon at least four with two big bulls have moved into Admiralty to the west of Possession Point.

Jim Pasola

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10:15 - They have picked up speed quick and flipped direction back west and am seeing lots of activity.

Brooke Thompson

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10:11 - Just spotted them directly out from Haines Wharf!

Diana Pham

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09:58 - Trending north/northeast.

09:54 - Still generally in this area [approx. 47.866353, -122.375920], lots of breaching.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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09:50 - Viewing from Sunset Ave and they are breaching and being very active, looking to be milling about with a slow northeast direction.

Brooke Thompson

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09:47 - Was barely able to see breeches through binoculars from Elgon.

Brianna Schroeder

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09:46 - Seeing breaches north of the diving beach from the ferry holding line on the dock! From here seems pretty directly south of Possession Beach.

Lila Borealis

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09:29 - Ls and others still of dive park. Very social with breaches and mating behavior. Aiming northeast.

09:21 - L105 in amongst the very playful, frisky group.

09:17 - Looks like mix including Ks and some Ls. Pink sea snake making an appearance in a large playful group off the Edmonds dive park.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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09:15 - Near the ferry dock in Edmonds. I saw them walking with my friend. It was the coolest thing. Right up there with seeing the Northern Lights. SO amazing.

Ruth Brick

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Large number of orcas this morning mid channel west of the Edmonds oil dock, multiple males several groupings of females slowly moving north. Swimming amongst recreational salmon fishermen's boats of which I was one. Appeared to be hunting and it looked like a kill just south of the Edmonds marina, large splashes in a small area.

Barry Hollander

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09:02 - J pod! Northbound by fishing pier Edmonds.

Janine Harles

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08:50 - Multiple breaches south of Possession Bar. Too slender to be Bigg's.

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

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08:45 - Two groups one northwest bound way west of midchannel, other group breaching in northbound lanes.

08:35 - They are on the move! Northbound, between fishing pier and Apple Tree mid channel.

08:26 - They were almost to the pier and veered off more mid channel now, possibly on a kill. Male, female and young one.

Janine Harles

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08:05 - Donna Sanders, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 08:07 to report: SALISH Captain reports 8 Orca in the NB traffic lanes near EDM milling about.

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07:50 - Three orcas north of oil docks at Edmonds. Traveling northbound, males and females. 

photo by Logan Baker, October 13, 2023

Mon, Oct 16 - Possession Sound/Holmes Harbor (T99s)

T99B Holly

T99B Holly

17:50 - We are towards the end of Holmes Harbor and just had two to four orcas in here, super close up. They started heading out of the harbor towards Baby Island direction.

photos by Chelsea Willis, October 16, 2023

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T99C Barakat

09:15 - Orcas from the morning ferry! Heading south towards Mukliteo. Not sure if more than this one, conditions not ideal for viewing. 

photo by Lori Christopher, October 16, 2023

Mon, Oct 16 - Puget Sound (T109A2s)

13:02 - Spotted from the Des Moines marina - approaching KVI. Steadily headed north.

Marcie Evans

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12:51 - Last seen trending in a north-north easterly direction from north end of Point Robinson Beach moving more offshore with long downtimes.

12:42 - Still at the north end of Point Robinson Beach, with directional changes, may be moving more east just a bit. [Hunting?] Looked like it, they were chasing a seal near the beach earlier, and may have been on something else out there, as well. We did see the seal live to see another day though!

12:31 - Ridiculously super close pass to Point Robinson shores, slow northbound travel loosely grouped, some hunting behaviors, T109A2s, all five of them.

12:19 - Milling with directional changes but trending north close in south end of Point Robinson Beach.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

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12:15 - Milling off the southern part of Point Robinson. Seem to be lazily trending northeast, still on the Vashon side.

11:56 - Viewing from Point Robinson. Seeing fins to the southwest. Look to be milling close to Vashon.

Ellen Weir

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10:20 - Orcas eastbound [south end of Maury Island - approx. 47.338152, -122.466574].

April Basham

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09:45 - Orcas off of Owens Beach, milling in Dalco Passage.

Brittany Noelle

Mon, Oct 16 - South/Central Puget Sound (T137s)

18:17 - They were heading north in Colvos.

Brooke Casanova

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18:08 - They appear to be heading northbound towards the Colvos.

17:36 - From Owen Beach they appear to be milling off the tip of Point Defiance.

April Basham

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17:33 - Viewing from Owen Beach. Pod is making direction changes off of Point Defiance. Seeing four fins.

Candace Gavin

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17:29 - Seeing blows from Dune toward Gig Harbor might be headed up Colvos northbound not sure yet.

Robyn Riley

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T137B Tempest & T137A Jack

17:09 - Confirmed T137’s, all four present. Northbound, slow. One and a half miles south of Gig Harbor - [viewed from] R/V WDFW 572 [approx. 47.307977, -122.543803].

photo by Kwasi Addae, October 16, 2023

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16:45 - Saw blows midchannel. Three to four blows at a time, heading northeast in channel. One large male fin [approx. 47.289289, -122.539505].

Jolena Tagg

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They were milling with a large concentration of birds then picked up to a leisurely speed towards Colvos. Viewed for quite a while from Gig Harbor old ferry dock. Mid channel then towards Colvos northbound.

T.L. Stokes

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16:15 - Five orcas with one large male in group close to Gig Harbor side. Still moving north, north one mile from Narrows Bridge.

16:04 - Orcas in the Narrows moving north. They were north of the bridge close in on Gig Harbor side. 

Susan White

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14:50 - One male killer whale, southbound, one mile southeast of Fox Point (Fox island) approaching Toliva Shoal - [from] R/V WDFW 572.

Kwasi Addae

Sun, Oct 15 - Port Susan (T99s)

15:27 - T99s still loosely grouped, sometimes bit more of a gap, but then tighten up again. Slow slow steady southbound travels continue. Surface sequences about same, as are down times. Map is general location [approx. 48.116458, -122.370974] south of McKees Beach now. Several harbor porpoise swimming about inshore of them relaxedly. Research boat was out here and left about 15:20.

15:00 - T99s continue slow sleepy southbound travels, still loosely grouped. Five to eight minute down times, two to three minute surface intervals. Just slightly south of due west of Kayak Point east side channel.

14:40 - T99s grouped out from Kayak Point Park (currently closed due to construction) continuing southbound travels east side of channel, but still well offshore. Someone spyhopped. From friend's place.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

-

frame grabs by Florian Graner, October 15, 2023

FRAME GRABS: UNDER NOAA/NMFS Permit 26599

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14:15 - They are across from Country Club Beach 2, closer to the mainland. Currently heading southbound.

photos by Charvet Drucker, October 15, 2023

-

13:10 - Update northbound direction T99s [approx. 48.154487, -122.379151].

12:45 - T99 pod made a kill right after we spotted them. They are milling on the meal right now [approx. 48.141843, -122.373569].

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

-

12:00 - Spotted them from Tillicum but they are hugging the mainland, very hard to see from Camano. Northbound approaching McKees. Also, the humpback took off down south, possibly out of Port Susan.

Charvet Drucker

-

11:26 - I am at Spee Bi Dah watched a group of possibly five orcas go past the point on south end of Tulare. They were headed north.

11:10 - Almost to Tulare.

Jack Callaghan

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11:00 - PS Chat reports they're off Tulalip Shores still headed northbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

11:01 - Just sighted near Tulalip Shores.

10:37 - Northbound into Port Susan, close to mainland [approx. 48.056871, -122.307548].

10:00 - Three to four orcas including one male, and possibly one young one, northbound, see position on map [approx. 48.016438, -122.283147], thanks Alice Moyal!

Lori Christopher

Sun, Oct 15 - Possession Sound (Likely T37As)

15:22 - Saw one [orca] pop up next to ferry from Clinton to Mukilteo about five minutes ago [~15:17]! Couldn’t tell between north and south really, it was facing northwest headed towards Clinton along the ferry route. Looked up from our parked car to see it take a breath and then keep going!

Savanna R Nagorski 

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Sarah Denham

Date of Sighting: October 15, 2023

Time: 9:06 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Lighthouse Park

Direction of travel : South

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

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Gretchen Garland

Date of Sighting: October 15, 2023

Time: 9:03 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Off Mukilteo lighthouse

Direction of travel : South

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

Sun, Oct 15 - Puget Sound (T109A2s)

Got the opportunity to see the T109A2 pod near Olalla this morning!

photos by Matthew Onita, October 15, 2023

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13:50 - Turned back in a southbound direction near the Vashon ferry terminal.

Shannon Barrios Stander

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13:49 - Heading up east side of Blake Island, moving fast now. Seem to be crossing the channel maybe - moving steady north east, almost straight north of the Vashon dock.

Jessica Medina

-

13:41 - Heading northeast between Blake Island and north Vashon ferry dock.

Stace Gordon

-

13:38 - Heading toward Blake Island from Southworth.

photo by Teresa Rosenberg, October 15, 2023

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13:35 - At the Southworth ferry dock. Very close to shore. 

Stace Gordon

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Youngest members of the T109A2 family: T109A2D & T109A2C

T109A2A Seekah on right

IDs by Rachel Haight, Orca Network

13:20 - Very close to shore on Kitsap side northbound now approaching Southworth ferry terminal.

photos by Tim Ferris, October 15, 2023

-

13:11 - Passing Driftwood Cove now. Kitsap side. Northbound.

Kristi King

-

12:50 - Passed Ollala about 30 minutes ago.

photo by Matthew Erlich, October 15, 2023

-

12:41 - Passing Fragaria northbound, close to Kitsap side.

Collin Carnahan

-

T109A2s

12:22 - Passing Anderson Point.

12:11 - Passing Prospect Point.

photos by Amanda Herberger, October 15, 2023

-

12:21 - Finally caught a glimpse from Lisabeula to the north. Very, very close to mainland side, northbound.

Ellen Weir

-

12:10 - A fun pass by Ollala with plenty of tail slaps and one breach! Continuing northbound, playfully.

Mollie Segall

-

12:04 - Mid channel off of Olalla heading steadily north now.

11:39 - Can see them heading north from Point Richmond along the beach, mainland side (binos from Olalla).

Wendy Huntington Spaulding

-

11:24 - Cruising with some speed northbound super close to the beach - so close it looks like they’ll go on the sand. Right at Point Richmond right now. Still lots of activity. “Breach at the beach” we’ve called it! The pod splits into two groups and then comes together.

Jasmine Myers

-

11:15 - Still hanging in the same area around Point Richmond.

Megan Lynn

-

10:35 - Lots of tail flapping - looks like four plus whales - at least two big and two smaller whales.

10:27 - Spotted at least two near the small fishing boats on Gig Harbor side at mouth of Colvos.

Jasmine Myers

-

10:20 - Tons of tail slapping and breaching! Still hugging Vashon, circling in about the same spot.

10:12 - Appear to be hunting and circling. Haven’t made any movement one way or the other. Lots of birds above, right by Spring Beach, Vashon.

10:05 - Spotted mouth of Colvos [approx. 47.337765, -122.529865], Vashon side, from Sunrise Beach Park Gig Harbor.

Anika Blake

-

10:02 - Caught sight of them central southern end of Colvos a few minutes ago.

Natalie Elle

-

Family photo with the mountain.

photo by Ryan Dicks, October 15, 2023

-

09:26 - Viewing from a bluff Gig Harbor side with binoculars and spotted them where the pin is dropped [approx. 47.331616, -122.558433].

Anika Blake

-

07:55 - Pod [orcas] just passed through about 7:55: we are staying in a cabin near the Tahlequah ferry dock [south Vashon] and they were headed towards Gig Harbor. Unsure what direction they went.

Dawn Reynolds

Sun, Oct 15 - South Puget Sound (T137s)

T137A Jack

Sunday started with Jack (T137s) inspecting the wildlife around Cutts Island. A calm morning where you could hear and feel each breath. The other three made a quick trip to Purdy & back. Near Minter they reunited and enjoyed a beautiful fall day along Carr Inlet. Sensing their presence several pods of porpoises stayed close to shore. Sometimes when we go out and watch we get long distance triangles. Yet at the end of the day it’s just as magical as a day with breaches & cartwheels. Thank you Jennifer Swenson for sharing your sighting this morning and helping some others have their first orca experience.

photos by Jason Cook, October 15, 2023

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13:12 - Went around the corner [west along southeast side of McNeil Island] out of my view.

12:57 - Hanging out now on the south end of McNeil, looks like four in the group?

12:45 - Approaching south end of McNeil, visible from Fox Island.

Laura Kozar Batanian

-

12:44 - They have reached the tip of McNeil at the end of Carr Inlet. No direction confirmed as of yet.

12:34 - From Fox Island. They are passing Gertrude Island on the McNeil side still slowly southbound in Carr Inlet.

April Basham

-

10:53 - Still southbound in Carr viewing from Bella Bella Beach Fox Island.

Jason Cook

-

10:36 - Group is heading south toward Fox Island.

Trevor Reeves

-

09:54 - Just south of North Bay headed southbound.

Bijan Dietz

-

09:11 - Trending northbound towards Purdy.

08:48 - Hunting on the shores of Cutts Island. Viewing from Kopachuck.

Jason Cook

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: David Paly

Date of Sighting: October 15, 2023

Time: 7:52 PM

Species seen: three orca, one male

Number of animals seen: 3

Where seen: Cutts Island Henderson Bay

Direction of travel : N

Behaviors observed: Tails slapping, jumping

If orcas, any males?: 4 ft

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

-

07:45 - Orcas, at least three spotted in Carr Inlet, moving slowly northbound towards Kopachuck right now, roughly mid channel - what a fabulous sight to wake up to! There was one large male in the group and at least two others that I can confirm! Could hear but not see them as they passed Cutts Island.

Jennifer Swenson 

Sat, Oct 14 - Central Puget Sound (T109A2s)

17:31 - All five are here.

April Basham

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17:14 - Pod is approaching the north Vashon ferry dock. Currently eastbound. No confirmation of which way they will go.

Candace Gavin

-

16:44 - Approaching Southworth fast.

Karen Davis

-

16:36 - From a private location. From Peter Point the orcas are currently still northbound headed towards Southworth midchannel.

April Basham

-

16:35 - Nearing Fern Cove.

Karen Davis

-

16:13 - Moving FAST heading towards Fern Cove.

Megan O'Connell

-

15:57 - Confirmed sighting of T pod with baby, met a photographer who captured beautiful pics! We are still here waiting for them to come closer [viewing from Anderson Point].

Patoomma Krueger

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15:53 - They passed Prospect Point, they keep flipping but when I left, slowly northbound.

Hongming Zheng

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15:45 - All four are northbound as seen from Ollala.

Mollie Segall

-

15:39 - We just got to Lisabeula Park and they flipped back northbound. Four together and one more trailing. They are pretty far to the north of here.

Anton Kleparek

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15:38 - At least one out from Ollala.

Mollie Segall

-

15:36 - Two orcas near Olalla Market northbound.

Catherine Alvarado Soto

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Cascadia Region Whale Sighting

Orca Sighting:

Sighting Time: Sat Oct 14 15:34:23 PDT

Sighting User Reported Location (Lat/Lon): 47.40565,-122.52192 [off Lisebuela, Vashon] 

Number Sighted: 4

Submitter Name: Jody

Whale Alert App 

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15:02 - Anderson Point there’s [a] pod going south bound through the channel. About four of them hugging the island.

Patoomma Krueger

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14:53 - Watching with binoculars from Driftwood Cove. Appear about even with Fragaria, closer to Vashon side.

Roxane Jackson Johnson

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14:50 - Almost level with Fragaria though close to Vashon side, but then turned. Heading south again.

Karen Webb Martin

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T109A2A Seekah

14:36 - [T109A2A] The orca surfaced right next to our boat, we immediately switched off the engine and the depth sounder. The orca hung around the boat for about 55 minutes, circling the boat, swimming under, etc. We also heard some vocalizing. It seems like he may have moved off. We just saw an orca about half mile away, but not sure it's the same one.

screen grab from video by Alex Meyer, October 14, 2023

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14:17 - Orca Network received a call from Alex who was boating in Commencement Bay when a juvenile orca surfaced nearby. They shut off their engine and the orca spent time swimming around. Smaller size for orca, maybe 16 feet. Orca goes down for a while then comes up next to the boat swims around, then goes off then surfaces again 100 feet from them then then dives under their boat. They can hear the orca vocalizing. Alex was calling to get guidance on how and when to safely start up their motor and depart. Alex sent images that Rachel Haight ID'd as T109A2A Seekah who apparently is spending time away from the family who headed up Colvos. This is a near repeat of yesterday and Seekah met back up with them last night. All is well now that we know who the ID of this solo adventuring youngster. Presumably family and Seekah will meet back up.

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14:25 - Passing Olalla in Colvos northbound, still closer to Vashon side. They were milling a bit, but now trending faster north. Research boat behind.

Amanda Herberger

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14:05 - Beautiful close pass off of Lisabuela Beach, loud and lovely breaths breaking the ooos, and ahhh on the beach, hugging Island shores, slow travel north mostly grouped up, leisure pace, Soundwatch on scene, fun spunky antics by little ones a little south of there, T109A2s. After having a second to glance through photos: 109A2A not present or did not see with family during pass.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

-

13:43 - Approching Lisabeula Park.

Breanne Denise Ward

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13:13 - Northbound in Colvos, Vashon side [approx. 47.366622, -122.530053].

Brian McGinn

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13:00 - [T109A2A] Donna Sanders, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 13:03 to report: CHETZEMOKA Captain reports 1 Orca whale heading east near TALEQUAH dock.  

-

12:45 - Orcas off on southwest corner of Vashon out from old docks. Whale watching boat is there.

Vicki Flood

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12:39 - Between Vashon and white boat, close to Vashon shore. Viewing from tip of Dune Peninsula.

Jen Jen

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12:18 - Passing west across the mouth of Dalco Passage, possibly heading toward Gig Harbor rather than going up into Colvos.

Caro Lew

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12:14 - At the mouth of Colvos, hard to say in the fog but it does look like they are going north and mid channel of Colvos.

Mollie Segall

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12:07 - Trending west now toward Dalco Passage, super close to Vashon shore still.

Caro Lew

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11:56 - Stalled close to Vashon shore, lots of surface activity with tail slaps. Still viewing out from Owen Beach proper.

11:49 - Out from Owen Beach, closer to Vashon side and milling near the white boat.

Mollie Segall

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11:46 - Still off Owen going all directions now, mid channel or closer to Vashon. Spyhop. 

11:37 - Still off Owen mid channel heading east. Looks like a baby in tow!

Caro Lew

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11:36 - In Dalco mid channel. Eastbound towards Commencement.

Ed Rickert

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11:32 - Pod off Owens now. Back and forth.

Rich Kuras

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11:31 - Direction changes in Dalco, mid channel. Slow traveling.

Brooke Casanova

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11:30 - Mid channel of Dalco getting lost in fog, milling.

11:29 - Last seen eastbound toward Owen from the point trending to Vashon side.

Robyn Riley

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11:24 - Incredible hunting behavior and close pass at the point, eastbound and hunting right off Owen Beach, thought I saw four to five at one point. Link to video.

photo by Brooke Casanova, October 14, 2023

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11:23 - Northbound past seal area toward Owen.

Robyn Riley

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11:10 - Viewing from Gig Harbor. Heading north to Point Defiance any second.

Shannon Joosten Schlecht

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11:00 - Still milling around the entrance to the Narrows with no direction off of Point Defiance. 

Stace Gordon

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10:39 - Milling here. Three or four. Possible baby with them [approx. 47.314115, -122.554076].

Brianna Schroeder

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10:44 - Hunting on Gig Harbor side. Viewing from northwest tip of Point Defiance.

Jason Cook

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09:59 - Off the eastern tip of Point Defiance now a ways out, circling around.

Claire Howard

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Claire Howard

Date of Sighting: October 14, 2023

Time: 9:40 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 3

Where seen: 47.336963,-122.564224

Direction of travel : Same time as yesterday...again headed east, coming from Colvos Passage headed towards the Narrows Bridge. But mid channel rather than on shore.

Behaviors observed: They're hunting right now between Vashon and Point Defiance

If orcas, any males?: No

Any unusual markings?:

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

Photos available?: No

Sat, Oct 14 - Admiralty Inlet (T37As, T99s, T137s)

16:11 - Marie Waterman, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 16:23 to report: 1611 hrs MV SPOKANE Captain reports via 800MHz one (1) orca SB in the SB Traffic lanes just off KING. MV SALISH Captain reports they saw five (5).

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16:00 - They are at a good clip, too - past tank farm.

15:58 - Big male leading, female now, another… counting at least four, line of sight Edmonds ferry terminal and south to marina/dog park area southbound shipping lanes. One male just appeared a little closer.

15:52 - Here they are straight out from Apple Tree Point southbound steady.

Donna Green Van Renselaar

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15:20 - They split into two groups. One is southeast bound towards Possession Bank. The other is southbound along the Kitsap shoreline.

Brian McGinn

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photo by Donna Green Van Renselaar, October 14, 2023

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15:16 - Big group visible from Eglon southbound.

photo by Thomas Buell Jr., October 14, 2023

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15:02 - They were moving fast! Well south of Point No Point. Based on PSE boat, they are headed southeast.

Sarah B Desai

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14:40 - We found them again. Southbound just northeast of Point No Point.

Brian McGinn

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14:30 - Pod of four off Point No Point. Mid channel southbound.

Sarah B Desai

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13:27 - Looks like the 137s 37As and 99s [approx. 47.965811, -122.624165]. 

13:01 - Think we saw 37A4 here too.

12:53 - Definitely the 137s and I think the 99s but I'm not sure.

12:33 - Orcas just south of Marrowstone now. Headed south.

Trevor Tillman

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11:50 - Video shows eight orcas headed southbound in Admiralty Inlet, off Marrowstone Island, closer to Marrowstone Island.

Jaci Paneque [PSWS]

Fri, Oct 13 - Holmes Harbor/Saratoga Passage (Likely T37A, T37A2, T37A4)

18:04 - Two orcas mile and a half north of Hidden Beach Whidbey side heading south.

Aaron Gill

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17:27 - A small pod of orcas heading south towards Race Lagoon off Whidbey in Saratoga Passage.

Randy Zimmerman Furnas

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13:43 - At Onamac. So far can only confirm one more mid channel now.

13:35 - Saw one orca [T37A] heading north just south of Onamac Camano side.

photo by Aaron Gill, October 13, 2023

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11:45 - Three orcas in Holmes Harbor, on the east side of the harbor heading north. Just happened to look when they surfaced a few times and then either haven't come back up or are out of my view due to trees. It was so fast that we didn't have a chance to look long enough to identify them. They were along the east side, north of the golf course but south of Baby Island. I'm not sure what that area is called [approx. 48.044051, -122.524609].

Cindi Bowen

Fri, Oct 13 - Saratoga Passage (T99s & T137s)

T99C Barakat & T137A Jack

frame grabs by Florian Graner, October 13, 2023

FRAME GRABS: UNDER NOAA/NMFS Permit 26599

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17:53 - I think I saw them the same time as Shelly, someone in a kayak had a great view I can hear them all the way over here on Whidbey.

photo by Aaron Gill, October 13, 2023

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17:50 - Watching from Manaco Beach, three moving steadily southbound Camano side.

back of camera photo by Shelly Greybeck, October 13, 2023

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16:58 - Continuing south at a pretty steady pace. Seem to be about mid channel, possibly closer to the Whidbey side. Hard to tell from my perspective.

16:36 - Just spotted them from the yacht club on Camano. Heading southwest mid-channel.

Charvet Drucker

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16:00 - T99C and T137A spent about a half hour pulling down crab pot lines and floats under the water about where my mark is [approx. 48.265140, -122.558358] while the other pod members swam away to the southwest. 

14:40 - After a lot of milling around and playing with crab pot lines/buoys the T99s and T137s have turned back around to go southeast again from my last map spot.

14:00 - Northbound T99s T137s [approx. 48.291925, -122.508456].

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

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13:38 - Seeing orcas from Maple Grove boat launch. Northeast bound.

Linda Aitkins

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12:36 - To the south of Camano Yacht Club. PSE, research vessel, and IE5 are on scene. Mid channel still northbound. Might be pushing towards Whidbey. Unsure yet.

11:44 - Northbound travel at Cama Beach. Definitely Camano side. Research vessel on scene.

Kat Martin

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11:45 - They met in Elger Bay and made a kill. Now both pods are northbound [off Cama State Park]. These are the T99s and T137s. The T137 pod came from the south and the T99s came from the north.

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

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From Camano State Park. Lots of jumping! We watched the large pod of orcas going north by Camano State Park for about 20 minutes. At least ten, one large male out front and maybe another at the back not as large. They were spread out, jumping and breaching and making a lot of noise so we figured they were hunting. Very close to Camano shore so we got a good show. Link to FB video.

Thomas McKane

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11:25 - Moving north of Camano State Park. [T99s & T137s] Orca pod swam by us northbound. The sound of their blows first alerted us.

photo by Coni Jones Carrothers, October 13, 2023

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11:30 - [T99s & T137s] Northbound passed Camano Island State Park very fast.

11:07 - [T99s & T137s] At least seven orcas now southbound out from Mabana.

11:00 - [T99s & T137s] Viewing from Camano State Park. At least four orcas in Elger Bay. Not able to tell direction of travel.

Linda Aitkins

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10:20 - [T99s] Off Camano State Park still heading south.

Aaron Gill

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10:15 - [T137s] CWW is reporting several orcas also heading north by Summerland.

Jennifer Feldman Spanton

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10:04 - [T99s] Half mile north of Cama Beach heading south right off Camano.

photo by Aaron Gill, October 13, 2023

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09:35 - [T99s] Three orcas off Onamac just now, heading towards the [Camano Island] State Park [southbound].

Marianne Crawford [CWW]

Fri, Oct 13 - Puget Sound (T109A2s)

T109A2D & T109A2C

T109A2 Fuser

Fall is better with the T109A’s. From Point Defiance Park. 

photos by Jason Cook, October 13, 2023

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T109A2 transient family in Colvos Passage. Link to video.

photos by April Basham, October 13, 2023

-

17:33 - Just passed us nearing the north tip of Vashon, very close in to Vashon shores trending leisurely northeasterly grouped up.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

-

16:46 - Mid channel, approaching Peter Point.

Roxane Jackson Johnson

-

16:27 - Vashon side between Fragaria and Command Point, headed northbound.

Collin Carnahan

-

16:26 - Crossing over to Kitsap side, mid channel. Fragaria, still south of Peter Point.

Roxane Jackson Johnson

-

16:00 - Northbound Colvos across Anderson Point, hugging close on Vashon side.

Yvonne Welty

-

15:38 - Now picking up speed, north past Lisabuela.

15:25 - Starting to see them from Lisabuela, still heading north.

Margaret Nichols

-

15:17 - Steady northbound. Close to Vashon shore. North of Point Richmond.

14:56 - Big breaches next to Vashon shore. Across and a bit south of Point Richmond.

Stace Gordon

-

14:30 - Looks like they picked up pace and are northbound into Colvos.

Candace Gavin

-

14:03 - Viewing from Gig Harbor. The orcas are very close to Vashon shore on the southwest tip. 

Shannon Joosten Schlecht

-

14:00 - Lots of breaches. Tacoma in the background.

photo by Ryan Dicks, October 13, 2023

-

14:00 - Colvos very close to Vashon shore now. 

Stace Gordon

-

13:41 - Seeing orcas south of Owen Beach. Using spotting scope. 

Vince Meehan

-

13:31 - Breaching at mouth of Dalco and Colvos.

Yvonne Welty

-

13:33 - Milling mid channel across from Sea Cliff sub division. Continue to be very active with lots of breaching All the south end of Colvos Passage.

13:25 - Now in Colvos Passage. Milling with a lot of surface antics.

13:18 - Four backflips in a row.

Stace Gordon

-

13:16 - Possibly may have stalled at the entrance on a kill Vashon side.

13:13 - Looks like this group has committed northbound slowly in the Colvos Passage.

April Basham

-

13:12 - Moving north into Colvos. Mid channel.

Stace Gordon

-

13:08 - Now off the southwest tip of Vashon, not quite committed to Dalco passage by the looks of it.

12:53 - Currently at the mouth of Dalco Passage milling, lots of directional changes and minimal surfacing.

Brooke Casanova

-

T109A2A Seekah

T109A2B Macoah, T109A2C, T109A2D, T109A2 Fuser

IDs by Rachel Haight, Orca Network

12:50 - Four transient orcas from Point Defiance/Owen Beach looking towards Sunrise Beach. I was told they are the T109A2s.

photos by Heather Roskelley, October 13, 2023

-

12:52 - Now generally moving up towards Colvos Passage.

12:37 - Milling off of Point Defiance. No direction.

Stace Gordon

-

12:49 - Committed around the point, heading towards Owen Beach from Point Defiance.

12:33 - Still milling with surface activity just north of Salmon Beach.

Mollie Segall

-

12:20 - The lone orca [likely T109A2A] in Commencement has made its way back out to Point Defiance, the remainder [rest of T109A2s] are still hunting in North Narrows off the point, mid channel.

David Michael

-

11:58 - Northbound in Tacoma Narrows slowly approaching Point Defiance. They’ve been stalling and milling rather than travel mode.

Zeno Martin

-

11:40 - They appear to be hunting and there is a lot of bird activity around them. North Narrows.

11:33 - They were heading toward the bridge and then flipped. Heading north near the red marker on the Gig Harbor side in the Narrows.

Heather Maher

-

11:13 - I see orcas in Tacoma Narrows southbound. Approaching Point Evans. Near Gig Harbor shore.

Zeno Martin

-

11:09 - Still headed towards the Narrows, very close to Gig Harbor side across from Salmon Beach about fifteen minutes ago.

Amy Gibbs Fagan

-

10:41 - Orca [likely T109A2A split off from family] spotted in Commencement Bay heading towards Thea Foss waterway.

Lubna Marie Makda

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Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Claire Howard

Date of Sighting: October 13, 2023

Time: 9:55 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 4

Where seen: 47.336963,-122.564224

Direction of travel : East, coming from colvos passage headed towards the narrows bridge

Behaviors observed: Traveling fairly quickly

If orcas, any males?: I think females

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: They were very close to shore, one coming up for air within 30 feet or so from the beach, maybe less.

Photos available?: No

Thu, Oct 12 - Puget Sound (T109A2s)

18:15 - Orcas left Alki shore and went into Elliott Bay.

photo by Robin Sinner, October 12, 2023

Thu, Oct 12 - Saratoga Passage (T137s)

frame grabs by Florian Graner, October 12, 2023

FRAME GRABS: UNDER NOAA/NMFS Permit 26599

Sun, Sep 17 - Puget Sound (T37A3, T37A4, T137A, T137D)

Jack/T137A.

photo by Oakwyn Hollow, September 17, 2023

Fri, Oct 13 - Haro Strait

20:50 - 21:45 - Hearing intermittent orca blows just a few hundred yards to the south/down-island, at most two to three individuals milling, listening from one mile south of Landbank. The last blow I heard was at 21:45, so whomever it was turned back down island. Transients perhaps.

Michelline Halliday [WSSJI]

Tue, Oct 17 - Haro Strait (HW-MN0510589)

10-17-23 "The Little Humpback", Haro Strait SJI

07:30 - 08:44, A small humpback, known locally as the Little Humpback, has been frequenting the west side of SJI for a couple weeks. This morning s/he was doing loops along a mile stretch of shoreline. First seen heading down island at 07:30 near Edwards Point and then heading up island at 08:00, then again heading back down island close to shore at 08:30 and back up island at 08:44. This humpback has the quietest exhalation I've ever heard from a humpback, just a soft sigh to let me know of their presence. Thank you for the lovely morning little one and keep safe in your travels. Photographed from shore.

Michelline Halliday, SJI

HW-MN0510589

photos by Michelline Halliday, October 17, 2023

Sun, Oct 15 - Strait of Juan de Fuca

12:56 - Five Humpbacks reported ~ 2.5-3 miles due south of Victoria Harbor, BC.

[WA app report]

Sun, Oct 15 - Haro Strait (HW-MN0510589)

08:30 - Our little humpback friend is off Land Bank Westside Preserve. Hanging out between middle and north pullout close to shore.

Cindy Hansen, Orca Network [WSSJI] 

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It’s the 2022 calf of Scissorhands - Per Erin Johns Gless: “Scott Veirs and Fred Horn deserve the credit for this sleuthing! Scott submitted a screenshot from a video Fred posted to Happywhale and got a match. I'm not sure if this whale has a BC number yet, but the Happywhale ID is HW-MN0510589.”

Sun, Oct 15 - Port Susan

I call this series so close, yet SO far. Lots of action in Port Susan today with a humpback and orcas (T99s), showing a variety of behaviors. All of them hugged the mainland side all day so it was tough to get decent photos.

photos by Charvet Drucker, October 15, 2023

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12:00 - The humpback took off down south, possibly out of Port Susan.

Charvet Drucker

Sat, Oct 14 - Griffin Bay (BCZ0492 Meqe)

16:10 - Almost to Cattle Pass. BCZ0492 Meqe.

15:55 - Humpback whale in Griffin Bay heading south towards Cattle Pass.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

Sat, Oct 14 - Haro Strait

09:01 - Humpback just passed Lime Kiln southbound. Some "surfacing sounds" on the hydrophone.

Fred Horn [WSSJI] 

Sat, Oct 14 - Port Susan

photo by Thomas McKane, October 14, 2023

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09:56 - Still hanging around Country Club Beach 2. Definitely feeding, lots of directional changes each time it comes up!

08:50 - We have a humpback here in Port Susan off of Country Club Beach 2. Midchannel and currently southbound.

Charvet Drucker 

Fri, Oct 13 - Haro Strait

14:48 - Now milling just off County Park.

James Richardson

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13:53 - A humpback near Lime Kiln Park and it was breaching. Multiple direction changes so it may be milling in that area. 

Barbara Howitt [WSSJI]

Thu, Oct 12 - Haro Strait

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Christine Moritz (visiting from Colorado; now in Bellingham)

Message: My husband and I watched a humpback from San Juan Island County Park on Thursday, October 12 at around 15:00 for at least 20 minutes. It was not very active at first, but then started tail lobbing -- and did that for quite a while. I have a decent video of about 20 tail slaps, that I would be happy to share if you want it.

photo by Christine Moritz, October 12, 2023

Sun, Sep 17 - Puget Sound (CRC20243)

Humpback CRC-20243.

photo by Oakwyn Hollow, September 17, 2023

Sun, Oct 15 - Puget Sound

16:34 - Large humpback (or maybe minke?) surfaced slowly then sounded, headed southeast [approx. 47.728285, -122.449533 - west of midchannel just north of Carkeek]. Sorry, shallow dive. Didn’t see the fluke.

Ben Blankenship TowBoatUS

Sun, Oct 15 - South Puget Sound

07:30 - Scott thinks he saw a dolphin this morning coming north out of Eld Inlet. Super flat cam water. It was moving FAST!! It had a dorsal fin. Could hear it loudly surface/blow about a dozen times in a surfacing series and left a large footprint. No photo. Jessie [Cascadia Research] knows.

Kim Merriman