ORCAS: Whales back in nearby waters

| West Seattle news | Whales

Southbound orcas were reported off Bainbridge Island, says Kersti Muul, so they may be in view from west-facing West Seattle shores. Let us know if you see them!

Kersti Elisabeth Muul October 7, 2022 (11:49 am)

We have whale soup today.Transients are currently heading south down Colvos passage.Unidentified ones still North BainbridgeAnd presumed residents in Edmonds. NOAA is heading out so we will get it figured out soon!

Donna, The Whale Trail October 7, 2022 (11:55 am)

Per Orca Network, there are two groups of orcas in the Sound. A group of Bigg’s (transient) orcas is in Colvos Passage (west side of Vashon) heading north.

A larger group of orcas, perhaps southern residents, was near Edmonds about twenty minutes ago – direction not clear.

The southern residents return to the central Sound October through February, following chum salmon runs. We’ll be at Whale Trail sites with binoculars to share when they head back this way. Hope to see you there!

WSB October 7, 2022 (12:11 pm)

Thanks for the updates!

Kersti Elisabeth Muul October 7, 2022 (2:15 pm)

Lots of orca (j pod) in North Puget Sound. East of Point No Point …. Big breaching!

Kersti Elisabeth Muul October 7, 2022 (2:33 pm)

If you missed signing up for my text alert system for the orcas (and other interesting wildlife if I determine that it can be ethically viewed) here is a link to the overflow group as the main group is capped out at 513. Lots of room in this group still.https://chat.whatsapp.com/HGBsLuyjQCuIMnlLbm4kiE This is Jpod’s third time in the sound. Coho runs are good right now, I have seen a lot of good sized ones. Residents can come down (as they have last few years) as early as September to forage for Coho. 50 streams are closed on the peninsula due to drought and low water levels. Salmon cannot get in. We need rain.

https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/fishing-most-coastal-rivers-and-tributaries-salmon-and-all-game-fish-close-beginning-oct-8

Kersti Elisabeth Muul October 7, 2022 (3:55 pm)

Lots of foraging in possession triangle

Kersti Elisabeth Muul October 7, 2022 (8:00 pm)

Looks like the link got gummed up with an extra word so here it is:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/HGBsLuyjQCuIMnlLbm4kiE

Dev Bell October 8, 2022 (1:26 pm)

I was on my 37 Nordic Tug heading to Elliot Bay Marina when I realized I was almost in the middle of the pod. Slowed the boat down and enjoyed the family . . Took lots of pictures. Wonderful surprise 😮