WHALES: First orca visit of spring

11:23 AM: While sun lovers might be sad about the gray sky – here’s a side benefit: It’s easier to see the black fins of orcas slicing through gray water than it is to see them in blue water on a sunny day. And if you can break away, or have a window with a bay view, you can look for some right now: Kersti Muul texted to report, “Large group of transients (10+) just entered Elliott Bay proper, north end, Seattle side, southbound.” Let us know if you see them!

11:33 AM: See Kersti’s update in the comment section below.

Kersti Muul March 20, 2024 (11:30 am)

They are now approaching the Bainbridge to Seattle ferry Lanes. Southbound mid channel 1130

KM March 20, 2024 (1:29 pm)

I always wonder why these Orca sighting posts rarely include photos? Would love to see them!

WSB March 20, 2024 (1:33 pm)

Often Kersti shares word of whales, here and on her alert list, when they’re just arriving in or approaching the area, way before photos are available. But when we receive photos from her or anyone in the community, we add them. Sometimes that’s not until hours later, though. Like Jamie Kinney’s video here:
https://westseattleblog.com/2024/03/whales-orcas-in-elliott-bay-6/
Al King March 20, 2024 (1:59 pm)

KM. It’s hard getting whales (or any other sea creature, or bird) to pose for a photo. It requires a camera or phone pointed in the right place at the right time.

Carson March 20, 2024 (1:47 pm)

Follow Kersti on Instagram as well, it’s easier to access via the app than WSB at times (can we crowdfund a WSB app?)

WSB March 20, 2024 (4:58 pm)

Hi, thanks for the offer, we could always use more $ but I’d spend it on more reporting help, not an app. Hopefully you’re already aware you can put a shortcut to our website on your phone screen … TR
- Carson March 21, 2024 (8:46 am)
  
  I have short cut of course, an app would be so much easier (for me, and a pain for you, I get it!)

Mary Ayres March 20, 2024 (2:00 pm)

How does one get on the alert list? Thanks.

Kersti Muul March 20, 2024 (10:10 pm)

Here is the link to the app, it’s a free texting alert – In real time. It’s volunteer run, we do it so people can see wildlife and learn how to respectfully live with them in the spaces we share. I have almost 5000 people signed up, so there are 5 groups to manage to keep it free for everyone (as what’s app caps out at 1025 users) I do also post on IG. APP:

https://chat.whatsapp.com/EYOjC5FEN1ICEOoKWttRQS

https://www.instagram.com/kersti_wildurbanity?igsh=Ynp5emwzenY5dzBm