June 29th - The T46B1s and T124A2s just outside of Nanaimo!

Beautiful weather and two beautiful pods of whales just outside of Nanaimo!

Our boat encountered two pods of Bigg’s orca, the T46B1s and the T124A2s. The T46B1s include the infamous “white whale”, named T46B1B or “Tl’uk”, who was born in 2018. This young male is supposed to have a condition called leucisim which results in a partial loss of pigmentation. Since 2018 we’ve noticed him develop more black pigmentation on his rostrum and face.

These photos captured by marine naturalist Rebeka Pirker show the striking contrast of Tl’uk compared to the rest of his family members. He still has many scars along his back which can be seen clearly using a telephoto lens or binoculars.

Both matriarchs of these pods are relatively young and successful mothers of two. T124A2 “Elkugu” was born in 2001 and has two successful offspring, T124A2A “Agafia” and T12A2B “Litton”. T46B1 “Tread” is a mother born in 2003 and has two successful offspring, T46B1A “Tsakani” and T46B1B “Tl’uk”.

After spending some quality time with these beautiful whales we found a majestic bald eagle perched on a rock. Watching it take off and soar above the boat with its 2m wingspan never fails to impress!

We also stopped along the Gabriola Island bluffs to visit with nesting cormorants. The nests are full of busy parents taking care of their young - so fascinating to watch!

We are running daily tours at 1pm now so come on over to Nanaimo and adventure with us!