August 4th - Strike, Heather and Calf playing in the Strait

Kula headed out into calm conditions and were treated to not one, not two, but three humpback whales! The first whale was identified by its fluke as “Strike” (KEX0045). Strike has a mostly dark grey fluke but the white marks are unique enough that we were able to identify it using Keta Coastal Conservation’s public catalogue. Keta is a non-profit that works to document and protect the “humpback comeback” that we are fortunate enough to experience in the Salish Sea.

After spending some time with Strike, the boat encountered humpback whales Heather (BCY0160) and her new calf. Heather is quite famous in our waters and is considered one of our “regulars”. We were so happy to see her come back with a calf this year!

We also stopped to see harbour seals and found a couple of young pups that are extra fuzzy and cute. And lastly we stopped to visit with some stellar sea lions on a bifurcation buoy near Gabriola Island. These ladies loved posing for the camera! Here are some of the best photos taken during the tour by marine naturalist Ryan Uslu.

Jilann LechnerAugust 11, 2020Comment