One of the symbols of the northwest coast, the killer whale. While traveling south in Chatham Strait we came across a group of 35 to 40 killer whales, heading north along the shore of Baranof Island. These were the fish-eating "resident" killer whales, groups of which can be found traversing the coast primarily in the summer months, searching for salmon and other fish. This largest member of the dolphin family, typically reaching lengths of 20-25 feet, live in stable "pods" of related individuals. In fact, the "resident" killer whales have a unique social organization, with neither males nor females dispersing from their family group. The group today appeared to be made up of two separate "pods" traveling together, at least one of which is regularly found further south, off the northeast coast of Vancouver Island and in northern British Columbia. While traveling, the group was spread out over a mile or more, with small sub-groups of 3-6 whales together, all likely in acoustic contact with the other sub-groups. For the first time on our trip salmon were seen leaping at the surface, evidence for why these whales were in the area. All at once the travel stopped and the feeding began.
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 07 Jun 2001
From the Sea Bird in Alaska, 6/7/2001, National Geographic Sea Bird
- Aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird
- Alaska
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