May 21, 2024

A member of J Pod spyhops in Active Pass. Photo taken from the shore of Galiano Island.

photo by Karoline Cullen, May 17, 2024

SUMMARY

Sightings through May 18 include:

Southern Residents - On May 13, J Pod was spotted in the Strait of Georgia.

On May 17, J Pod spent the morning off the west side of San Juan Island eventually making their way north and heading through Active Pass.

Bigg's Killer Whales - On May 13, T90s & T124As were in the San Juans. T65A3 & T65A5 were in North Puget Sound - they met up with the T99s in the afternoon after the T99s spent the day heading north in Puget Sound. T46Bs were in Discovery Bay. T2Cs were in Discovery Passage, BC.

On May 14, T19, T19B & T49As (minus T49A1 & T49A2) spotted in Rosario Strait. T65A3 & T65A5 were seen in Liberty Bay. T99s were spotted in Port Susan.

On May 15, T65A3 & T65A5 made their way to south Puget Sound. T99s visited Port Susan. T124As were in the San Juans.

On May 16, T99s were in Holmes Harbor and made their way to Penn Cove. T65A3 & T65A5 were in South Puget Sound. T19, T19B, T49As (minus T49A1 & T49A2), & T101s were in the San Juans. T124As were also spotted in the San Juans.

On May 17, T99s visited Holmes Harbor & Penn Cove again. T65A3 & T65A5 were in Central Puget Sound. T124As were in Moresby Passage. T49A1 headed south in Haro Strait.

On May 18, T99s hunted a sea lion in lower Saratoga Passage. T65A3 & T65A5 visited Dyes Inlet.

In next report: On May 19, T99s were in Central Puget Sound. Presume T65A3 & T65A5 were spotted in Hood Canal. T124As made a close pass along the west side of San Juan Island.

On May 20, T99s exited Admiralty Inlet and made their way west in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Presume T65A3 & T65A5 again spotted in Hood Canal.

On May 21, T124As seen in the San Juans.

Humpbacks - Humpback spotted in Puget Sound!

Gray Whales - Sightings continue to wind down. CRC2259, CRC2362 Thidwick, & CRC2557 still keeping a presence in inland Puget Sound.

EVENTS:

Date: Saturday, May 25th

Time: 11:00 AM

Location: Langley Whale Center

105 Anthes Ave, Langley, WA

Dive into a magical world of stories and imagination at the Langley Whale Center's Story Time with Sage! Join us next Saturday for an enchanting journey through tales of the natural world and its fascinating inhabitants.Bring your little ones for a morning of storytelling and discovery. Let's create memories together and let our imaginations soar! Don't miss out on this magical experience! See you there!

Webshop item: Whale Sighting Alerts Subscription 

Orca Network's Whale Sighting Network and Education Project is now offering our whale sightings phone/text alerts by annual subscription. 

Cost is $25.00 every 12 months. If finances is a hardship please email alisa@orcanetwork.org.  

Real-time, or near real-time, call/text alerts create opportunities for people to connect with and observe the whales in their natural habitat from shorelines and other platforms around the Salish Sea. And for those who wish to contribute to Community Science you can report your sightings to our Whale Sighting Network team who vets, records, and disperses collected data to researchers, scientists, agencies, educators, public, etc. 

Fri, May 17 - Haro Strait/Active Pass (J Pod)

The wind was howling & the waves were crashing while Jpod transited through Active Pass into the Strait of Georgia. Link to FB reel.

Salish Sea Orca Squad

-

On a blustery May 17 evening, members of Jpod zipped eastward through Active Pass. A syphop, a couple of tail slaps and they were past us. Photos taken from the shore of Galiano Island, BC.

photos by Karoline Cullen, May 17, 2024

-

video by Gary Cullen, May 17, 2024

-

05-17-24 J Pod, Haro Strait

I was able to piece together J-Pod's location before I saw them by speaking to neighbors. They were observed traveling north/up-island at around 06:30 just north of Pile Point. At 08:25 they were seen traveling quickly south/down-island 1 mile south of Landbank.

09:53 - 10:06, Viewing from 1 mile south of Landbank, J Pod quickly traveling north/ up-island. J27 Blackberry and J47 Notch were close in and easy to ID, followed by J39 Mako and J44 Moby. J40 Suttles was with J37 Hy'Shqa and her young daughter J59 Sxwyeqόlh. J41 Eclipse with J58 Crescent. As they approached Edwards Point they began to breach and became very surface active as they moved out of sight.

10:28 - 10:51, Viewing from Lime Kiln. J-Pod traveling to the north/up-island. the leaders had passed the lighthouse by the time I arrived. After a long time submerged, a group of 5-6 came in close to the lighthouse with 3 swimming 15 feet from the rocks just under the surface. Their bodies created a swirling abstract pattern under the waves. After they passed two of them breached. I was able to identify one as J36 Alki by her saddle patch and tentatively ID the other as J37 Hy'Shqa with help from a friend Robin Joelle Alexis Schaefer. Link to short video of the close-in double breach, video footage by Ben Bama.

11:35 - 11:45, It looks like the pod split with roughly the last half of J Pod heading south again. They were farther from shore and moving quickly. 

12:11 - 12:43, Viewing from 1.2 miles south of Landbank, Spread out with the closest individuals about a half mile from shore. The surface activity continued as it had since early morning. At 12:43 as they trailers moved south of me the group flipped and headed north/up-island again until out of sight.

14:50, Viewing from County Park, I can see distant fins heading up-island pulling away from shore to the Northwest. They were observed in Active Pass, B.C. at 18:45 that evening. All photographs from shore.

Michelline Halliday

photos by Michelline Halliday, May 17, 2024

-

photos by Lila Tyler, May 17, 2024

-

J59 Sxwyeqόlh

J45 Se-Yi'-Chn

J42 Echo

Another lovely westside shuffle day with J-Pod - here are a few photo highlights from Lime Kiln. Link to FB post with more photos.

Orca Behavior Institute

photos & IDs by Monika Wieland Shields, May 17, 2024

-

14:25 - Trailing group including members J16s, J17s, and J22s northbound off County Park now; rest of Js between Henry and Stuart northbound.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

-

14:00 - Heading almost due west now. Right in the old ferry lane to Sydney.

13:31 - J Pod southwest of Battleship Island northbound.

-

13:35 - Bulk of Js grouped up Lime Kiln northbound.

12:20 - Saw blows southbound off Edwards Point.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

-

11:19 - [J pod] Larger group still heading north.

11:12 - [J pod] A few offshore Bellevue are facing down island. Three or four at least seem to have flipped.

10:53 - J pod leaders are approaching County Park, San Juan Island northbound.

Cindy Hansen, Orca Network

-

10:38 - Trailers approaching Lime Kiln northbound.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI]

-

10:37 - J pod visible on the Lime Kiln webcam.

Orca Network

-

10:26 - Orcas on Lime Kiln webcam, northbound close to shore.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

08:11 - There was a group of about ten whales headed south off Hannah Heights this morning. A few males, a youngster and females. Every whale was breaching the whole time they passed. Rough water so I could not ID.

Sandy Buckley

Mon, May 13 - Strait of Georgia (J Pod)

Great to see Jpod tonight! They headed down the Strait of Georgia very slowly against a flood. Link to FB reel.

Salish Sea Orca Squad

Sat, May 18 - Howe Sound, BC

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Brayden Dyczkowski

Date of Sighting: May 18, 2024R

Time: 5:30 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: Porteau Cove (49.5580002, -123.2360559)

Direction of travel : E

Behaviors observed: Hunting sea lions

If orcas, any males?: No

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

Sat, May 18 - Gulf Islands, BC

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Cathy Denny

Date of Sighting: May 18, 2024

Time: 4:15 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Off Yellowpoint Lodge Ladysmith

Direction of travel : East

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: Both Large males

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?:

Sat, May 18 - Saratoga Passage (T99s)

T99s right off the Langley Marina Dock. Link to FB video. 

photos by Marilyn Armbruster, May 18, 2024

-

From Langley - they must have been in that area for at least three hours, lots of activity! [videos in FB comments].

photos by Lauren 'Lo Blakeley, May 18, 2024

-

T99E

photos by Kaarina Makowski, May 18, 2024

-

From Hidden Beach.

photo by Jill Hein, May 18, 2024

-

Link to FB videos taken from various spots in Langley.

Emily Wandres

-

19:55 - Friend reports they keep making directional changes but still by the marina. Thought they were maybe moving north, but hard to tell.

19:29 - Friend sent crazy videos, they are hunting right by boats in the Langley marina.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

19:15 - 19:30 - Big hunt off Langley Marina. Resumed southbound I think?

Marilyn Armbruster

-

18:50 - Friend reports hunting near shore, just north of Langley. Sea lion hunt.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

18:31 - They are doing circles near Whidbey side - good viewing at Langley Beach.

17:40 - Towards Whidbey side.

17:28 - Turning up towards Mabana again.

17:22 - Can see them traveling south - I’m at Langley Marina.

Lauren 'Lo Blakeley

-

17:33 - Text from friend: North of Langley - 99s directional change and stalled on a hunt -LH.

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

-

17:22 - Viewing from north side of Sandy Point. Appear to be nearing Langley from the north. Also appearing to be on the Whidbey side. Southbound.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

17:15 - Just passed my line of vision at Mabana, still southbound with WWB trailing behind.

16:53 - Southbound between Mabana on Camano Island and Whidbey. Two WWB trailing.

Linda Raines Tyner

-

16:30 - Viewing from Camano Island State Park - approaching Bells Beach - southbound.

Linda Aitkins

-

16:15 - Trending south. Just north of Baby Island mid channel.

Sam Wallace

-

16:13 - Way past Hidden Beach southward bound.

Missy Main

-

16:05 - Friend viewing from Hidden Beach says they've moved over to Camano side, still southbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:55 - View from Hidden Beach.

Lauren 'Lo Blakeley

-

15:45 - Orca is heading south about a mile north of Hidden Beach Whidbey side.

Aaron Gill

-

15:30 - T99s are southbound south of Race Lagoon close to Whidbey.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

13:53 - Heading back south.

13:52 - Still milling around Scenic Heights. Lots of breaches.

Krystin Lynn

-

13:50 - They are heading south out of City Beach Cove.

13:45 - Watching orcas from Windjammer Park now!

Dawn Mueller-DePape

-

13:39 - Long dives but they are now southbound from Oak Harbor.

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

-

13:05 - Male split off and is lagging behind, group of about three is pressing on heading out of the cove, looking like they will head north towards Oak Harbor.

12:58 - Look to be hunting just east of Monroe Landing, closer to Coupeville side now.

Amie Welden

-

Time - 12:00

Type of whale - Orcas

If orcas: any adult males (5+ foot dorsal fin)? if so how many? - I can’t tell

If orcas: open saddle patches?

Number of whales - 4 or 5

Location of whale(s) - Penn Cove near Capt Whidbey Inn, maybe 50 yards from shore

Direction of travel - Circling for about 15-20 minutes and then heading east

Speed of travel: slow, medium, fast pace Slow- Medium speed heading out

Morgan Bell Iwerks

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Jerry Merrill

Date of Sighting: May 18, 2024

Time: 11:56 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 3

Where seen: Penn Cove, NE

Direction of travel : Stationary

Behaviors observed: Hunting, milling

If orcas, any males?: Yes

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Loren Iwerks

Date of Sighting: May 18, 2024

Time: 11:45 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: West end of Penn Cove, in front of the Captain Whidbey Inn, within 60 yards of the dock

Direction of travel : Due east

Behaviors observed: milling, some breaching

If orcas, any males?: I don't know.

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

Sat, May 18 - Central Puget Sound (T65A3 & T65A5)

T65A3 Amira & T65A5 Indy

T65A3 Amira

Port Madison north side of Bainbridge Island as seen from Suquamish. Link to more photos.

photos by Michael Stephenson, May 18, 2024

-

17:50 - WSF just stopped the Edmonds ferry for "three orcas" but the only fins I saw looked more like porpoise fins. They were heading south/east, closer to Edmonds side.

Katie Puckly

-

14:05 - Milling in Port Madison. Trending east.

Lauren Ryan Booth

-

13:51 - Slow east.

13:40 - Midway between Indianola and Bainbridge. 

Brian Livingston

-

13:27 - Drove over to Suquamish dock since the orcas were still off Agate Point and snapped some photos.

12:44 - Two orcas still off Agate Point, we have seen blows, tail slaps and a breach or two. Viewing from Indianola sandspit. Staying in same location past fifteen minutes. 

photos by Deanna Deery-Schmitt, May 18, 2024

-

T65A3 Amira

13:23 - They're still on the same spot off Agate Point [video in FB comments].

13:00 - They're still off Agate Point feeding/hunting. 

photo by Catherine Alvarado Soto, May 18, 2024

-

12:44 - Currently feeding on a seal by Agate Point.

12:35 - Currently by Agate Point.

Ily Wagner

-

12:35 - Saw them just east of Indianola. Viewing from Fay Bainbridge. Now headed west.

Paul Davis

-

12:23 - Two milling off of Bainbridge, across from Suquamish. At least one male. We are viewing from Indianola.

Sophy Johnston

-

11:55 - Just got them exiting Agate Pass.

Trevor Tillman, PSE

-

08:49 - Two orcas just came through Rich Passage and are now near Point White Pier.

Allison Hatletveit

-

08:35 - At least two spotted off of Point White from the Bremerton ferry [video in FB comments].

Sarah Hoffman

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Holly Aprecio

Date of Sighting: May 18, 2024

Time: 8:26 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Right off Manchester State Park (Amir and Indy)

Direction of travel : North

Behaviors observed: Milling and hunting

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Saw from the ferry

Photos available?:

-

08:22 - Donna McCrea, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 08:26 to report: WALLA WALLA Captain reports 2 Orca near Rich Pass heading towards BREM.

Fri, May 17 - Moresby Passage, BC (T124As)

08:26 - Relaying a report of 40 orcas in Moresby Passage, BC. No direction reported. [Follow up to original report to correct it was 4 orcas (not 40). And per Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute, these were Bigg's T124As].

WA App

Fri, May 17 - Haro Strait (T49A1)

We saw Noah T049A1 in the Haro Strait this afternoon. He is a Bigg's Killer whale born in 2001. Link to FB video.

Ryan Michael

Fri, May 17 - Saratoga Passage/Holmes Harbor/Penn Cove (T99s)

T99 Bella

T99C Barakat & T99D Puck

Our T99 friends came back! I first caught up with them just south of Long Point, coming north up Saratoga Passage. They then headed north past Camano, so I thought they were done with us...but no, they swung around and came into Penn Cove. First they were on the north side, so I took a guess and headed to Long Point, hoping they'd move toward the south side… they did, right by the Coupeville wharf, where I wasn't.... but I was at Long Point as they came speeding by, so close! Little Miss T99E was porpoising all day, in front of the family, and she sped by me first, then the rest… so wonderful to see them so close! Later in the evening, as the sun was setting, they came back in the cove!

photos by Bonnie Gretz, May 17, 2024

-

T99B Holly

From today, Coupeville Wharf [video in FB comments].

photos by Tina Lowry, May 17, 2024

-

21:00 - Near Penn Cove.

T99B Holly, T99C Barakat, T99 Bella

photos by Jill Hein, May 17, 2024

-

Link to FB videos taken from Coupeville Wharf.

Emily Wandres

-

Friday, May 17 we sure had a memorable experience watching the T99 pod in a playful mood after they ate a meal near the mouth of Holmes Harbor, Whidbey Island. We watched as the family rolled around with each other at the surface for about 20 minutes before they eventually decided to continue on. The girls in the family, mom (T99 Bella), T99B (Holly) were focusing their play towards the youngest daughter, T99E, who will be 3 years old this year. The little one was getting pushed around by her mom and older sister. The two brothers, T99C (Barakat) and T99D (Puck) were also off on their own about 100 yards away rolling around with each other having some bro time. Here are a few video clips from that day taken from the MV Swiftsure, Puget Sound Express. Link to FB video.

Bart Rulon Wildlife

-

What a day [video in FB comments].

Amy Leigh Chappelle

-

Please tell me someone got photos or video of those three awesome breaches to the left of the wharf! I was over by 3 Sisters watching it, so amazing.

Hannah Axtelle

-

20:40 - After a long day of chasing 99E, it's nap time for this precious family of orcas [video in FB comments]. Grouped up logging near Rolling Hills dock, close to north shore, eastbound trend.

20:30 - Off Highway 20 curve headed east now.

20:24 - Close to Highway 20.

20:08 - Nearing mussel rafts westbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

20:07 - Well past the wharf westbound mid channel.

19:54 - Past Monroe Landing westbound mid channel from Coupeville boat ramp.

Bonnie Gretz

-

19:40 - Closer to north side, westbound into Penn Cove, still east of Monroe Landing but approaching.

19:29 - Nearing Scenic Heights, seem pretty committed for Penn Cove now. I'm relocating to Monroe Landing now. Westbound.

19:23 - Cruising west - unless they flip, on track for Penn Cove.

19:14 - Westbound off of Maylor Point.

18:40 - Continuing west along Crescent Harbor, have pushed a bit north into the harbor as they travel west. Halfway between Polnell & Maylor Points.

18:13 - Grouped up, steady travel west, nearing Polnell Point.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

18:14 - Still continuing westbound about to come up to Polnell Point (I think that’s what it’s called). Whidbey side.

Charvet Drucker

-

17:49 - They've flipped westbound, directly across from Maple Grove. Whidbey side.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

1:644 - They pushed way east towards Camano and seemingly disappeared around north end Camano.

16:05 - Arrived at Long Point to find T99E at it again, racing east in front of the family, porpoising RIGHT off the point. Another member [T99] cut the point close southeast. The other three a tad further out. Now all east of Long Point, traveling east/southeast.

15:50 - Eastbound past wharf, close to this side, Holly came in close again.

15:35 - Seem stalled out from wharf just west of now.

15:30 - Literally right next to wharf, Holly, wow. Wow wow!!!

15:16 - Back eastbound nearing Coupeville Wharf area.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:13 - Two are back at the mussel flats.

Janet Moody

-

15:12 - She was going back west - they are now further southwest closer to rafts; they're split - some in same spot as before.

15:07 - Again! T99E porpoising west, some family in pursuit. Seemed stalled on a hunt. Between Rolling Hills & 3 Sisters.

15:03 - Continuing east, out from Rolling Hills dock, drifted a little south but still more on north shores.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:00 - Leaving mussel flats… bluff side… milling about.

Janet Moody

-

14:50 - Out from 3 Sisters, now facing east, closer to north shore.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

14:50 - Have them at Penn Cove north side.

Mel Nasby

-

14:17 - We have two orca headed into Penn Cove, mid cove, headed west towards the wharf.

Janet Chaykin

-

14:20 - Now seeing them directly across from the wharf… bluff side.

14:13 - Spotted off the Coupeville Wharf (north) near the bluff on the other side of the cove.

Janet Moody

-

14:13 - Eyes on them. Headed into Penn Cove.

Mel Nasby

-

13:58 - Headed into Penn Cove on the north side.

Tyler McKeen

-

13:10 - San Juan Clipper leaving this family trending still northbound, little 99E leading. Currently in line with Madrona Beach but traveling steadily.

Alli Montgomery

-

13:05 - Viewing from Camano Island Yacht Club - orcas are straight across on the Whidbey side, northbound. They are a little south of Long Point.

Linda Aitkins

-

13:01 - They are on the Camano side of Harrington Lagoon!

Hannah Axtelle

-

13:00 - T99s stalled in front of my house, but now moving eastbound towards Camano, towards Madrona.

Jill Hein

-

13:00 - They stalled on a hunt, now moving east/northeast, away from Whidbey toward Camano. T99E is at it again, porpoising away. Out from Madrona, Camano, midchannel.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

T99 Bella

12:44 - Wow what a day usually they just zoom by my house but today I got to watch them play/feed a little bit; thanks Rachel as usual for the heads up.

photos by Aaron Gill, May 17, 2024

-

12:40 - Northbound - angling towards Penn Cove but way too early to see if they'll commit.

12:30 - This is so fun - T99E has been porpoising ahead of the family, and is far ahead. The other family members cruising to catch up and she keeps racing along. Nearing Race Lagoon, Whidbey side of midchannel.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

12:25 - Three orca heading north Whidbey side just before Onamac Point. Whale boats following.

Marie Heil

-

12:15 - They made a kill and stalled as they ate, but now they are on the move again to the north [approx. 48.154527, -122.569396]. We are leaving the scene now.

11:36 - T99 pod northbound [approx. 48.129708, -122.559647].

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

-

11:35 - Lots of activity on Hidden Beach… still moving north… closer to Whidbey side.

Janet Moody

-

11:33 - T99s northbound out from Hidden Beach, Whidbey side, steady travel, some surface activity.

11:25 - In view from Hidden Beach, south of here, Whidbey side.

11:15 - North of Wonn road northbound. I just missed them but people just saw them and let me know.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

10:50 - Heard four blows from what appeared to be a gray whale [confirmed T99s] (could not clearly identify as there were some trees obstructing a full view) about 100 feet off the Greenbank shoreline, about one mile south of Wonn Road/Greenbank Farm. Heading north.

Martha Poppy Sinclair

-

10:20 - Orcas northbound out of Holmes Harbor, viewing from Meerkerk Gardens area, Whidbey side of the channel, similar route/location to yesterday morning.

Dan Gulden

-

10:05 - Orcas leaving Holmes Harbor. Reported to WIWS by Aaron Blough. Sent a video showing at least two animals. 

Kevin Phillips

Fri, May 17 - Central Puget Sound (T65A3 & T65A5)

T65A5 Indy & T65A3 Amira

T65A5 Indy & T65A3 Amira

The Lost Boys T65A3 and A5 made a return trip to Dyes Inlet and I was able to see them for a little from the Tracyton Boat Launch. Always a treat to see these animals so close to home! Link to more photos.

photos by Eric Russell, May 17, 2024

-

20:41 - Just saw them from the ferry, headed out Rich Passage towards Seattle. Nice to see them pay Bremerton a visit again! [video in FB comments].

Taylor Parsons

-

20:34 - They milled around and hunted off Point White on Bainbridge Island for about 30 minutes and now look committed to Rich Passage.

Mike Maddox

-

20:32 - John Miller, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 20:39 to report: 2032hrs: Vessel WALLA WALLA reports via 800MHz they have slowed due to 2 orca EB in Rich Passage.

-

20:25 - They just headed into Rich Passage.

19:59 - At Illahee right now two of them staying under for long periods.

Amber N Travis Gates

-

19:44 - They seem committed to Ilahee. Long downtimes. They passed Port of Waterman just now. Trending north. 

19:25 - Towards Bachmann Park.

CT Thompson

-

19:25 - Bachmann Park [video in FB comments].

Catherine Alvarado Soto

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Shelby Halvorson

Date of Sighting: May 17, 2024

Time: 7:21 PM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen:

Where seen: 2

Direction of travel : South, steady pace

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: No

Any unusual markings?: No

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

-

19:19 - Heading towards Gorst near the Bremerton Marina.

Kailee Cserna

-

19:17 - Under the Manette Bridge now.

CT Thompson

-

19:15 - Under Manette Bridge.

Madelyn Messick

-

18:36 - A friend messaged me to say they are southbound past Tracyton. Headed back towards Bremerton.

Candace Gavin

-

18:30 - Off Tracyton Beach.

18:26 - They left Silverdale, approaching Chico/Tracyton area. 

Catherine Alvarado Soto

-

T65A5 Indy & T65A3 Amira

T65A3 Amira

16:14 - Whales are in Washington Narrows.

photos by Sue Irvin, May 17, 2024

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Stephanie Mikos

Date of Sighting: May 17, 2024

Time: 4:05 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Dyes Inlet - Kitsap

Direction of travel :

Behaviors observed: Full back, both near shore headed to silverdale

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?:

-

15:00 - We are visiting from the UK and saw two orcas swim by at the bottom of our garden in Manette by the bridge; it was amazing and something we won’t forget.

Rachael Hall [ONCG] 

-

13:25 - Ken called to report these two [Amira and Indy] are west of Blake Island heading northbound.

-

13:18 - Maija Holston, WSF Marine Ops, emailed to report: Cathlamet Master reports 2 orca NB headed for Yukon Harbor (near Blake island). 

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Emma Tirrell

Date of Sighting: May 17, 2024

Time: 12:45 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 3

Where seen: 47.5131929, -122.4701333

Direction of travel : W, moving moderate pace

Behaviors observed: Traveling

If orcas, any males?: Unknown

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Quite close to the Vashon ferry terminal initially

Photos available?: No

-

12:41 - Heading south down Colvos Passage.

12:38 - Two orca off Vashon Head Light. I work on the ferry Kittitas and we spotted them.

photo by Sean Sultan, May 17, 2024

-

T65A3 Amira

T65A5 Indy

12:38 - Continued west between Vashon and Blake Island… look to be heading northwest.

12:31 - Just switch going west from dock.

12:29 - Just passing Vashon ferry dock, still closer to Vashon Island side… Heading north.

photos by Leo Medina, May 17, 2024

-

11:05 - We see two off East Vashon Beach!

Jodi Dedon

-

10:38 - Just saw going north of KVI.

Meg Pitman

-

09:49 - Amira and Indy have cleared Point Robinson close in to shore, steady northbound but look to be pushing northeast a bit now.

09:38 - Approaching Point Robinson just south of here, northbound close in to island.

Marla Smith, Orca Network

-

08:08 - Now headed east along the south shore of Maury Island toward Piner Point. Looks like they will be heading north along the east shore of Maury Island.

07:47 - Two orcas in Quartermaster, just south of the Manzanita buoy.

John Troup

-

07:01 - Seeing them right now in the middle of Commencement Bay due north of Point Ruston heading toward Des Moines. One in particular seems very large, huge dorsal fin!

Art Nicklaus

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Jeff Robinson

Date of Sighting: May 17, 2024

Time: 6:30 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Point Defiance ferry terminal

Direction of travel : E

Behaviors observed: Travelling

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: The pair was moving slowly approximately 500' off the beach towards Tacoma. Surfaced 5 or 6 times before moving out of view. I couldn't determine male or female, fins appeared to be the same size.

Photos available?: No

-

06:25 - A couple orcas just passed Point Defiance dock and Dune Peninsula, eastbound.

Anna Panasiuk Simmons

Thu, May 16 - Strait of Juan de Fuca

17:15 - My boyfriend is in Port Angeles and reports that he just saw "three orcas in Port Angeles Bay", heading southwest, close to two anchored shipping containers, at least one large dorsal.

Jill Irene Freidberg

Thu, May 16 - San Juans (T19, T19B, T49As minus T49A1 & T49A2, T101s)

14:16 - T101s and T49As and T19+T19B. They passed the T124As coming the other way.

Ellie Sawyer, Maya’s Legacy [WSSJI] 

-

11:24 - Just watched three to four pass East Beach, Waldron Island, northbound.

Roxane Jackson Johnson [WSSJI] 

-

09:45 - More Bigg's killer whales in San Juan Channel, north of Point Caution heading north.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI] 

Thu, May 16 - San Juans (T124As)

15:45 - Round and round they go - now aiming for Cattle Pass southbound from mid Griffin Bay.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI] 

-

14:58 - By Turn Island now.

14:35 - Seeing them off the Friday Harbor Labs Shore Trail, mid channel but closer on the Shaw Island side. Slow southbound, possibly moving towards Shaw.

13:27 - Moving southbound a bit faster now, but still kinda meandering.

13:13 - T124s off Reuben Tarte, mid channel, closer to San Juan Island.

Katie Onthesalishsea [WSSJI] 

-

12:15 - Presumably these same whales, the T124As, now eastbound in Spieden Channel.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI] 

-

09:30 - 10:30 - Saw Biggs at Lime Kiln. Very active.

Kay Gordon [WSSJI] 

-

09:45 - Interesting, mostly whistles so far! Killer whales usually make whistles a lot less than discrete calls. But I agree with Bigg's based on the couple vocals I heard.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI] 

-

09:41 - I'm hearing orcas on the Lime Kiln hydrophone, sounds like Bigg's to me but I'm not positive!

Alyssa Kelley [WSSJI] 

Thu, May 16 - Saratoga Passage/Holmes Harbor (T99s)

T99D Puck

This afternoon in Holmes Harbor - the T99s, five breaches in a row by T99D Puck I believe. They were last seen northbound in Saratoga Passage near Penn Cove, around 19:00 tonight. And a beautiful sky to end the day. Link to more photos.

photos by Jill Hein, May 16, 2024

-

Ran down to Hidden Beach (Whidbey Island) and just missed the T99s as they flipped back into Holmes Harbor. Off to Rainbow Lane to catch distant looks as they meandered back and forth for quite a while, then headed deeper into Holmes Harbor. Finally got some pretty good looks as they got active a bit further into Holmes Harbor, and then the rain came in. Great to see some active whales, and lots of orca friends! T99s are T99 Bella (b. 1984), daughter T99B Holly (b. 2007), son T99C Barakat (b. 2009), son T99D Puck (b. 2015), and daughter T99E (b. 2021).

photos by Bonnie Gretz, May 16, 2024

-

T99E

T99C Barakat

T99s, Holmes Harbor, Whidbey Island. Link to more photos.

photos by Cindi Crowder Rausch, May 16, 2024

-

T99B Holly, T99 Bella, T99C Barakat, T99E

I successfully made it to Wonn Road when the whales were making their way out of the harbor. T99C and his brother T99D were having a blast playing with each other. Lots of tumbling and rolling around. Once the whales left Holmes Harbor, though, they really stepped on the gas. I would say these whales were traveling at seven knots or more for the majority of the day. Each time I went to the next viewing location, they were always right there. A few moments throughout the day, it was just me and the whales. There’s something so calming and serene about that. Like the universe is just going right. We followed these whales all the way to Penn cove, where they made a close pass at Long Point. Absolutely gorgeous, heavy wind and all. We ended the search at the Coupeville wharf where they made one final pass. The sun crept below the horizon and we called it a day. Or so I thought. On my way home, the whales popped right alongside the road! Good luck omen, I’d say. Thank you, T99, for bringing your kids around today. We needed that. Link to more photos.

photos by Kat Martin, May 16, 2024

-

T99D Puck

T99B Holly

T99s, Long Point & Holmes Harbor, Whidbey Island. Link to more photos.

photos by Rachel Haight, May 16, 2024

-

From Long Point... brrr! [video in FB comments].

April Janice Basham

-

As I was driving home from Coupeville, I passed by the north side of Penn Cove. I noticed cars on the side of the road and pulled over. BOOM! There they were! Right on the shoreline. Hugging it, even. I was only able to grab this photo. I’ve never had surprise whales on my drive home and this was spectacular.

Kat Martin

-

20:38 - Westbound past Coupeville Wharf.

20:17 - Westbound into Penn Cove west of Long Point now.

19:45 - North of Harrington Lagoon northbound, maybe angling towards Long Point.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

19:05 - Viewing from north of Race Lagoon. They’re about mid channel still. Some circling behavior. White caps making it HARD to view.

Kat Martin

-

18:50 - Still northbound in a hurry - passing Madrona on Camano, still mid-channel.

18:35 - Watching the T99's northbound - about to pass Onamac, mid-channel.

Jill Hein

-

18:30 - Long down times northbound Whidbey side nearing Race Lagoon.

17:55 - Approx. location [48.136072, -122.562322] northbound, appear in travel mode.

17:45 - Northbound passing Hidden Beach, Whidbey side.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

16:50 - Spotted at least four orca about 300 feet off the Greenbank shoreline, about one mile south of Wonn Road/Greenbank Farm. In two groups about 100 feet apart. One group was diving and tail slapping. Heading steadily north. 

Martha Poppy Sinclair

-

16:32 - Seeing them from Wonn Road. They’ve pushed in a bit west.

Kat Martin

-

16:00 - They just passed Honeymoon Bay/Lake heading out of the Harbor on the east side.

Missy Main

-

15:40 - About half mile out from Freeland Park.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

15:20 - Continuing northbound north of Holmes Harbor, some surface activity as they go, north of Holmes Harbor Golf Course.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

15:15 - Viewed from Honeymoon Bay Road; heading north.

Kristi Etzell

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Randon Pool

Date of Sighting: May 16, 2024

Time: 3:15 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 4

Where seen: Mouth of Holmes Harbor

Direction of travel : North,

Behaviors observed: Traveling, playing, breeching

If orcas, any males?: ?

Any unusual markings?: ?

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Too far away for photos.

Photos available?:

-

15:02 - Moving further north now… midd-ish channel. Approx. out as far as Holmes Harbor Golf Course. Northbound.

14:55 - Came as close as 300 - 400 feet from dock, out near the moored yellow sailboat. Now slowly trendy northbound but also milling/foraging. Not in a hurry… out about a half mile from park.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

14:55 - Just off Freeland Park [video in FB comments]. 

Missy Main

-

14:20 - They slowly, with some circling, are now headed deeper into Holmes Harbor, mid channel... lovely to see though distant.

Bonnie Gretz

-

14:40 - Deep in Holmes Harbor, trend south, some circling. Between golf course & Freeland Park.

14:08 - Moving southbound on west shore of Holmes Harbor out from Honeymoon Bay.

13:59 - They've been stalled on a hunt just north of Rainbow Lane. Trending south now in no hurry.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

13:38 - Moving south into Honeymoon Bay right now.

Florian Graner

-

12:55 - Friend reports they have flipped southbound into Holmes Harbor now south of Wonn Road.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

12:40 - Per Rachel T99s were very much continuing northbound along shore, but she had to leave. Working on getting any update if they committed one way or the other in Saratoga.

-

12:00 - Wonn Road. They were continuing northbound.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

12:00 - Still active, slow northbound, west shore, out from Wonn Road. Pretty breaches from Barakat.

11:45 - Very active, northbound, approaching Wonn Road. Close to west shore.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

11:22 - Just found the 99s in Holmes Harbor, northbound. 

Brian McGinn, PSE

Thu, May 16 - South Puget Sound (T65A3 & T65A5)

11:51 - Report the two orcas were in Balch Passage (between Anderson and McNeil) again, no direction included.

[WA app]

-

09:47 - Two orcas headed north by Thomson Cove, Anderson Island. One male and one female.

Taylor Frierson

-

08:15 - Multiple reports came in from Anderson Island that the orca came east in Balch Passage, passed the ferry, wrapped the island and headed south between Anderson and Ketron.

Belen Bilgic Schneider

Wed, May 15 - San Juans (T124As)

15:05 - These whales are now southbound from Henry Island and could be visible from the west side of San Juan Island later this afternoon if they continue in that direction.

11:00 - It's our resident transients the T124As! They are now at the south end of East Sound heading south.

10:40 - Orcas just picked up in East Sound heading south.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI] 

-

07:24 - Laurie Baker, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 08:10 to report: 0724hrs: Vessel SAMISH reports via 800MHz they've spotted two orcas heading north in Upright Channel. 

Wed, May 15 - Port Susan (T99s)

T99C Barakat & T99B Holly

T99E & T99D Puck

T99s in Port Susan this evening. Quick little pass by but always fun to see this pod! Link to more photos.

photos by Charvet Drucker, May 15, 2024

-

T99C Barakat

T99s as viewed from Puget Sound Express.

photos by Valerie Nelson, May 15, 2024

-

19:43 - They've made a right hand turn into Saratoga Passage northbound closer to Camano side.

19:49 - South side of Pebble Beach northbound.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

18:35 - Past Tyee now, continuing southbound. Looked to be resting for a bit but picked up the pace and T99E did two breaches.

Charvet Drucker

-

17:57 - T99s on a long dive now after passing Tillicum Beach, slowly southbound.

17:52 - Southbound just north of Tillicum, Camano side of Port Susan.

Serena Tierra, Orca Network

-

17:25 - Orcas, maybe four mid - Bretland slowly going south.

[PSWW chat]

-

12:00 - Friend reports Whidbey side of mid passing Sandy Point still going south east. Makeup sounds good for 99s but unconfirmed.

11:45 - Friend reports - Langley side of midchannel, southbound off of Boy & the Dog Park, slowly surfacing. Closer to Whidbey now.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

11:40 - A friend messaged they have eyes on the orcas still north of Langley across more on Camano side mid channel potentially heading southbound.

Orca Network

-

11:24 - Report of at least one orca in Saratoga Passage mid channel about one mile north of Langley and out from Summerland. NO direction. 

Doug [ WA app] 

Wed, May 15 - South Puget Sound (T65A3 & T65A5)

T65A3 Amira

Thank you to all of you who gave frequent updates! This was our first time seeing orcas.

photo by Kaira Kelley, May 15, 2024

-

Indy (T65A5) and Amira (T65A3) in Henderson Bay. Link to FB video.

Jolena Tagg

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Ingrid Shumway

Date of Sighting: May 15, 2024

Time: 8:30 PM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen:

Where seen: Henderson Bay

Direction of travel : heading south

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

T65A5 Indy & T65A3 Amira

photo by Ingrid Shumway, May 15, 2024

-

T65A3 Amira

20:20 - One last showing quarter mile south of Minter Creek on the Key Peninsula side. Headed south towards Glen Cove.

photo by Randy Witter, May 15, 2024

-

18:36 - Two orcas off of the northwest side of Raft Island in front of my home [video in FB comments].

Rick Burrows

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Amanda Burrows

Date of Sighting: May 15, 2024

Time: 6:35 PM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Raft Island WA

Direction of travel : E

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

-

17:38 - They were in Horsehead [Bay].

Michelle Baty Fortney

-

17:20 - Horsehead Bay now! Headed into the bay, just past the spit.

Elisabeth Rae Collett

-

16:57 - Just saw them from Kopachuck. They're about midway between Cutts & Kopachuck. But midchannel west of Cutts. Southbound.

David Bennett

-

16:57 - Headed south swiftly [video in FB comments].

Paul Davis

-

16:45 - Just passed Cutts Island headed leisurely south.

Randy Witter

-

15:57 - Last seen milling trending southbound. 

David Bennett

-

15:30 - Orcas in Henderson Bay Gig Harbor.

Sue Quinsey [ONCG]

-

15:28 - Seems like they might be hunting right around here [approx. 47.366022, -122.647047].

Lyndsey Carter

-

15:29 - They're heading out from Purdy, south of the boat launch midchannel. Possibly hunting.

15:23 - They're southbound mid channel last. Saw them about two minutes ago.

David Bennett

-

15:20 - Heading back south closer to the Key Peninsula side of the bay.

Billy Watson

-

15:21 - They are about halfway back out from the Purdy Bridge, doing a few surfaces and then diving.

-

15:13 - Viewing from Purdy Spit. Mid channel. Already turned back away from the end of the bay.... moving lazily.

Jolena Tagg

-

14:55 - I have eyes on them. I can see them on the east side of Henderson in Purdy. Northbound.

David Bennett

-

14:46 - There are two in Henderson Bay now, north side of Raft Island.

Kim Rich

-

14:43 - Lainey Simms called to report seeing Amira and Indy heading northbound into Henderson Bay hugging peninsula side toward Purdy. 

-

13:10 - San Juan Clipper leaving T65A3 and A5 traveling northbound deeper into Carr Inlet. Longer downtime and zigzagging surfacing [approx. 47.326018, -122.704278].

Alli Montgomery

-

13:01 - Visible from Kopachuck on the west side of the channel still heading north.

Lyndsey Carter

-

12:58 - Two went west through Hale Pass and under the Fox Island Bridge about an hour ago. My video is poor [video in FB comments].

Sarah Richardson

-

12:50 - Saw them far away from Kopachuck, on west side of the channel.

Ariel Ohashi

-

12:30 - [video in FB comments].

12:11 - They look to be heading west towards Lake Bay. Long downtimes and some back-and-forth and direction. The Clipper is about to be on the scene.

Billy Watson

-

11:53 - Committed north into Carr Inlet viewing from Tacoma Delomay Sandspit.

Jolena Tagg

-

11:47 - Continuing westward travel into Carr. Unconfirmed if they will head north or south once in Carr.

Ashley S Whitman

-

T65A5 Indy & T65A3 Amira

T65A5 Indy & T65A3 Amira

11:30 - From the Fox Island Bridge; I was so excited to finally get a bridge pass, just for them to not get even close before they dove and popped up on the other side. Still always a beautiful time with them and always fun to see them from above! Link to more photos.

photos by Jolena Tagg, May 15, 2024

-

11:14 - Visible from the Fox Island Bridge approaching Tanglewood lighthouse still headed towards the bridge.

Jami Cantrell

-

10:50 - Tail slap just now at the red marker [approx. 47.265998, -122.614482].

Mary Davis Pubols

-

10:38 - Headed up Hale Passage. In front of Wollochet Bay.

Sydney Haglund

-

10:16 - View from Titlow and can see them headed southbound.

Kitkat Whales

-

10:00 - Passing under Narrows Bridge southbound. Looked to be heading for eastside.

09:49 - Two orca southbound midchannel Tacoma Narrows, passing Salmon Beach. Looks good for Amir and Indy.

David Michael

-

09:13 - I watched it move west past south end of Vashon and towards Point Defiance before losing sight. Last sighting about 20-30 minutes ago. 

Reid Wilkes

08:35 - Sharon Allsup called to report two orca, including one adult male, passed by southbound Dash Point/Gold Beach at 08:21 and then appeared to be off Browns Point, Tacoma heading south toward into Commencement Bay (from her angle). 

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Sharon Allsup

Date of Sighting: May 15, 2024

Time: 8:21 AM

Species seen: orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: Now almost to Dash Point - East Channel, south of Gold Beach

Direction of travel : south

Behaviors observed: traveling, unhurried, one brief milling

If orcas, any males?: 1

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: 1 adult male, 1 non-sprouter - I don't know markings well enough to say it's The Brothers for sure. Should be viewable from Brown's Point now

Photos available?: No

Tue, May 14 - Strait of Juan de Fuca

There were three to four orcas off Port Williams.

Cory Sites

Tue, May 14 - Discovery Bay

14:00 - About one mile north of the entrance to Sequim Bay, on a kill, six orcas.

Christopher Hanke, PSE

-

12:51 - Orcas just passed Diamond Point, headed towards Sequim Bay. At least three females, one baby, one male. Saw one pec slap and some rolling behavior.

Janet Maple

-

12:50 - Three orcas traveling west midway between Diamond Point and Protection Island now.

John Trubiano

-

09:12 - Have you heard anything about orcas in Discovery Bay near Beckett Point? Heard of a couple sightings this morning.

Rose Madrone

Tue, May 14 - Rosario Strait (T19, T19B, T49As minus T49A1 & T49A2)

17:06 - They were barely visible heading into Thatcher.

16:13 - They’re here! Viewing from Washington Park. They’re currently in between Washington Park and Bird Rocks moving towards us so east?

Lorena Perezcarlos

-

15:27 - Orcas off of the south tip of Allan Island between Rosario Strait and Burrows Bay. It looks like they are headed north up Rosario Strait. A couple of whale watching boats are with them. [follow up]: At least three with one male and one small. It was quite distant from me.

Terri Lomax

Tue, May 14 - North Puget Sound (T99s)

T99C Barakat

T99s in Port Susan - I met up with the T99s at CC2 and had a brief closeish pass on the beach. Something that doesn’t usually happen for me! As soon as the whales went down, though, they zoomed over to mid channel and hunted rather quickly with the rest of the family. There was some celebratory action and they then made their way south. Their departure was initially slow but they bolted at full speed, porpoising, after about 25 minutes of slow surfacing. Link to more photos.

photos by Kat Martin, May 14, 2024

-

T99's in Port Susan. Breaches and tail slaps. Link to FB videos.

Thomas McKane

-

[videos of T99s in FB comments].

Thomas McKane

-

12:58 - San Juan Clipper spotted the T99s traveling steadily into Port Susan [approx. 48.062432, -122.350393]!

Alli Montgomery

-

12:40 - Just watched two (maybe three?) right here [approx. 48.049429, -122.350641]. There’s a big boat trailing behind them.

Cierra McMurray

-

12:10 - There are more than two. This group appears to makeup the 99s. Currently off Camano Head, directional changes.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

11:33 - Looking more in line with Port Susan about a half mile from the north end of Hat - northbound.

11:28 - At approx. location on map [approx. 48.016316, -122.347677]. Northbound.

11:00 - Angling more towards Hat northbound.

10:55 - Mid Brighton and mid channel between Whidbey and Hat Island northbound.

Marilyn Armbruster

-

10:10 - Northbound close to the Whidbey Island side. Mid channel. Saw them on the Clinton/Mukilteo ferry. Crossed paths behind the ferry lane.

Sean Croteau

-

At 08:52 two orcas reported about one mile south of Cultus Bay, South Whidbey. No direction.

[WA app]

Tue, May 14 - Central Puget Sound

18:28 - Orcas at Sunnyside Beach. [follow up] yes, Sunnyside beach in Steilacoom! There were about three or four of them heading south, they were definitely orcas, we could tell because of their dorsals and size and definitely did not look like porpoises.

Delaney Ek [PSWS]

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Shamain Mccotry

Date of Sighting: May 14, 2024

Time: 1:40 PM

Species seen: Orca and Sea Lions

Number of animals seen: 4

Where seen: Point Ruston area of the Sound

Direction of travel : Unknown

Behaviors observed: Hunting

If orcas, any males?: 1

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

Tue, May 14 - Central Puget Sound (T65A3 & T65A5)

20:07 - My kiddo just called, they just past our place on Rocky Point headed to Silverdale in Dyes Inlet. Go figure, we are in NYC.

Chris Jeatran

-

19:53 - Passing the Illahee Community Dock going towards Brownsville.

photo by Christi Mlodzik, May 14, 2024

-

19:21 - Last post. Committed to Ilahee Passage. Headed north. Next viewing spot is Ilahee. Long downtimes, but slow movements. 

18:56 - Directly in the mid channel across from Port of Waterman. Heading west.

CT Thompson

-

18:29 - They are exiting Sinclair now.

Sarah Jordan

-

18:26 - T65A3 & T65A5 [approx. 47.580568, -122.586333].

Tatum Sears

-

18:07 - In front of the shipyard, heading out of the inlet.

Candy Hull

-

16:28 - Spotted headed into Sinclair Inlet by Puget Sound Naval Station. 

Crystal Mae Jackway

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Mark Soholt

Date of Sighting: May 14, 2024

Time: 4:15 PM

Species seen: orca

Number of animals seen: 2

Where seen: due east from Browns marina

Direction of travel : south

Behaviors observed: an older one and a younger one, body contact, looked like a lesson

If orcas, any males?: 18 and

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?:

-

T65A3 Amira

12:37 - Two orcas exiting Liberty Bay near Keyport. 

photo by Cindy Harley, May 14, 2024

-

T65A5 Indy & T65A3 Amira

11:30 - 12:30 - Adult male and female orca sighted together on a date in Liberty Bay. Appeared to be fishing, but possibly some mating behavior. Sighted entering the bay around 11:30, departed the bay around 12:30.

photo by Bryce Barich, May 14, 2024

-

07:00 - The brothers are at Apple Tree Point lane headed southbound.

photo by Iravasa Athem, May 14, 2024

Mon, May 13 - Discovery Passage, BC (T2Cs)

Video Highlights traveling northbound through Discovery Passage, Campbell River, British Columbia, early Monday morning. Link to Youtube video.

Heather V. Baskey

Mon, May 13 - Pender Island, BC (T90s & T124As)

T124A7

T90B Piglet

We visited with the T124As and T90s up near Pender Island, BC. Both matrilines were very surface active with spyhops, breaches, tail lobs, and pec slaps. Their energy was contagious and all onboard left the encounter with our orca love tanks full. Link to more photos.

photos by Cindi Crowder Rausch, May 13, 2024

-

11:23 - A small group with a male are off the north end of Waldron, heading northwest. 

Roxane Jackson Johnson

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Chris Wood

Date of Sighting: May 13, 2024

Time: 6:43 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 4

Where seen: Point Lawrence

Direction of travel : N

Behaviors observed: Hunting

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: Very close to shore

Photos available?: No

Mon, May 13 - Haro Strait

18:35 - Close to shore Hannah Heights southbound, at least one male.

18:12 - They think the whales flipped south.

18:03 - Friend reports northbound.

17:58 - A friend on shore sees fins south of the lighthouse, no direction of travel determined yet.

Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute [WSSJI] 

-

17:47 - Biggs calls on Lime Kiln. 

Silver Hubble [WSSJI] 

Mon, May 13 - Discovery Bay (T46Bs)

T46Bs

photo by Sarah Marie, May 13, 2024

-

Per Monika Wieland Shields, Orca Behavior Institute, this is the T46Bs.

-

16:13 - Spotting five/six orca all together now headed south west deep in the bay.

15:35 - Two males spotted so far. No clear direction. Appear to be hunting or foraging in the same area still.

15:14 - Roughly about here I’ve spotted one male so far [approx. 48.000248, -122.848904].

Rebecca Berger

-

14:55 - Twenty three minutes ago they were “deep in” the bay past the resort.

Rachel Rodell

-

11:04 - Three orcas seen about one mile north of Diamond Point, south of the eastern spit of Protection Island traveling east. Only saw once.

John T

Mon, May 13 - North Puget Sound (T65A3 & T65A5, T99s joined in the afternoon)

20:15 - Viewing from Shore Meadow, line of sight Point No Point. Looks like our friends have flipped and gone back south. They appear to be mid channel.

Cindi Crowder Rausch

-

20:30 - From Norwegian Point slowly trending south.

19:44 - Still milling north/northwest of Norwegian Point.

19:08 - Seeing them just northwest of Norwegian Park. Milling midchannel.

Jenny Klis

-

18:51 - Friend reports - they are approaching Limpet Lane from my view at Shore Meadow. They seem to be just outside of the green buoy off Limpet (but not there yet) northbound.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

17:32 - Seeing blows/and fins from Picnic Point. Far Whidbey side. At least two. Look to be about halfway between Eglon and Hansville. 

Destiny Shelton

-

16:36 - All of them northbound and moved closer to Whidbey side. I can still see them with binoculars.

Iravasa Athem

-

16:30 - Passing Apple Tree Point, steady and slow northbound. West side of shipping lane.

Sara Frey

-

16:01 - I can see them from Apple Tree Point Lane now.

Iravasa Athem

-

T65A3 Amira & T99C Barakat

T65A3 Amira & T99C Barakat

16:00 - These two were like peas in a pod. From the Edmonds ferry. Practically attached at the hip.

photos by Steve Rice, May 13, 2024

-

15:53 - Just saw them with binoculars from Redmond Beach, north of Kingston ferry, west side.

Emily Pitcher

-

15:50 - Passed Kingston ferry terminal. Still northbound mostly mid channel spread out.

15:18 - Update from my grandmother - coming up on President Point close to shore and spread out.

15:33 - Coming up on Kingston Marina.

Ashley Alecci Goninan

-

15:20 - North off Kingston. 

Joanne Graves

-

15:40 - Passing through ferry lanes. West side of channel, not terribly close to shore.

14:57 - Moving north from Point Jefferson toward Kingston.

Steve Rice

-

*T65A3 & T65A5 met T99s and traveled together north*

-

14:45 - They’ve moved north just off Jefferson Point. Some tail slapping and surface activity.

14:30 - The pair I’d been watching had moved northwest and then the other group came up from the south. They should be in the same spot now, near a white sailboat southwest of Point Jefferson.

14:22 - Two groups might be close to meeting. South of Point Jefferson.

13:35 - Between Fay Bainbridge and Point Jefferson. West side of channel. Viewing from the top of Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. The two I saw were pointed South, but not moving with any purpose in any particular direction.

Steve Rice

-

13:03 - Passing President Point.

Ashley Alecci Goninan

-

12:47 - San Juan Clipper leaving T65A3 and A5 foodsharing at point of map [approx. 47.776770, -122.479230].

Alli Montgomery

-

11:36 - Sara Frey called to report two orcas (she believes T65A3 Amir/a and T65A5 Indy) heading southbound right off Apple Tree Point, Kitsap shore [video in FB comments]. 

-

11:25 - Flipped to south bound.

11:18 - [T65A3 & T65A5 approx. location 47.87118, -122.488152].

10:51 - Confirmed two [orcas]. Still no direction.

10:38 - I believe I’m seeing three orcas from Kingston. I’ll confirm soon with my camera. Long down times. Not sure of any direction yet [approx. 47.905344, -122.488938].  

Iravasa Athem

Mon, May 13 - Central Puget Sound (T99s before they joined T65A3 & T65A5 in the afternoon)

13:13 - Now stalled/slowed off Fay Bainbridge Park.

12:55 - Per AIS looks like T99s are still south of Fay Bainbridge close to Kitsap side (west of southbound shipping lanes).

Orca Network

-

12:43 - Mid channel northbound viewing from Fay Bainbridge.

Emily Klobuchar

-

12:13 - Leaders just passed Discovery Park lighthouse, now more mid-channel.

Jim Reitz

-

12:00 - Off Yaquina Beach.

Jennifer Wilson

-

11:58 - Still nearby the Orca I boat. Steady northbound [approx. 47.632938, -122.480853].

Steve Rice

-

11:45 - Several orcas just passed Eagle Harbor northbound, very close to shore. Just passed out of view behind Wing Point, closely followed by Orca 1 boat.

Jim Reitz

-

11:43 - Pod now just outside Eagle Harbor, abeam Wing Point, Bainbridge still heading north.

Bill D

-

11:28 - San Juan Clipper leaving these wonderful 99's looking like they're trending northwest into Eagle Harbor. Five to six minutes downtimes [approx. 47.610081, -122.485360].

Alli Montgomery

-

11:15 - Northbound off Blakely Rock.

Taylor White

-

11:09 - Update on the T99s northbound [approx. 47.585997, -122.475498].

Bart Rulon Wildlife

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Robin Pedersen

Date of Sighting: May 13, 2024

Time: 11:05 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: 47.562278, -122.535671

Direction of travel : WNW

Behaviors observed: Hunting

If orcas, any males?: Probably 2

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.or

T99C Barakat

photos by Robin Pedersen, May 13, 2024

-

11:03 - At tip of Bainbridge Island, choosing the east side of the island to pass. Hugging close to shore.

10:59 - Traversing northbound past Manchester on Bainbridge Island side of channel.

Taylor White

-

10:39 - T99s northeastbound after eating a meal [approx.47.550957, -122.484304].

Bart Rulon Wildlife

-

10:31 - Slowly moving north now almost to Manchester cargo ship.

10:15 - North tip of Blake by PSE boat view from Emma Schmitz Park in West Seattle.

Mary Hartmann

-

09:13 - They just flipped and are southbound at the moment.

09:09 - Just spotted them, mid channel, northbound, off of Lincoln Park, as viewed from Fauntlee Hills via binoculars.

Mike Yov

-

08:51 - He said they were delayed in leaving Vashon so I am assuming close to Vashon! Sorry no more specifics! He just said there were multiple.

photo courtesy of Halee Dams, May 13, 2024

-

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Halee Dams

Date of Sighting: May 13, 2024

Time: 8:21 AM

Species seen: Orcas

Number of animals seen: 5

Where seen: Orcas spotted off the Vashon water taxi. Husband just texted me and said “it’s a pod”, no more specifics sorry.

Direction of travel : Headed north, unsure of owcr

Behaviors observed:

If orcas, any males?:

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: No

Sun, May 12 - San Juans (T90s & T124As separately)

T124A Kittiwake & T124A7

T90B Piglet

IDs by Rachel Haight, Orca Network

Got an extremely close pass from the T90s on a trip with Island Adventures out of Anacortes. Engine was off/all whale watching guidelines were followed/the whales mugged us! It was incredible. Not entirely sure where we were when we saw the T90s. We also saw the T124As near Point Disney/Waldron Island. Link to more photos.

photos by Kelly Dawson, May 12, 2024

-

T90C Tigger & T90 Eagle

I went on Island Adventures tour for Mother’s Day. It was a first for me. We were so lucky to spend time with T90 Eagle and her offspring.

photos by Elizabeth Johnston, May 12, 2024

-

Link to FB video.

Jenny Holmes

Sun, May 12 - South Puget Sound (T99s)

In Oakland Bay. First time seeing them so close. Link to FB reel.

Kathy Cox

Sat, May 11 - Possession Sound (T65A3 & T65A5)

T65A3 Amira harassing a gray whale

Saturday on our boat, Tim and I started off the morning visiting with orcas Indy (T65A5) and Amira (T65A3) brothers with the nickname the Lost Boys as they have been traveling without the rest of their family for a bit. We lost them after a few minutes so we went on to see if we could find some grays which we found at the SE end of Hat Island. As we were watching the grays, we saw Swiftsure getting closer, they had been with the orcas, but they were heading straight for us! The orcas decided to harass the grays, two on two!! I only got one shot with Amira and the two grays as most of the action was happening underwater. The grays (CRC2557 & CRC2259) stayed side by side and rolled and tail swirled to keep Indy and Amira at bay. The orcas would swim away like no big deal and then turn and charge back over to the grays. It lasted about 15 minutes but was still an intense encounter!! Happy my grays were okay! Link to more photos.

photo by Janine Harles, May 11, 2024

Fri, May 10 - Gulf Islands, BC

14:30 - A presumed six member transient orca group motored by our cottage. Photos from south side of Saturna show several of the whales heading westward towards Monarch Head. An hour later a solitary humpback headed in the same direction. A hour time difference has quite an impact on the visualization and lighting of the whales and water.

photo by James McLarnon, May 10, 2024

Fri, May 10 - San Juans (T86A1s, T124A1, T124Ds)

A little late with these pics – taken last Friday, May 10, when out with Blue Kingdom and loads of whaley friends, including Amanda Colbert who was our tour leader!! We started with lots of porpoise, steller sea lions, a few seals, many awesome seabirds and of course, orca!! We watched the T124Ds and T86As as they meandered around the Birch Bay area and west - with beautiful weather and lighting conditions.

photos by Jill Hein, May 10, 2024

Fri, May 10 - South Puget Sound (T90s & T99s)

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Drew Hart

Date of Sighting: May 10, 2024

Time: 8:22 AM

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 6

Where seen: Hammersley Inlet (Cape Horn)

Direction of travel : W

Behaviors observed: Traveling and hunting

If orcas, any males?: Yes

Any unusual markings?:

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?:

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

Mon, Mar 18 - Saratoga Passage (T46s & T124Ds)

Male is T46E Thor

My husband and I were vacationing in Washington back in March. On March 18th we saw these three orcas from Camano Island State Park.

photo by Kathy Cummings, March 18, 2024

Thu, May 9 - WA Coast

17:19 - Orca sighting from cruise ship off Clallam County: I saw and photographed orcas approximately here, North Pacific Ocean, (48.1819, -125.7169).

photos by Jack Maynard, May 9, 2024

Fri, Apr 26 - BC Coast

Sent via form submission from Orca Network

Name: Audrey Sailers

Date of Sighting: April 26, 2024

Time:

Species seen: Orca

Number of animals seen: 12

Where seen: 49°03'22.1"N 126°28'55.5"W

Direction of travel : NW along Victoria Island

Behaviors observed: Traveling, fin slapping , tail slapping, rolling and breaching.

If orcas, any males?: yes at least 2

Any unusual markings?: not noticed

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your encounter?: The were tail slapping, rolling and breaching

Photos available?: Yes, I will email the photos to sightings@orcanetwork.org

Wed, May 15 - Puget Sound

13:42 - Found this little humpback, straight west of Golden Gardens a mile and a quarter. Really tricky low surfacings. Still northbound, three to eleven minute dives.

Brian McGinn, PSE

-

13:30 - Spotted the humpback due west of Shilshole Marina parking lot steady northbound east of mid channel [approx. 47.689739, -122.432527].

Alisa Lemire Brooks, Orca Network

-

13:05 - Relaying report that this humpback has been spotted off Discovery Park headed north.

Rachel Haight, Orca Network

-

11:54 - Delayed report to Whale Alert app had humpback in north end Elliott Bay. No other details.

-

10:15 - Laurie Baker, WSF Marine Ops, emailed at 10:24 to report: 1015hrs: SEA/BREM/BI vessels notified of a single humpback whale located north of Alki Point, headed in a northeast direction.

-

09:40 - Sound Action shared report they received of a humpback just south of the Fauntleroy, West Seattle ferry lanes traveling northbound. 

Fri, May 10 - Saturna Island, BC

14:30 - A presumed six member transient orca group motored by our cottage. Photos from south side of Saturna show several of the whales heading westward towards Monarch Head. An hour later a solitary humpback headed in the same direction. A hour time difference has quite an impact on the visualization and lighting of the whales and water.

photo by James McLarnon, May 10, 2024

Sat, May 18 - Possession Sound

10:30 - Two gray whales in the Snohomish River delta. Puget Sound Express is on them now.

Jaime Shields [ONCG]

Fri, May 17 - Possession Sound (CRC2259, CRC2362 Thidwick, CRC2557)

16:40 - Still at least one in the area! A bit further east from the earlier map.

Stephanie Brenaman

-

10:39 - 2362, 2557, and 2259 are circling around at my map spot [approx. 48.013761, -122.287226].

Bart Rulon Art & Photography

Wed, May 15 - Possession Sound

19:03 - New sighting. Seeing two to three gray whales out from Grand Ave Park [approx.48.014959, -122.254988].

Ariel Yseth, Whale Scout

Tue, May 14 - Possession Sound

13:39 - San Juan Clipper observed a gray whale off southeast Hat Island. Spyhopping behavior!

Alli Montgomery

-

08:50 - Viewing one gray whale from above the Mukilteo ferry terminal. Single gray moving east of Hat Island [approx. 48.033488, -122.287281].

Stephanie Brenaman

Mon, May 13 - Possession Sound

15:21 - Currently watching a grey whale in between Everett Marina and Hat Island. Heading south.

Ginny H.

Sat, May 11 - Possession Sound

Saturday when Tim and I stopped the boat to serve up some lunch, we had seen some blows in the distance. We decided to go see which whales they were after lunch. While getting a bite, I looked up and saw that the whales had come to see us! They were heading right for us, one went around us, but the other who I have not identified yet came up to the boat and gave us a blow and a quick tail swirl then swam underneath us and caught up to its friend!! It looks a lot like a crocodile! Link to more photos.

photos by Janine Harles, May 11, 2024

Fri, May 17 - Sequim Bay

10:07 - Just saw a whale in Sequim Bay. [Follow up:] I am guessing it was a minke. We saw it surface three times and then never saw it again. It was on the inside of the spit, and after the last sighting there were several fast speed boats coming into the bay around the spit and we did not see it again.

Peggy Dawson [ONCG]

Tue, May 14 - Central Puget Sound

13:45 - I saw a grey whale just off the shore at Dune Park. I heard it than just a quick glimpse. It was heading towards Owen Beach. West. [possibly could have been humpback -RH].

Laurie Kennedy