August 1, 2011

Calm, sunny seas greeted us on our journey to the Southern half of San Juan Island. It is finally starting to feel like summer! Today the L12 subgroup of L-pod were there fishing for Chinooks in beautiful Juan de Fuca Strait. We were easily able to identify Calypso (L94) because of her 2 year old calf L113. Her sister Matia (L77) was with her as was her brother Mega (L41). Their grandmother Alexis (L12) was also likely around, watching over the grandchildren and her one great grandchild. These family oriented whales stuck close together for the whole time we watched them, the calf never far from mom or an uncle or aunt.
For the trip back we chose a scenic route, checking out the Chain islands with their heaps of sunbathing Harbour Seals, Cormorants, Gulls and Guillemots. We also paused to snap some photos of the beautiful Trial Island Lighthouse, with its bright red and white contrasting against the distant Olympic Mountains. The final stretch back into the harbour was a long curve out in to the Strait in front of Victoria, the glassy calm waters were perfect for spotting incoming humpbacks or greys; however, it was still a little early for these visitors and we instead just enjoyed the cruise. Sunshine and whales, my favourites!