Rare Opportunity
"The Island Explorer 3 departed once again under a brilliant blue sky and found whales very close to the marina. We actually found our first two Gray Whales within moments of leaving a couple of California Sea Lions at marker #5. The two cruised in the shallows barely exposing their massive backs as they gracefully slid back into the water! After enjoying their presence for a few respiration's we ventured north towards Camano Head where we had heard news that the body of a deceased Gray Whale was located. Often when a marina mammal dies the body sinks never to be seen again, but will nourish other organisms in the watery depths. There are times however when their bodies are washed ashore allowing scientists the opportunity to perform a necropsy. This allows for valuable insight into the life of the individual but also is helpful in understanding the species as a whole. So imagine the knowledge that can be obtained from a Gray Whale that we know died mid-afternoon yesterday. The whale was in tow behind a small boat and will be turned over to Cascadia Research to perform the necropsy to find out the cause of death. After a brief visit Captain Carl spotted 3 Gray Whales near Camano Head moving towards Port Susan. So we went over to visit with #21, #22 & #53 before having to return back to the dock. Our guests enjoyed great looks at the three giants as they swam in close proximity to one another and we even got to enjoy their smelly breaths!!" - Naturalist Kate Janes
posted by Island Adventures Whale Report @ 7:12 PM
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