Whale Watching Report

Gray Whales and lots of Tufted Puffins were sighted off Whidbey Island, just south of Deception Pass. Stay tuned to the Whale Report for an update from Naturalist Kate Janes.

New Friend (Gray Whale)

Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes

Hop, Skip, Take Off (Tufted Puffin)

Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes

Ground Nest For Acrophobic Eagles (Eagles afraid of heights)

Photo by Naturalist Kate Janes

"Our journey lead us towards the west side of Whidbey Island where we found none other than a California Gray Whale. Apparently this whale is in no hurry to leave the protected and food rich area of the San Juans to make the long journey back to Alaska (the location of its major feeding grounds) as the majority of the gray's in the area have already departed. We found this gentle giant cruising steadily southward under a blue sky. After a great visit and having the opportunity to hear its exhalations and a surprise close encounter we ventured off towards Smith & Minor Islands. There we were treated to some great looks at some parrots of the sea, the beautiful Tufted Puffin. Smith Island is home to a small colony of Puffins and they were out enjoying the day on the water. We had one take flight right in front of the Island Explorer 3 and flew right by the boat for a great photo opportunity! We also saw over 20 Harbor Seals bobbing in the bull kelp and a few Bald Eagles near the two nests on the islands." - Naturalist Kate Janes