Kelly | M/V Osprey | July 22nd, 2026 | 12:30pm
The M/V Osprey departed Friday Harbor and took a hard left in San Juan Channel. Today we were very lucky, a group of whales was reported right in our backyard! Not but 10 minutes later we slowed the boat and began to notice dorsal fins in the distance off our port side. This group of 9 whales was identified as the 35A's and the 38A's:
- T035A/Lester — female, born in 1998
- T035A1/Opal — female, born in 2010
- T035A1A* — born in 2026
- T035A2/Topaz — born in 2013
- T035A3/Garnet — born in 2018
- T035A4/Agate — female, born in 2022
- T035A1/Opal — female, born in 2010
- T038A/Dana/Arrow — female, born in 2000
- T038A2/Archer — born in 2020
- T038A3/Quill — born in 2024
We watched this large family meetup take their time transiting north in San Juan Channel, the spunky newborn from the T35a's launching almost its entire body out of the water with each breath. We are beyond happy to see so many fresh newborn orcas in the Biggs killer whale population. In contrast to the critically endangered Salmon eating southern resident orcas, it is inspiring to see a population that is absolutely thriving. We next transited north toward White Rock, and were treated to looks at our ever so abundant harbor seal lounging on the rocks. Many mom and pup pairs adorned the rocky area! We also were treated to looks at two bald eagles perched atop the highest point on the rock. Not our usually bald eagle adult pairing....but instead one adult and one juvenile perched side by side. Perhaps a parent with child? On our way back to Friday Harbor we made time to stop for one more quick looks at the group of 9 orcas, this time making their way up Presidents Channel.
Photos from this tour here:
https://sanjuansafaris.smugmug.com/7-22-KK