Kelly Klein | M/V Osprey | June 19th, 2026 | 12:30pm
We left the harbor and continued south in San Juan Channel eventually making our way into Cattle Pass. We made a quick pit stop at Goose Island, one of our birding hotspots. Enjoying looks at the cormorant nests and a few scattered harbor seals on the shoreline. Making our way into a bigger body of water known as The Strait of Juan de Fuca, we were treated to crystal clear views of the Olympic mountain range, perfectly mirrored in the glassy water around us. Continuing south, we quickly noticed two distinct large dorsal fins in the distance! A pair of adult Biggs killer whales already identified as:
- The T125A/Jetsam —estimated to be born in 1998
- The T128/Flotsam — estimated to be born in 1988
These two are named after the electric eel duo in The Little Mermaid. We identify each wild orca by their unique dorsal fin, saddle patch and eyes patches. Jetsom T125A has an incredibly distinct deep gash in the near center of his fin, making him very easy to identify. Researchers believe that these two males are likely brothers, but unable to officially confirm without genetics. Regardless, they certainly enjoy each other company and are most often seen traveling side by side. We watched them hastily travel across the strait towards San Juan Island's shoreline. So incredibly synchronized with each breath!. We were even treated to some breathtaking looks as the orcas surfaced many times just under Mount Bakers snow covered peak.