TEXTBOOK DAY IN BREMER BAY

Ocean Beginnings

As we headed out to the Bremer canyon we were blessed with sunshine on the ocean from the onset of the expedition and throughout. With the sun shining down, the orcas were out to hunt and play! Beneath the endless sky, the vast ocean’s shimmering expanse set the stage for our adventure.
Orcas—also known as killer whales—are the largest members of the dolphin family. They are renowned for their sophisticated hunting strategies and social behaviour. Often coordinating in pods to capture prey ranging from fish to marine mammals.

Orca Communication

Just like clockwork as we dropped off the shelf we heard the classic call of “Orca blows 12 O’clock!”
This distinctive call is part of their complex vocal repertoire, used for communication and coordination among pod members. This is a subject that continues to fascinate researchers around the world.

Birds and the Feast

Excitement charged the air as the orcas surged around us, and oil slicks formed, drawing more birds into the scene! Three Wandering Albatross soared high above, executing close passes as they scoured the surface for leftovers. The birds devoured deep, beetroot-red pieces of meat within seconds of surfacing, having waited days for a feeding opportunity. The ocean’s wonders burst into life as the albatrosses capitalised on the feeding frenzy.

Wandering Albatrosses boast the longest wingspan of any living bird—sometimes exceeding 3.5 meters—which enables them to glide effortlessly over vast ocean expanses. Their opportunistic feeding strategy exploits the disturbances created by marine predators’ hunts, forcing prey to the surface where they become easy targets.

Meet the Pod

We initially encountered Cookie and El Notcho, followed by Digby and younger calves under 5 years old, and finally Split Tip with the rest of the calves. Naming individual orcas, such as Cookie, El Notcho, Digby, and Split Tip, highlights the expedition’s long-term observations. Researchers commonly use such identifiers to study orca social structures, enabling them to track distinctive behaviours and roles within the pod. for 4 seconds

Initially, we encountered Cookie and El Notcho. Shortly after, we observed Digby alongside young calves under five years old. Finally, Split Tip and the remaining calves made their appearance.

Naming individual orcas—such as Cookie, El Notcho, Digby, and Split Tip—not only captures the expedition’s long-term observations but also serves as a vital tool for researchers. These identifiers help scientists study orca social structures and track the unique behaviours and roles within the pod.

Playful Swells

Digby and the youngsters pushed southwest with energy, full of playfulness! We remained on our coordinate while the orcas darted back and forth beneath our vessel, surfing the 2-metre swell. The ocean’s gentle rhythm mirrored their exuberant movements. Digby impressed us with his sideways surfing too! Play is a vital aspect of orca behaviour. Young orcas, in particular, engage in acrobatic displays, such as breaching and riding waves. These activities not only build physical strength and coordination but also reinforce social bonds within the pod. for 4 seconds

Digby and the youngsters pushed southwest, full of playful energy! We maintained our position while the orcas darted beneath our vessel, expertly riding the 2-metre swell. The gentle rhythm of the ocean echoed their exuberance, and Digby even captivated us with his sideways surfing. Play remains a vital aspect of orca behaviour; indeed, young orcas frequently perform acrobatic displays—breaching and riding waves—that build physical strength, enhance coordination, and reinforce social bonds within the pod.

Calves in Action

The calves in the afternoon were so playful, breaching over and over again! Their antics were reminiscent of the vibrant spirit of the ocean, and we were left in anticipation for Split Tip to start showing off!
Frequent breaching among calves is a common sight. It is interpreted as both a form of play and practice for more complex manoeuvres later in life. Observing these behaviours provides valuable insights into their developmental stages and social interactions.

Ocean Encounters

On the way home we were joined by a small pod of Common Dolphins. The encounter was a heartwarming reminder of the ocean’s abundant life.
Common Dolphins are celebrated for their agility and exuberance. Often seen riding the bow waves of vessels, they travel in pods that can vary in size. Often from a handful of individuals to much larger groups. Highlighting the rich biodiversity of this marine environment.

What an amazing way to round out the Bremer Canyon Killer Whale expedition! Join us today!