A trio of orcas recently spotted in Vancouver Harbour has piqued the interest of residents and marine experts alike. The whales, not previously documented in British Columbia waters, are believed to be from an Alaska population, as indicated by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).
DFO scientists are currently studying these unique whales, which have been observed swimming between the Lions Gate Bridge and the Second Narrows Bridge over several days. The federal institution stated that more information will be shared once their whale experts conclude their assessment.
Jared Towers, the executive director of Bay Cetology, highlighted the rarity of these orcas, noting that they differ from the well-known transient orcas commonly seen in the Salish Sea. These unfamiliar whales do not belong to the West Coast Transients but are genetically distinct, with unique DNA and vocalizations.
According to Towers, photographing the dorsal fins, saddle patches, and eye patches of killer whales helps in individual recognition and long-term tracking. Despite decades of photo identification efforts for whales in B.C. waters, it is uncommon for entirely new whales to appear in the region.
One of the intriguing features of these orcas is the presence of distinct scars near their dorsal fins, possibly from encounters with cookiecutter sharks found in deep, open waters. Marine mammal researcher Josh McInnes from the University of British Columbia suggested that these scars indicate an oceanic habitat for the whales, rather than the coastal transient orcas commonly sighted near Vancouver.
While some experts speculate about the whales’ origin, definitive conclusions about their population remain uncertain. Marine naturalist Aly Kohlman emphasized the need for more observation before determining the specific whale group they belong to.
The unusual behavior of these orcas lingering in the busy harbour has raised concerns among researchers. Kohlman suggested that the whales might be “psychologically trapped” in the high-traffic area, surrounded by various watercraft and noise. Despite no recent sightings, researchers are monitoring the situation closely to understand the whales’ movements.
To aid in identification efforts, researchers encourage the public to upload whale images to Finwave.io. However, it is crucial for vessels to adhere to Canada’s Marine Mammal Regulations, maintaining a safe distance of at least 400 meters from killer whales in southern B.C. coastal waters.