Orcas spotted repeatedly under Lions Gate Bridge and at Stanley Park
Two pods of killer whales have been lingering in Vancouver waters for several days, with residents capturing video from the seawall and boat vantage points.
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Orcas have been making repeated appearances in Vancouver waters over the past week, with residents and wildlife watchers capturing video and photos from Stanley Park and near the Lions Gate Bridge.
On June 23, Ycee Lim shared several photos of T86A4 "Akia" and other individuals under the Lions Gate Bridge. Jessica Stocks posted videos of the T123s from Prospect Point at Stanley Park on June 25. Local residents rayaeffect and raysandhues also captured video from the Stanley Park seawall, writing: "Still trying to process what I just witnessed. They came so close to us. Feeling so grateful."
The Orca Man, who promotes a tool for locating orcas in Vancouver waters, posted video commentary on Instagram: "These were the T86As and T124As, and they've been hanging around Vancouver for a few days."
A new study published in the Marine Mammal Science journal finds that transient killer whales are now seen in the Salish Sea for more than two-thirds of the year on average. Humpback whales have reclaimed a feeding spot they historically used, largely thanks to robust conservation efforts. Grey whales also feed in shallow coastal waters as they migrate northward.
Vancouver Whale Watch, a Steveston-based agency, operates tours with a "98 per cent success rate" for viewing marine life. The company recently announced its vessels are operating open-air through mid-September.