A trio of unfamiliar killer whales recently appeared in Vancouver Harbour, surprising residents and marine experts alike. These whales, believed to be from an Alaska population, have not been previously documented in British Columbia waters, according to Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).
DFO scientists are currently studying the unique whales, observed swimming between the Lions Gate Bridge and the Second Narrows Bridge, to gain insights into their behavior. A DFO science team from Nanaimo, B.C., has been actively monitoring the whales as part of this assessment.
Jared Towers, executive director of Bay Cetology, highlighted the rarity of these sightings, noting that the majority of orcas in the Salish Sea are well-known, such as transient orcas, also known as Bigg’s killer whales. These three distinct whales are genetically different from the usual Bigg’s killer whale population in the region, as evidenced by their unique DNA and vocalizations.
Researchers have identified distinguishing features on the whales, including scars near their dorsal fins believed to be from cookiecutter sharks typically found in open-ocean habitats. Marine mammal expert Josh McInnes from the University of British Columbia noted that the presence of such scars hints at the whales possibly being oceanic killer whales, a rare occurrence in coastal waters.
Despite the excitement surrounding these unusual visitors, experts caution against approaching the whales closely. Aly Kohlman, a marine naturalist, emphasized the need for further observation to determine the whales’ exact population. The whales’ prolonged stay in the bustling harbour has raised concerns among researchers, who speculate that the animals may feel “psychologically trapped” in the noisy and congested environment.
As researchers continue to monitor the whales, they encourage the public to share any photographs through Finwave.io for identification purposes. It is essential 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.
The current whereabouts of the mysterious orcas remain uncertain, as researchers strive to unravel the enigma surrounding their unexpected presence in Vancouver Harbour.