Orcas Island Whale Watching | The Orcas Ohana Vacation Home

If youre visiting Orcas Island, it would be terrible if you didnt actually see some Orcas since they are the Islands namesake

. For about half of the year (from about mid-April until the beginning of October), the southern resident killer whales (SRKW) live in and around the San Juan Islands. Because of this the Islands are considered the best place to see Orcas in their natural habitat.

Why do killer whales congregate around the San Juans?

The reason that so many killer whales can be found around the San Juans is because there is an abundant food source here, salmon. Salmon makes up about 95 percent of the killer whale diet and luckily for visitors and residents of the Islands, salmon travel up and down the coast of the Islands and the outlying areas.

How many whales are in the area this time of year?

While the numbers vary, there are generally around 90 Orcas that call this area home during the April to October season. During the 2009-2010 season, six babies were born in the area which was extremely exciting for residents and visitors alike. As we already mentioned, Orcas love salmon, but not just any salmon, they love Chinook. The availability of Chinook as a food source in the area has a direct effect on the whale population, so the critical salmon habitat has a direct relationship to the number of whales calling this area home, so when so many babies are born it is a good indication of the health of the area.

Will I get to see whales if I go on a whale watching tour?

Most operatorsOrcas Island Eclipse Charters and San Juan Safaris have a 90 percent or higher success rate in spotting Orcas during their tours. However, no matter if you see Orcas or not, you will get to see many other marine animals that might also include dolphins and other species of whales. Many operators offer a guarantee that if you dont see Orcas, you can come back another day, but this varies, so its important to check with the tour operator.

What should I look for in a whale watching tour?

The most important thing to look for is a tour that is not overcrowded and that has a tour leader who is a naturalist or other kind of expert to help guide you and educate you on the marine life of the area. For children, please remember that life jackets are important and should be worn throughout the tour.

If you are looking for something to do on your Orcas Island Vacation, consider Whale Watching. Its educational and quite fun.

by: Nicki Guyton

POST COMMENT

Planning Home Theaters With The Help Of A Home Theater Store Tenant Loans Helpful For Non Homeowners In Uk Equity Release - For Aging Homeowners Who Need Extra Money How Do Home Improvement Loans Work? Build Stronger Homes With Effective Concrete Foundations Best Typing Jobs To Work From Home Home Collection Loans- Grab Instant Cash In The Least Possible Time 3 Easy Ways To Make Roswell Homes For Sale Feel Like New A Horrible Homestay In France Turns Out Good! Great Reasons To Look Into Savage Homes For Sale Try An Ultrasound Machine For Arthritis Treatment In The Comfort Of Your Home Oklahoma City Property Managers One Stop Solution For Many Homeowners How To Find The Best Home Builder Perth