New Biggs Calf Video

The babies are back! Bigg’s killer whales abound in the Salish Sea this spring. Ocean EcoVentures, member of Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) recently captured video footage (video credit Ocean EcoVentures and videographer – Tasli Shaw) of one of the newest members of the population, T065A6, a young calf probably less than one month old. Watch closely and you will spot the calf popping up next to mom. (Click image below to view video)

With boating season opening day just around the corner (May 5, 2018), it is increasingly important for boaters to familiarize themselves with PWWA guidelines for operating a vessel around whales. These guidelines work for both commercial and private vessel operators. Those that are taking the boat out for a fun trip on the Salish Sea should familiarize themselves with these recommendations to protect our resident and visiting whale populations.

The Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) has updated its guidelines for operating a vessel around whales. These guidelines, developed and approved by 32 whale watch tour operators from Washington and British Columbia, are focused on protecting and supporting the growth of whale populations in the Salish Sea.

Major highlights include:

• A slow zone of seven (7) knots within one (1) kilometer of whales.
• Maintaining a distance of 200 yards (US)/200 meters (Canada) from Southern Resident killer whales.
• A suggested limited viewing time of 60 minutes in the vicinity of a group of whales and a 30 minute time limit if there are 10 or more vessels within one (1) kilometer of whales.

You can support the San Juan Update by doing business with our loyal advertisers, and by making a one-time contribution or a recurring donation.