Orca watching tours in Bremer Bay are currently departing daily as we enjoy time with the apex predators that call these waters home. Arriving in The Patch on a beautiful morning we scanned the sighting grounds as Shearwaters and Albatross glided past in search mode for the Orca as well. We needn’t look far as shortly after arriving a slinky dorsal fin belonging to one of the males from Lucky’s family pod surfaced. He was in cruise mode and stealthy with a methodical and gentle surfacing and downtime rhythm. Travelling with him it was clear to see the family was spread far and wide as they covered as much ground as possible in search of breakfast. Further blows were observed and we went to investigate if these were members of his family or another pod moving through the area.
A tiny movement caught our eye and immediately we recognised new Bremer Bay Orca calf Gabriel and with Alex onboard today is was a special moment for them both to meet for the first time! Gabriel was looking sprightly and keeping up with mum perfectly fine as they travelled with the family pod. Spending a short time with Gabriel we then moved out with Giovanni and the second half of the family as they travelled with us calmly. Plenty of ground was covered and into the early afternoon they settled in for some rest with each surfacing very close as the family remained side by side and breathing in unison. It is always beautiful to watch a family of Orca move as one and the peacefulness of resting apex predators. A good half hour nap was enjoyed and then it was back to work as the continued on in forage mode with Akama, Gabriel and pod members rejoining. The family was relaxed and keeping an eye and hear out for their next meal opportunity with the food requirements of Akama currently up by 50% as she requires increased sustenance for herself and production of nutrient rich milk for her calf. A busy time for this family pod as we wished them well for the afternoon and evening ahead with hopes of a big meal soon for them all.
