The Ultimate Bremer Orca Experience unfolded today as we witnessed a powerful Orca surge, hunt, feeding, play and even the Pilot Whales joined in on the fun! The family pods were happy to see us as members of Queen, Alki, Cooee, Cookie and Valerie’s pods were observed as they traveled together excitedly. A fast and powerful surge erupted as the call went out and the Orca moved quickly while also having fun at the same time with plenty of bow and wake riding. At certain times we had five pod members surfing in our wake and having an absolute blast as they spiralled through our bubble veil left behind and porpoised spectacularly.
The hunt was an efficient one as they were able to capture the Beaked Whale prior to it reaching the surface and with so many families involved it was clear that the poor Beaked Whale never stood a chance of escape from these apex predators. An enormous oil slick began to form as the Orca now shared out their hard earned meal amongst everybody involved and began to feed. The birds revelled in the opportunity of a good meal on such a light wind day, especially the large Wandering Albatross with over six different individuals in the area amongst many feisty Shearwaters and dainty Storm Petrels capturing every little morsel of food they could.
Celebrations ensued with breaching, spy hops and tail slaps directing each Orca pod member to where the food was and it was a spectacular scene to be part of as so many animals gathered to feed. The energy levels lifted yet again as over one hundred Pilot Whales moved in on the area after hearing all the commotion and continued to remain near the Orca for the rest of the day. A few surges at the Orca didn’t stop the feeding but did get them all moving along and on many occasions we had the Pilot Whales within ten meters of the Orca, a remarkable sight to witness the unique interaction between these two species.
After feasting for a long time and showing off their meal to us, it was now time to play again as all the calves and adults began to mingle and socialise. The interaction between young males Wonks, Prince, Slater and Echo was most impressive as they wrestled and chased after each other around us showing off their incredible size and strength even though they are only teenagers! A brilliant way to complete what was certainly the ultimate Bremer Orca Experience as to witness so many behaviours in one tour is very special indeed.
