Bremer Bay Orca predation took place this morning with a successful Beaked Whale predation resulting in some spectacular surface language, prolonged feeding and plenty of play. It was a cosy day to begin with as a thick cloud cover hung low and suited the mood as the Orca dived deeply and resurfaced with their meal, a Beaked Whale had unfortunately been in the wrong place at the wrong time. The call went out as they excitedly shared their meal amongst pod members and it was fantastic to see them succeed as yesterday was a long day of searching for this family pod without reward. Today was a different story and as they feasted we observed spectacular fluke slapping and buoyant spy hops as they popped up high above the surface to look around. Feeding lasted just over two hours as the meal was broken down into smaller and smaller pieces with cheeky Eddie in particular constantly coming over to show off his meal to everyone onboard.
Food in their bellies and energy levels increasing the calves decided it was playtime as they chased and wrestled around us excitedly. The adults rested on the outskirts and took the time to catchup on some rest and sleep while the little ones ran riot. It was amazing to watch their agility as for over two hours they were busy playing and socialising with big males B-Slice and Giovanni coming over to join in every so often. Eddie was a very cheeky and so was Giovanni today as they interacted with females from Cookie’s family pod. Belly up and pursuing the girls they were mimicking mating behaviour and didn’t leave much to the imagination, oh dear! It is often observed after a successful hunt and feeding as all Orca are in a relaxed and social mood with the youngsters sometimes getting a bit too mischievous. It was a brilliant day with the Orca with such perfect weather conditions to enjoy as well with the cloud dispersing and leaving a bright sunny day behind for all to soak in and enjoy the Southern Ocean at its finest.