Bremer Orca calf nursing was a very special observation today amongst much playful antics from Gabrielle and pod members. After a little rain early in the morning it was great to see the sun was out and shining for our departure from the Bremer Bay Boat Harbour. Making our way out to The Patch we arrived to B-Slice greeting us and he was quickly followed by the rest of the pod as the socialised and mingled around us playfully. A warm welcome and great start to our morning as the Orca seemed rather pleased for some social fun with us before it was time to get back to foraging. Stealthy and low profile, the family did well to maintain minimal time at the surface and work the area well as they were sighted carrying a small amount of what looked like squid a short time later. The family continued on with their foraging while we had the attention of Akama and Gabrielle who were happy to play while the rest of the family were busy.
During this interaction we were amazed to watch as Akama rolled onto her back and as her belly faced up towards the sky little Gabrielle moved in for a quick feeding attempt. A rare sight to witness a wild Orca calf attempting to feed as we could clearly see Gabrielle nudging Akama’s lower belly in an attempt to let mum know milk was wanted! Just beautiful to witness and an example of how these mother Orca will decide when their baby feeds, it is not an endless supply of milk and each meal will be provided when Akama knows the time is right. Gabrielle then decided to have some fun with the younger members of the family as they regrouped and played around the Steep Point. A very special day with the Orca and exciting opportunity to see how Gabrielle lets mum know when that little belly is rumbling, hungry bubba!
