Charmed by Prince today as immediately on our arrival this handsome young male charged over to greet us excitedly and soon had us in his embrace! It was a warm and friendly welcome by Prince who swam circles around us, belly up and eyes wide open before rolling back over and just about rubbing his back on our hull. It is remarkable to be part of such a special interaction with a wild Orca and have their trust and see their want to engage and interact with all our Pod Members onboard. It was clear that Prince and the family had recently completed a meal of Beaked Whale as the heavy oil slick was scattered far and wide with the rest of his family enjoying a Sunday morning rest.
Regrouping they then began to play and socialise together and it was wonderful to see members of Alki’s family in the mix as well, also responsible for the Beaked Whale predation and in the same content and happy mood of Queen and her family pod. Two consecutive Beaked Whale predations within twenty-four hours of each other is a very good amount of food for these two family pods and it was clear to see the flow on effect that this has with some very playful, energetic and relaxed Orca. Welcoming us into the fun we found ourselves completely surrounded by Prince and all the youngsters from Queen and Alki’s family who were very clear on it being playtime! Chasing, wrestling and dancing around us while checking our the GoPro was such a thrill to be part of and see the Orca having as much fun as all of our Pod Members onboard, what a special opportunity to be part of this very special family time with the Orca.
