Killer Whale foraging in The Patch it was today as from our arrival the apex predators were busy in search for breakfast but not before a big morning greetings! It was a lovely morning with a gentle cloud cover which was set to burn off throughout the day and as we moved over the continental shelf a lone Hammerhead Shark was relaxing at the surface and our first sighting for the day. It was only a couple of minutes later that the research vessel Shearwater was travelling just ahead with Queen and members of her family pod as they pushed out to the east. Excited to see us they swam straight over to our bow in a big morning greeting which was a perfect way to start our morning with the Orca. The day unfolded with plenty of foraging and travelling as they did grid work search patterns through the heart of The Patch.
It was fantastic to see little Noosabu keeping up with the family and looking strong as she travelled with Tarni and Stevie. A commotion unfolded as it appeared some food had been captured and was being shared. Flapper was sharing the meal with Wonks and Stormy as they both excitedly followed after her to secure their part of the meal. The family pod always ensures that everyone gets their share of the meal and both foraging and feeding is always a team effort. It was great to see the family working consistently in the hunting grounds today as they worked to secure a decent meal for the family pod. Queen and her family have been feeding well throughout this season and it is hard to believe there are only a few weeks left for Orca Season 2025! Our team is looking forward to the time we have left with the incredible Orca of Bremer Bay and watching as their hunting patterns begin to change as we move further through the autumn months and close in on winter.
