Every memorable wildlife encounter has a beginning and this one started with a sound.
Late this afternoon, while at home in the South Sound, we heard the sharp, explosive exhalation of a whale somewhere beyond the shoreline. Well, to be honest, I first thought it was a seal. It seemed to be the more reasonable assumption. But no, it was that unmistakable whoosh, the sound of a powerful breath of something much bigger.
So we scanned the water and I grabbed my camera.
Within moments, dark dorsal fins appeared directly across from our vantage point. A pod of orcas was moving through the passage. It’s great when things work out so well.
It’s ironic, our usual clue of approaching orcas is a ping on my phone from a vigilant neighbor. This time, the orcas announced themselves and we, in turn, pinged our neighbors.
We are truly fortunate to have seen these visitors passing by.
