Re: [Paddlewise] Orca diets

> There is a suggestion here that there are two types of orcas: the
>inshore group, which tends to be fish-eaters, and the offshore population,
>more likely to be flesh-eaters. But sea otters tend to be coastal critters,
>don't they? I wonder if the writing is on the wall for kayakers in waters
>where the blackfish swim...
>
>AMG
>Arthur M. Greene
>amg52_at_columbia.edu


Yes, here on the wes coast of Canada there are two types of orca, actually
three, one of which is so mysterious I forget the name -would have to look
in my notes. Can, when I find them! Very elusive group, mostly offshore.

If this is incorrect information, I am sure someone will get me up to speed:

Transients have a different range from the residents. There are two
resident groups, the northern resident group which ranges north of Campbell
River if I remember right, and a southern group, which ranges, uh, south of
CR. They have a separate language from the transients, who pretty much
range wherever they please and who do go offshore for extended periods.
When transients come through, the resident pods go silent. The residents
are normally quite chatty.  Transients are more succinct. The two groups,
residents and transients, do not mix socially. Transients eat mammals -
seals especially - pupping eason is a good time to find transients - and
residents eat fish.

What an interesting group of fellow travellers they are.

I saw that footage on the Discovery Channel some time ago too - it was wild
to see the big orca surf up on the beach and go after the seal. I think
that was in Chile.  Too bad Fred didn't have a video thingy with him. I
guess if it happened in Chile it could happen here. Watch out for those
dorsal fins approaching the beach and sit way back from sudden drop offs!

I'm surprised the whales just look at us. I'm always grateful that so far
this is all they've done.

Diane



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