donderdag 17 april 2008

Transient killer whale hunt captured on film by researchers


Two researchers from the Center for Whale Research, Dave Ellifrit and Adam U., were out in a boat Wednesday when they encountered a group of seven transient killer whales near Edwards Point off the west side of San Juan Island.

They noticed some action in the distance, then observed a chase involving a Dall's porpoise and her calf, both of which probably got eaten. The whales then moved south of Eagle Point and took a harbor seal quite close to the two researchers, Adam reports.

For the first dramatic photos, go to the Center for Whale Research. Webmaster Kelley Balcomb-Bartok told me he hopes to post more photos once they get processed.

Speaking of the Center for Whale Research, you've got to check out the new "OrcaCam," which provides a clear view from the deck of the center. The most impressive feature is the ability for anyone to operate the camera -- pan and zoom -- with only an Internet connection and a browser with JAVA.

Please read the instructions carefully and practice if you have the intent of operating the camera when whales are present. Otherwise, I hope folks will give up control to someone else when whales are moving through the area.

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