09-20-2017: Humpback Whales and Lively Orcas, Nice Conditions

Moss Landing killer whales
A young killer whale breaches. Photo: Sack 09-20-2017.

We had reports early on of orcas just outside the harbor. So as soon as we left the harbor-mouth we made a course and headed to the orca action going on about ten-minutes out.

Moss Landing killer whales
More breaching. Photo: Sack

Turns out there were five of them picking off sea lions for most of the morning and into the early afternoon. And these were an active group. We had some really close swimbys.
Moss Landing Sea Lions
This is what it looks like when orcas attack a herd of sea lions from below. Photo: Sack

Including a couple of young ones breaching next to the boat. At one point two of the younger ones were doing double breaches together. A fantastic encounter.

They would approach a large raft of sea lions and cause a sea lion stampede pretty regularly.

Moss Landing Killer Whales

Moss Landing Sea Lion
Moss Landing Sea Lion

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