Today we spent most of our trips up north of San Juan Island exploring Spieden Island, Cactus Islands, Stuart Island, and the Canadian Gulf Islands. While no whales were spotted, we were treated to all of the other wonderful animals in the area.

This morning we watched as a Harbor Seal pup narrowly escaped the talons of a hungry Bald Eagle. It was one of those moments when we caught a glimpse of the everyday struggle for survival that occurs in the wild. Of course, we were all happy to see the Seal pup scurry into the water before the Eagle pounced on it. I am sure the Eagle felt otherwise.

On both trips we found a nice group of Dall’s Porpoises. These are amazing little creatures that we usually don’t get to see when we have whales around. They can swim at speed of up to 35 miles per hour and dive at depths of over 1000 ft. This morning they even came over and swam with them boat, which is one of the most incredible experiences you can have out here.

This afternoon we found Harbor Porpoises just about everywhere we looked. They are adorable little animals. The old mariners used to call them “Puffing Pigs” because of their distinctive puffing sound they make when they come up for air.

And, of course, Spieden Island was great today with several Mouflan Big Horn Rams out and lots of Eagles.