Eyes On The Water: Marine Life Is Everywhere Right Now!
It’s been a busy spring for marine life sightings along the BC coast, with orcas, humpbacks, and dolphin sightings happening constantly right now!
We've even seen “Big Mama”, one of the Salish Sea’s most beloved whales, who is believed to be over 30 years old (this year she returned with her eighth known calf).
So who's out there?
Meet the Species
We’re lucky to have waters that are always home to marine life, but some visitors are seen at different times of year. Here’s who to look out for right now:
Orcas: Two distinct ecotypes of orca frequent BC waters: resident and Bigg’s (also known as transient) orcas. Residents primarily feed on salmon and travel in large, closely bonded family groups. Bigg’s orcas, by contrast, are marine mammal hunters. They move in smaller, more fluid groups and tend to be quieter and less predictable in their movements. Both types can be seen throughout the year, though resident orcas are more commonly spotted in late summer and autumn when salmon are most plentiful. While seeing them underwater is a longshot, a local diver did hear them nearby and catch it on video not so long ago.
Humpbacks: After disappearing from these waters for much of the 20th century, humpbacks have made a strong comeback in recent decades. Most migrate to tropical breeding grounds in winter and begin arriving in the Salish Sea in spring. Their dramatic breaches and tail slaps are a familiar sight to those who spend time on the water.
Pacific White-Sided Dolphins: Energetic and highly social, these dolphins are known for travelling in large groups and sometimes approaching boats. While less consistently present than orcas or humpbacks, they are increasingly being spotted near shore, as seen at Whytecliff and West Vancouver this spring
Harbour Porpoises: Often mistaken for dolphins, harbour porpoises are smaller and more reserved. They tend to travel alone or in small groups and are typically seen further offshore, though sightings in Howe Sound and Burrard Inlet are not uncommon.
Is This a Good Sign?
What's behind all the sightings? Some of it may come down to timing—spring is a period of transition, as animals return from migration or move through local waters in search of food. But there may also broader ecological shifts at play. The return of Big Mama, with her eighth calf, is a good example of how these ecosystems are showing signs of resilience.
The Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) has also noted a rise in confirmed sightings across the Salish Sea, suggesting this is not simply anecdotal—it is measurable. Still, experts continue to caution that many threats remain, from climate-driven changes to ship noise and pollution.
So… Will I Encounter Orcas While Diving?
If the ocean is teeming with whales and dolphins, that means we can dive with them right? Well, not really. Maybe though!
It certainly doesn't happen often. Most sightings happen at the surface, from boats or shore.
What you are more likely to notice underwater is the broader effect of their presence: healthy ecosystems, thriving fish populations, and a sense of balance in the sea.
Who knows, maybe you'll be the lucky one! Whether you're out for a dive or just looking out over the water, this is an excellent time of year to stay observant.
