A pod of Bigg's killer whales captivated Seattle residents as they made a rare appearance in Elliott Bay. On Sunday, the pod was seen near Seattle's maritime industrial docks, sparking excitement among whale watchers. The whales, typically known for preying on marine mammals like sea lions and porpoises, displayed an unusual hunting behavior by capturing a bird, much to the amazement of onlookers.
The sighting of these majestic creatures in Seattle waters is not entirely uncommon, but their recent frequent visits have intrigued residents and visitors alike. The pod, which has ventured into the bay several times over the past month, was observed close to the shore, providing a unique spectacle for those gathered in the West Seattle neighborhood. Marine enthusiast Kersti Muul recorded footage of the whales, capturing their graceful movements just below a lookout point.
The extraordinary event reached its peak when one of the whales captured a bird, pulling it below the water. This unexpected behavior elicited gasps from the crowd, highlighting the rarity of such an occurrence. Typically, Bigg's killer whales focus their hunting efforts on marine animals, making this bird hunt an exceptional display.
"A once-in-a-lifetime experience for West Seattle. Not only in the whales’ proximity, but also witnessing a rarely seen behavior – chasing and catching the grebe," – Kersti Muul
As the pod eventually exited the bay near the West Seattle neighborhood, those who had been waiting eagerly to catch a glimpse were left in awe. The proximity of the whales to the shore offered a rare opportunity for whale watchers to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
"It’s definitely a bonding experience for the community," – Kersti Muul
The presence of the killer whales not only thrilled the onlookers but also fostered a sense of community among those who gathered to witness the rare event. People of all ages shared in the excitement and wonder, creating lasting memories and strengthening community ties.