Greetings Cachalot Cacophony,

Today aboard the noontime whale watch we made for the Northwest Corner, a region of Stellwagen Bank I have only visited twice this season.  Captain Jeff guided the Aurora toward two blows produced by a couplet of subdued humpback whales.  These cetaceans were seemingly lulled by the calm Atlantic surface, and the clear seas permitted passengers to peer at the entirety of these entities.  These resting rorquals eventually started a series of synchronized dives lasting 3-6 minutes, revealing fluke patterns belonging to Sanchal and Samara!

Fish seeking refuge at Central Wharf.  Rich Dolan, BHC naturalist

Humpback whale drifting along our port side.  Rich Dolan, BHC naturalist

We soon plotted a course for the west to sight whales reported via the airwaves, but we joyfully diverted further north when we witnessed the cloudy signatures of more humpbacks!  Jeff placed our vessel alongside this second association, granting us more intimate looks of rostrums and flippers.  Mira was quick to identify Perseid by an enormous black fluke pattern, while I witnessed the splendor of Plateau for the first time.  My colleague observed that the individuals of each pair shared similarities in fluke coloration, a coincidence of purely aesthetic merit.

Sanchal.  Rich Dolan, BHC naturalist

Samara.  Rich Dolan, BHC naturalist

Plateau in an association with Perseid.  Rich Dolan, BHC naturalist

I have an affinity for expeditions where we combat frothy swells under swollen skies, but I also appreciate these days when the whales present themselves under pleasant conditions!

Peace and Love,

Rich