SEATTLE — Killer whales drawn by winter salmon runs are cruising into central and south Puget Sound, providing a visual treat for those lucky enough to see them.
The orcas move fast and cover considerable distance in their endless quest for fish.
Winter salmon runs are small, but "enough for the whales," said research director Rich Osborne at the Whale Museum on San Juan Island north of Puget Sound, where the orcas spend more time and are seen more often.
The salmon now running are chum, coho or silver, and maybe chinook, he said.
Most of the sightings around Seattle involve J pod, which stays in Washington’s inland waters all winter, Osborne said. There are 22 whales in that family group.
Copyright ©2003 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
