SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — A rare pod of orcas was spotted near Point Loma on Wednesday, delighting local whale watchers. This group usually returns once or twice a year, and Friday could offer another chance to see them in the wild.
“It’s not every day orcas swim this close to San Diego’s shoreline,” said whale-watching guide Cpt. Kyle Hargrave.
On an earlier trip, he spotted the small pod just a few miles offshore.
“They only come about once or twice a year. Today they’re out here causing havoc and entertaining everyone,” Hargrave said.
Orcas don’t follow a fixed migration pattern. Instead, they move where food is most abundant, hunting seals, sea lions and dolphins along the coast. The type most often seen in the area are transient, or Bigg’s killer whales.
Whale watcher Vicky Bond said, “Seeing whales in the wild is incredible. It’s a way to enjoy animals without harming them, unlike at SeaWorld. Watching them in their natural habitat is amazing.”
Sightings usually peak in late summer and fall, when water temperatures change and prey move closer to shore. Scientists say early morning trips tomorrow may be the best chance to catch another glimpse.
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