SEATTLE — A pod of orcas recently delighted spectators in Seattle by providing a rare display as they swam near the shore, showcasing an unusual hunting scene involving a bird. These apex predators, known as Bigg’s killer whales, were spotted in Elliott Bay, seemingly on a pursuit just beneath the surface, not far from Seattle’s maritime industrial docks. The whales eventually left the bay close to the West Seattle area, which is opposite downtown, where eager onlookers had gathered for a glimpse of these majestic creatures.
Kersti Muul, who operates “Salish Wildlife Watch” – a WhatsApp alert system for whale sightings specific to the Seattle area – was able to capture the moment on video as the orcas emerged below a popular observation point. Witnesses were captivated when one whale was observed catching a bird and pulling it underwater, eliciting gasps from the crowd.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for West Seattle,” Muul expressed via text. “The proximity of the whales and the extraordinary opportunity to see them catch a grebe is incredibly rare. I was torn between watching the community’s reactions and the orcas swimming right below us, visible beneath the water.”
Bigg’s killer whales, unlike their counterparts who feed on fish, are known to hunt marine mammals such as sea lions and porpoises. They occasionally navigate the waters surrounding Seattle, drawing attention from both dedicated enthusiasts and casual whale watchers. The pod seen on this occasion has made several appearances in Seattle’s waters in the past month.
Muul added, “It’s such a bonding moment for the local community, and I always hope that moments like these can spark a greater sense of wonder and awareness about the incredible urban wildlife we have right in our backyards.”
