Based on the windy conditions at the harbor the night before and the less than ideal ocean forecast, I think we were all a little surprised that the trip made the distance to the outer slope chum spot. Swells were rather steep and broken making for a bumpy start to the trip. However, conditions offshore settled a bit and the return trip (with the swell) was downright nice.


A good variety of species were encountered, though overall numbers were not especially high as might be expected at this time of year. Highlights included good numbers of Leaches Storm Petrels (43) and Black footed Albatross. A total of 134 Albatross was a good number considering no fishing boats were encountered on the route. As we approached the edge of Grays Canyon the activity picked up with numbers of Pink-footed and Sooty Shearwaters increasing and Albatross becoming more numerous.



A distant South Polar Skua (possibly only the 3rd May record) was seen by those in the bow, but unfortunately did not stick around or investigate the boat. Shortly after, a Tufted Puffin and Rhinoceros Auklet were sighted together on the water. As we approached the Auklet departed while a second Puffin circled the boat and dropped in to join the other on the water. Both were in striking breeding plumage and we enjoyed great views at close range. A third puffin was sighted on the water a short time later.



We continued to the deep chum spot on the outer slope a few miles beyond the outer canyon. We did not encounter our first Leaches Storm Petrels until a mile or so from our destination. It did not take long until they were outnumbering the more common Fork-tailed Storm Petrels. Conditions were ideal for laying out a chum slick with just the right amount of wind to carry the scent and disperse the slick. It did not take long before 30 to 40 Black-footed Albatross were around the boat and both species of storm petrel were working the slick. Only a few Northern Fulmar, Pink-footed and Sooty Shearwaters dropped by, and gulls were noticeable by their absence. Finally a single Sabines Gull stopped in briefly, our first for the trip and one of only two for the day.



The trip had conspicuously low numbers of gulls, Cassins Auklets (3), and Red-necked Phalarope (3). The lack of gulls and terns may help explain the complete absence of Jeagers.



Marine mammals put in a respectable showing with two groups of Orca providing reasonably good views. Pacific White-sided Dolphin and Dalls Porpoise showed up, but did not approach the boat. Several Northern Fur Seals were encountered offshore, while Stellers and California Sealions, and Harbor Seals were found inshore.



The nearshore zone provided more excitement. Just outside the harbor mouth we encountered a large mixed species feeding flock. We approached the flock to get close views of hand full of Pacific Loons on the water in striking breeding plumage. A breeding plumage Ancient Murrelet was a surprise and a couple of Marbled Murrelet were nice additions to the trip list. The elusive pelagic Collared Dove encountered not far offshore on the outbound leg, was possibly a first for Westport Seabirds.



Inside the harbor the activity continued. Black-legged Kittiwake, Pigeon Guillemot, and large numbers of Rhinocerous Auklets were among good numbers of species inside the harbor. A single Tattler was seen by some on the Jetty, and a lone Marbled Godwit was inside the boat basin.



Spotters for the trip were Scott Mills and Bill Shelmerdine. Skipper Phil Anderson and wife Chris handled the boat and ran the trip with their usual efficiency. It was a good trip and an enjoyable group. Thanks to all who helped make for an enjoyable day on the ocean. The next trip is scheduled for June 28, the rest of the schedule is posted to the Westport Seabirds Webpage. Hope to see you on the water this summer.



Bill Shelmerdine

Olympia WA