By Half Blind Photography; from N. Malin’s FB Page

(CORRECTION:  According to Nan Malin, these photos were taken by “Half Blind Photography” and not by her as I posted earlier.)

We’ve made a couple of trips across the river in the last week and have kept our eyes peeled for a glimpse of the humpbacks. So far no luck, but we are headed south again today so maybe the third time will be the charm.

What we have seen on each of our recent trips, are cars are parked at Station Camp and at every available pull-out. Clots of people have been standing along the river, binoculars and cameras at the ready. The word is definitely out: Humpback whales in the river!

Photo by Half Blind Photography

Nan Malin had some spectacular photos on FaceBook (Seen here. Thanks, Nan!) and several friends have spoken of their “incredible luck” at seeing the whales near shore on the Washington side of the river downstream from the bridge. We talked with Kathleen Sayce about it last night and she, too, had seen them.

It’s not an unknown phenomena. The whales follow the food and, when ocean conditions are unfavorable, the fish come into the river and so do the humpbacks. So, seeing them is an indicator that things aren’t as they should be in the whale world, even though the nearby sightings are a plus for us.

From Coast Weekend

When I went online to see what the media is making of it all, I found the usual amazing array of “expert commentary” including the confusing remarks in a report by the Inquisitr, that “it is possible for a seal to use a whale as a surfing board in order to escape from attacking killer whales.” I’m not sure what that has to do with it but… there you have it. Reliable Roving Reporters on the Loose. Hmmm.

Most scientists, however, say the humpbacks are probably following a run of anchovies. A few years ago the headlines in California were all about “Feeding Frenzy in Monterey Bay” due to “an explosion of anchovies.” Now it looks like it’s our turn. Whatever the reason, travelers along the river have been treated to a close-up and personal look at these unusual visitors. I hope we luck out today.