A group of killer whales, known as orcas, amazed residents along B.C.’s Sunshine Coast when they swam close to the shore and engaged in a unique behavior of rubbing their bellies on the rocks. Ryan Chilibeck, a resident of Gibsons, rushed to Secret Beach Park after hearing about the orcas’ presence on January 2. He was fortunate to witness the spectacle and described it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The pod of orcas captivated onlookers on the beach as they swam back and forth just a few feet away from the shore for about 20 minutes. Identified as northern resident killer whales (NRKW) belonging to the A5 pod, the group consists of three different families, as confirmed by Jared Towers, the executive director of Bay Cetology.
This behavior of rubbing their bellies on the pebbles is a specialized and unique trait observed in only a few killer whale populations worldwide, according to Towers. The A5 pod specifically prefers the smooth rocks found along the Sunshine Coast for this activity, as they are familiar with these spots.
The act of rubbing their bellies against the rocks not only feels good for the whales but also aids in skin exfoliation. Towers explained that killer whales have active skin that constantly sheds, and this behavior might help expedite the exfoliation process for them.
Community members, like Chilibeck, who have a passion for orcas, rely on local Facebook groups to stay informed about whale sightings. Glenda Sewards, who manages one of these groups, aims to share these sightings so that everyone in the community can enjoy and appreciate these magnificent creatures.
The community’s enthusiasm for whale sightings, facilitated by platforms like Facebook groups, highlights the joy and excitement these encounters bring to residents. Sewards, who initiated the Facebook group over a decade ago, finds joy in seeing the community come together to celebrate and cherish these natural wonders.