stories
Five days of noise and mess are behind us.
Our annual maintenance closure period is always action packed with tasks. This year was no exception. Instead of words, we’ll let the images speak to some of what took place. It’s a lot of work to look this good!
Islands in the Salish Sea: A Community Atlas recommended by Alison Watt, Artist
Summer!
The weather is better, the days are longer, we’re simply outside more. Summer is the perfect time to learn about nature and to DRAW nature.
There is endless beauty, diversity and inspiration in the Salish Sea. We polled the artists featured in our Drawing Connections: 40 Years of Art and Hope for the Salish Sea exhibit and our staff.
The question — what books would you recommend to get to know nature and for getting the creative juices flowing?
The Sea Among Us: The Amazing Strait of Georgia, Gordon McFarlane, Richard Beamish
Four Seasons by the Salish Sea, Carolyn Redl
A wonderful introduction to places to visit through the seasons.
The Salish Sea: Jewel of the Pacific Northwest, Audrey DeLella Benedict and Joseph K. Gaydos
This is also a nice introduction to the region.
Snorkelling Adventures Around Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands: The Ultimate Guide, Sara Ellison
Almost as good as getting in the water yourself, Sara's book will show you the beauty of the Salish Sea. With her beautiful photographs, she highlights the myriad of amazing invertebrates from tiny sea stars to the giant Pacific octopus plus a chapter on how to safely gear up and enter the water. Snorkelling is a recreational activity that helps promote a healthy Salish Sea.
Hope Matters, Elin Kelsey
This book was a huge source of inspiration for the Drawing Connections exhibit. It’s a great reminder that while there are many reasons to be concerned about our planet, there are many reasons to be hopeful.
It encourages us to celebrate the wins and find inspiration in how powerful our actions can be for positive change.
20 Ways to Draw a Jellyfish, Trina Dalziel
I often hear kids say they "don't know how to draw", so I like the idea of giving them inspiration and ideas they can choose from, to hopefully build their artistic confidence.
My personal favourite is the page about drawing crabs - the diversity of art reflects the diversity of local crab species!
The Creative License: Giving Yourself Permission to Be the Artist You Truly Are, Danny Gregory
“Creativity is something we are all born with, but somewhere along the way, we convince ourselves we don’t have the right to label ourselves as creative or artists. This book is my attempt to reverse that with a step-by-step process to reawaken the creative impulse in us all. It’s designed to be fun, easy, a little snarky, and addictive.“
Danny Gregory’s books (there are many!) are an easy way to spark your creativity. Simple tips motivate putting pen (or paint) to paper.
Get to know your Salish Sea this summer.
And maybe give yourself some creative license to be a little artful!
Sea lions: Aby Elwood
When I close my eyes and imagine the vibrant life within the Salish Sea, my mind often gravitates towards sea lions, whales, fish, and many other marine creatures. But a group of animals that doesn’t often get the spotlight is birds. There are so many birds! Think of seabirds gliding above the waves and shorebirds poking around the shores; there are year-round inhabitants and those that are migratory.
The Salish Sea has plenty to eat! The water and land here is rich in tasty treats like fish, invertebrates, plankton, and other snacks that keep birds' full. And the Salish Sea has a rich diversity of habitats, from lush forests to sandy beaches; there's a home for a wide variety of birds. This ecosystem is not only a good home for year-round residents, it is a very important place for migratory species. Migratory birds rely on their fat stores to give them the stamina to fly long distances, but these stores dramatically deplete the farther they migrate and they need to restore them quickly. The Salish Sea is food rich and is a great place for a traveling bird to stop and refuel on or after a long journey, and with a variety of spots to nest in, it's no wonder birds frequent this area!
Bald eagle foraging. Photo: Tina Kelly
Species like caribou, humpback whales, monarch butterflies, and a variety of animals travel from one region to another. This process is called migration. Billions of animals embark on these long journeys to seek better food sources, suitable breeding grounds, or to escape harsh seasonal conditions like cold winters, snow, and ice. Birds are no exception. There are more than 400 species of birds that migrate in Canada each year.
Permanent residents are birds that do not migrate, but stay in the same region year round. Some species have the anatomy to withstand the frigid temperatures, and around the Salish Sea, winter conditions are not as harsh as other areas of the province. Because of this, they can stay in one place where all their needs can be met, where they are able to find sufficient food sources and build safe and successful nesting habitats. Bald eagles, American crows, and mallard ducks are permanent residents.
Turkey vulture. Photo: Tina Kelly
Short-distance migrants are birds that need to move to a new region to get the resources they require during colder seasons. This group of birds include buffleheads, golden eagles, and brant geese. These birds breed in Canada, and migrate to temperate regions to overwinter in Southern Canada, the United States, or Northern Mexico. Fun fact: buffleheads breed in interior BC and spend winters in the Salish Sea; they return, almost like clockwork, on October 15.
Long-distance migrants are Western sandpipers, olive-sided flycatchers, and turkey vultures and they have to travel much farther to get to their winter homes. These species often migrate down to tropical areas in Southern Mexico, the West Indies, or South America.
Purple martin at Sidney Island nest box. Photo: Tina Kelly
In British Columbia, birds migrate southward, toward warmer regions, from August to October, to escape the cold and decreasing food availability. Then once springtime arrives, March to May, birds fly northward to nest, breed, and most importantly FEED! The local migratory pathway for many birds journeying through British Columbia is the Pacific Flyway. This is one of four major migration routes for birds in North America. It extends from Northern Alaska down to South America and it is estimated that roughly 1 billion birds migrate along the Pacific Flyway each spring and fall. Some common fliers along the flyway are golden eagles, fox sparrows, and purple martins.
Plastic pollution. Photo: Tina Kelly
Birds face challenges during their migration. Some of the negative impacts on these feathered friends are:
Window collisions: If you read April’s Salish Sea Stories, you might already be aware window collisions are a major threat to birds. In Canada, 16 to 42 million birds are killed by window collisions each year, and more are injured by window crashes. Migratory birds are no exception.
Habitat degradation: The loss of habitat is one of the largest challenges for resident and migratory species. Urban developments and overall human interruption to ecosystems results in limited space for birds to nest and find shelter. This impacts both survival and reproduction. Not to mention, more infrastructure also increases potential for window strikes.
Plastic pollution: Plastic has negative impacts on many organisms, but poses a significant risk for birds. Tiny pieces of plastic can be mistaken as food. Shorebirds, like sandpipers, mistake microplastics as smaller crustaceans or fish eggs. This fills their stomach with indigestible material, leading them to become very sick or starve.
Bird feeder
Bird feeders can help ensure animals are refueled for traveling long distances. Filling your feeders with high-calorie ingredients, like sunflower seeds, will be extra beneficial. Sunflower seeds are one of the best foods for birds as they have a high fat content, are easily metabolized, and quickly turned into energy. Red millets, oats and flax are often used as fillers in bird seed mixes, and are commonly avoided by most birds. Stick to a seed mix that contains less filler foods, and a higher sunflower seed content. Here is a quick guide on bird seed.
It is up for debate whether bird feeders are good for birds. They can harbour disease if not cared for correctly. Cleaning your feeder every two weeks, as well as the area around it, is recommended to help decrease the risk of infecting birds. Another way to decrease contamination is to keep 2-3 days worth of food in the feeder at a time. When certain foods are ignored for long periods, like filler ingredients, it leads to bacteria and fungal growth. Here is more information on how to keep a healthy bird feeder.
Turning your lights out at night is an easy and effective way to help. The majority of birds, such as sparrows, thrushes, and flycatchers, migrate during the night, and excessive lighting can be confusing and cause them to veer off path. From March to May and August to October, peak migration seasons, turning lights out between 11pm - 6am will support these travelers!
Anti-strike modifications to windows are proven to be very effective at limiting collisions. Adding high visibility decals, mesh screens, or even soap residue reduce the reflectiveness of the glass and make the window more visible to birds. The BCSPCA has a good resource on how to limit window collisions.
Community science is a great way to have a positive contribution. Residents around the province, and anywhere, can input their bird observations into iNaturalist. iNaturalist is a website and mobile application where anyone can record and share what they find in nature — plants, insects, birds, and more. This provides scientists with access to a large volume of data and can help them gain a greater understanding of animal behavior, migratory patterns, and ways to protect species. Get started with iNaturalist.
Quick recap — the Salish Sea is for the birds!
We’re celebrating World Migratory Bird Day, May 11 with hands-on learning opportunities.
by Aby Elwood, Educator
Oregon grape. Photo: Tina Kelly
What does the start of springtime feel like to you? Is it when the sun peeks through the curtains a little earlier? Is it when you hear bees buzzing? Or is it when colourful flowers begin to pop up everywhere you look? For me, the start of spring is when I wake up to the cheerful chirping of birds outside my window.
Mergansers
Spring is the season of new beginnings. Trees grow new leaves, flowers bloom, some animals wake up from their long winter nap, and new life begins. Spring is an especially important season for birds. It is a time of year when it is easier to notice their presence. Many species, such as golden eagles, varied thrush, and Western sandpipers, travel northward returning from spending winter down South. Upon returning from their long journey, they spend time finding food and finding a mate. As the weather warms food, like nectar, berries, seeds, and insects, are more readily available, making birds appear more active than in the winter months.
Gull. Photo: Bob Orchard
For most bird species, spring is also when they begin building or repairing their nests. The reason you hear so many birds vocalizing in spring is because they are using their songs to find a mate. Many birds also use their colouration or other physical attributes or displays to lure a mate.
Cormorant. Photo: Bob Orchard
British Columbia is home to an abundance of bird species. Birds can be spotted out your window, in your yard, in a local park, and from the street. Among the recognizable, common birds are crows, gulls, and bald eagles. Among the less recognizable are smaller species, such as sparrows, chickadees, and wrens. They can be spotted flying between trees and bushes. Larger predatory birds, like vultures, owls, and hawks perch on street lights, sit on the branches and glide above you.
Spot birds on beaches and on the water. These include sandpipers, cormorants, and different species of ducks. The next time you are at the beach, out in the community, or even looking out your window, take a moment to search for a bird you’ve never seen before.
Birdwatching is one of my hobbies and is my favourite springtime activity. The Salish Sea has a large diversity of birds, and I encourage experiencing them for yourselves. It’s important we are “tweeting” our feathered friends with respect. Here are my tips to be a respectful birdwatcher.
Barred owl. Photo: Aby Elwood
Keep quiet. Noise is one of the biggest disturbances for wildlife. When you are looking for birds, keep your voice low. If voices and noises are too loud, birds will flee the area, forcing them to use energy unnecessarily. And you won’t have birds to admire!
Keep your distance. Getting too close to a bird can cause agitation and force them to modify their behaviour. Keep an appropriate distance between yourself and the animal you are looking at. Bird nests should always be viewed from a distance, as parents and chicks are particularly sensitive to disturbance. Binoculars are a great tool to use for admiring birds and nests.
Stay on designated trails. Trails are meant to be walked on, but the surrounding vegetation is not. Sticking to designated trails is an easy way to respect the ecosystem and avoid disrupting habitats. Keeping your dogs on the trails, and on leash, is another way to minimize an impact on birds and other animals.
Look for clues. Birds can be hard to find but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Look for clues that a bird is nearby. You might see a bird's nest in a tree, or you find evidence of their foraging behaviour, like woodpecker holes. Listen for calls and songs. Bird calls are unique to a species and you can learn to identify a species without even seeing it.
Leave human food for humans. Don’t bait or feed birds with food from home. They have evolved to eat specific foods and other foods can have a negative impact.
House sparrow. Photo: Aby Elwood
Here are a few more ideas on how to appreciate the joy of springtime.
Bees on lavender. Photo: Aby Elwood
Go for a walk. Go outside and look for signs of spring. Take a walk in an area you haven’t explored before. The CRD has guided nature walks.
Create a nature journal. Draw pictures and/or make notes to record your nature observations.
Take up gardening. Gardening is a great way to get outside and learn about the life cycle of a plant. This can be a fun activity for adults and children.
Appreciate pollinators. Pollinators, like bees and butterflies, are key to maintaining healthy ecosystems. Planting native wildflowers is a great way to attract pollinators and watch them do their magic.
Make your windows safe for birds. Birds can be confused by reflections in glass, causing them flying into windows. Adding netting or a screen on the outside of a window is effective for preventing collisions. If you want to get creative, adding tempura paint, stickers, decals, and even sticky notes onto your windows (in an evenly spaced, grid-like pattern) are good ways of preventing window strikes.
From birds to blossoming flowers and buzzing bees, there are so many ways to get out and familiarize yourself with what nature has to offer in the spring. Hope you get to truly experience SPRING!
To learn more about birds, visit our new feature exhibition, Drawing Connections: 40 Years of Art and Hope for the Salish Sea.
by Aby Elwood, Educator
Water is everywhere. Watersheds are everywhere too.
Did you know that we all live in a watershed? Regardless of how far we are from a body of water, we’re IN a watershed and our everyday choices have an impact, on everything from water quality to ecosystem health. Come along and learn about their significance and understand the direct link between our actions and watershed health.
What is a watershed?
Think of it as a giant drainage system. A watershed is an area of land where freshwater, whether from rain, snowmelt, or other sources, drains into a common body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean. It's an expanse of land where all of the precipitation eventually flows into a common exit point. Watersheds vary in size, ranging from small creeks to large river basins that encompass multiple smaller branches flowing into a larger main stream. On the next rainy day, think about each raindrop going on a watershed adventure.
Why are watersheds important?
Watersheds perform a range of crucial functions that are vital to our lives and our ecosystems. Their functions are especially important to surrounding oceans, as all the water from watersheds drains into the ocean. Healthy watersheds support biodiversity, creating habitats for a variety of plant and animal species. Watersheds also act as nature's own filtration system. They influence the water quality of rivers, lakes, and oceans by filtering out pollutants and sediments. Watersheds improve water quality, allowing us and other organisms to have clean water for drinking and other purposes. Beyond their role as water purifiers, watersheds also function as natural reservoirs, capturing excess water during rainy weather. This ensures a steady supply of freshwater, including what we drink!
“Did you know our drinking water comes from a watershed? The Sooke Lake Reservoir is the primary water supply for the Greater Victoria area. ”
Watersheds are very important for flood control. During heavy rainfall, watersheds act like sponges and absorb surplus water, reducing the risk of damage caused by floods.
How are watersheds impacted?
Human activities have significant impacts on a watershed. Cities, factories, farms, and other developments, are all sources of pollutants. Water runoff from urban, industrial, or agricultural areas carry contaminants (chemicals, fertilizers, heavy metals, etc.) into waterways. Storm drains, found along roadways, and household drainage systems can carry large volumes of pollutants directly into the water systems, impacting the water quality of oceans and other water reservoirs.
Urbanization diminishes the amount of permeable land, reducing space for water absorption. Climate change compounds negative effects on watersheds as it alters precipitation patterns and increases the frequency and severity of floods. Removal of trees further impacts watersheds. The lack of trees reduces water uptake through tree roots and increases surface runoff. Not only that, but deforestation leads to habitat destruction and reduces the overall biodiversity of an ecosystem.
What can we do to conserve & protect watersheds?
Each and every time we turn on a tap, hike in the woods, or drive our cars, we're part of a grander scheme. Simple tasks we do in our day-to-day lives have much larger, cumulative impacts on the nature surrounding us. It can be overwhelming learning about the negative impacts we impart on our environment. The good news is there is hope through action!
Here is a short list of what I am working on to do my part in keeping our watersheds healthy:
Use less water! Turn off the water when we aren’t using it, lessen the amount we use for daily tasks, and quickly fixing leaky pipes are ways of conserving water. I’m working on taking shorter showers!
Cleaning! Every drain enters a watershed; what we put down each and every drain matters. Household cleaners contain a variety of different ingredients, some good and some not so good. To avoid adding harsh chemicals to the environment, I have started to replace some of the harsh cleaners with more natural products.
Drive less! This past year, I reduced the amount of driving I do, instead I have incorporated other modes of transportation, including commuting to work by bus. Vehicles produce pollution (oil and gas run off) making its way into our ocean. If it works for your lifestyle, public transportation, carpooling, and cycling are great ways to reduce pollutant impacts on our waterways.
(Fun Fact: Six members of our small staff team use public transit to commute to work.)
If you are looking for more ideas, my colleagues shared the following actions:
Shovel the driveway instead of adding salt, or other chemicals, to melt snow and ice.
Use a drain snake to clean pipes or clear blockages instead of using chemicals that contaminate the water.
Collect rainwater to hydrate your indoor plants.
Plant native plants! They require little to no watering, they do not require fertilizers, they create habitats for local organisms, and they help manage water runoff.
Small positive actions or good habits we adopt contribute to the protection of watersheds, the ocean, and surrounding ecosystems. For more ways to have a positive impact on your local watershed, the Capital Regional District (CRD) provides great information on taking action!
There you have it — watersheds are important and we need to protect them!
Learn about watershed inhabitants and watershed health through watershed-themed activities, games and crafts presented by our Educators and special guests — CRD Parks and Gorge Waterway Action Society.
Drop-in. No additional fee.
It’s time to reflect on 2023. This year was filled with many exciting events, some new, and some old, returning from pre-pandemic days.
After a three year hiatus, our summer camps returned! This past summer we welcomed back Barnacle Buddies and Salish Sea School. I was lucky to be a camp leader, and can say, from personal experience, that it was a VERY fun summer. Campers explored rocky shores and sandy beaches, all while learning about the species spotted. They dissected squids and toured behind the scenes where Aquarists shared how they care for the animal ambassadors. One of MY favourite parts of camp was the boat trips. Salish Sea Schoolers explored both Sidney Spit and Portland Island. We spotted so much diversity on those trips, and I experienced many species I had never seen before!
A parent had this to share about their child’s camp experience:
“Our little one had a great time getting to know our local beach creatures better!
He came home thrilled to share his new knowledge and marine-themed crafts!”
Here’s to summer 2024 when campers will once again go home with pockets of sea glass.
Summer campers weren’t the only ones who got a peek behind the scenes. In July, our Behind-the-Scenes Tours returned. For an additional fee, visitors can learn how our water system works, discover the menu on offer to the animals (and their favourite foods!) and observe the animals from a different perspective. During the camp tour, my highlight was seeing the variety of foods on offer to the animals includling plankton, clams, and squid. For the campers, getting to sniff the smelly algae paste, seemed to be a highlight and got many of them giggling.
Taking a look behind the scenes is a unique experience; it gives you a different perspective on how our animal ambassadors are cared for and how an aquarium functions. I highly recommend it!
*Tour information.
October 15 was the one year anniversary of Seaweeds: Mystery of the Amber Forest.
The star of this exhibit is Josie Iselin’s artwork. There are also interactive components — seaweed trivia, a kelp forest floor puzzle, an ocean felt board and Find the Fish by The Marine Detective. Based on our very loved and worn out books, the exhibit’s book nook is popular!
Did you know that seaweed, or derivatives from algae, is an ingredient in many foods and household products? Even ice cream! The last day to visit Seaweeds: Mystery of the Amber Forest is January 7.
New exhibit opening late February.
A staff favourite, Tot Tuesday, returned in January. Tuesdays at 10:30am, our Learning Team facilitates a 45 minute educational program for preschool aged children. Every week a new topic is taught through stories, play, and craft. One of my favourite themes was Bears! Oh My! Tots foraged like a bear, collecting berries, plants, salmon, etc., and added the foods to the bears they crafted. We explored scat science and learned how poop helps us understand what an animal eats. Tot Tuesday is bear-y fun and definitely one of the highlights of my week. This program is currently on a brief break but we will see you again on January 23, when we’ll learn all about turtles.
In October, a herring exhibit swam into the building. This exhibit brought several new elements to our main gallery, all to highlight the importance of Pacific herring. Yay, a new video for our trio of large screens, Herring: The Pulse of the Pacific. A herring bait ball model is now hanging from the ceiling, and a sound dome featuring herring farts. Yes, you read that right! Herring communicate with farts. Have you heard these cute toots?
We cannot forget one of our most exciting initiatives of the year, Salish Sea Idol, our first-ever online fundraising campaign. Three of our most popular animal ambassadors were chosen to be a part of this year's campaign — the intelligent octopus, magnificent wolf eel, and adorable nudibranch. Through donations, contributors voted for their favourite. When voting ended, the octopus came out on top as the winner with a whopping 53 votes and $6,400 dollars. In total, $14,650 was raised, just shy of our goal of $15,000. Thank you so much to everyone who supported this fundraiser.
Wow! New exhibits, returning programs, and a successful fundraiser. What a year! And there is more. Another standout moment of 2023 was a successful animal surgery.
If you’ve visited before, you may know Leon, a yelloweye rockfish. When Leon experienced an injury, resulting in damage and the loss of the lens in his right eye, experts decided it was best to remove the eye. This would avoid further damage and improve his quality of life. In September, Leon underwent a complex eye surgery, a new and exciting challenge for our Animal Care Team. Veterinarian, Dr. Chou, conducted the 50-minute surgery, while Kit, Head of Animal Care, administered anesthetic and medications. The procedure required Leon to be out of the water so they continuously sprayed him with sea water to maintain his slime coat, and water was pumped past his gills for oxygenation. After two weeks of antibiotic baths, pain medication, and care from our team and Dr. Chou, Leon recovered and now is back to his usual lovable self! This one-eyed fella lives in our Sandy Bottom habitat.
As you can see, 2023 was one amazing year and we could not have done it without the incredible support of our visitors, the community, and our dedicated volunteers. We can’t wait to see what 2024 brings.
Meet TANNER — our newest octopus ambassador!
Tanner, a giant Pacific octopus, is named in honor of someone with a strong sense of community and who was close to our aquarium family, Clive Tanner.
Clive’s energy, vision and constant commitment to helping people and improving the communities he lived in, led him to get involved in the creation of the aquarium. We are thrilled to honour this incredible man by having an octopus namesake.
Angus Matthews, the Centre's founding Executive Director, reflects on Clive’s connection to the Centre, “Octopus have three hearts. Clive Tanner, founding board member and catalyst for the creation of Sidney’s Shaw Centre, had such a remarkable heart for his community - it would take three hearts to match his commitment. It is so appropriate to remember Clive in this way. We miss him.”
More about this octopus:
Tanner arrived at the Centre November 8.
Upon arrival Tanner weighed 6lb/2.7kg.
Tanner will reside at our Centre for roughly 6 months and then be returned to the sea.*
*.The Centre’s octopus ambassador program takes many factors into account — giant Pacific octopuses grow incredibly large (and fast), have a short lifespan of 3-5 years and reproduce only once at the end of their life cycle. All of these elements contribute to why the Centre limits each octopus to approximately six months in residence.
Typically our animal care team release our octopus in the vicinity where they were found. Some time is spent observing from a distance as the octopus reacquaint themselves with their environment. Cinematographer John Roney filmed the animal care team releasing Henry, who was our resident Octopus at the Centre from June 2020-Dec 2020.
Cinematographer John Roney filmed the Centre’s animal care team releasing Henry, who was our resident Octopus at the Centre from June 2020-Dec 2020.
by Aby Elwood, Educator
School of Pacific herring. Photo: Tina Kelly
Did you know that small, pelagic, schooling fishes, such as Pacific herring, are some of the most important animals found in the Salish Sea? I like to think of them as an energy source for the Salish Sea ecosystem. They get their name from being a key food source for so many marine creatures. Come along with me and learn more about the small, silvery sources of sustenance in the Salish Sea. (Say that ten times fast!)
What is a forage fish?
Forage fish, also known as prey or bait fish, is a term used to describe aquatic species that are an important and nutritious food source for a variety of upper-level predators. These fishes are generally silver in colour, very small in size, and travel in large schools in the pelagic zone of the ocean. Some local forage fishes are Pacific herring, Pacific sand lance, northern anchovy, and surf smelt. The term “forage fish”, however, does not only apply to true fish species. Other animals such as squid and shrimp are considered forage fish, as they also play a significant role of prey for many ocean predators.
Cormorant. Photo: Bob Orchard
Why are forage fish important?
Ocean animals are all connected by predator-prey interactions and this creates the food web. Forage fish are a key component of the marine food web because they are prey to many different animals like whales, pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), salmon, seabirds, and more. Forage fish transfer the energy they obtain from eating plankton to the upper level predators .
In the Salish Sea, forage fish are important prey for Chinook salmon. Without them, Chinook salmon populations are at risk of further decline, resulting in less food available for Chinook lovers including the endangered Southern resident killer whales. Abundance of forage fish is critical for maintaining healthy ecosystems and without them, negative effects will cascade through the food web.
Not only do animals rely on forage fishes, but humans do too. Forage fish are extremely important to Indigenous communities. They eat the fish as well as the eggs that are deposited in coastal habitats. Coast Salish peoples depend heavily on salmon as a part of their diet and culture.
Spawning!
Herring, sand lance, surf smelt, and other forage fishes rely on shallow, coastal habitats for spawning. Surf smelt and Pacific sand lance spawn in the intertidal zone of sandy beaches, primarily in areas with overhanging vegetation where the shade protects the eggs from the sun. There is uncertainty surrounding Northern anchovy spawning locations, but observations suggest they move into coastal bays and inlets to spawn.
Pacific herring move into intertidal and subtidal zones to spawn, laying their eggs on eelgrass, seaweeds, and other structures to await fertilization. This species is known for creating quite the spectacle during their spawning season as the male herring’s milt turns the water a beautiful turquoise colour and the abundance of fish draws in a variety of predators looking for a snack. The peak spawning season is different for each species, and also depends on the latitude/location. Here in the Salish Sea, some forage fish spawn in winter months (surf smelt and sand lance), and others spawn in the early spring (herring and anchovy).
Pacific herring eggs on sea lettuce. Photo: Tina Kelly
School of Pacific herring. Photo: Jackie Hildering, The Marine Detective
Threats to forage fish
Natural fluctuations in numbers of forage fish are common. Abundances of forage fishes can change each year due to natural occurrences and environmental changes. However, forage fish abundance can be and has been heavily impacted by a variety of unnatural factors. Overfishing is a common threat to forage fish. They are sought out as fish meal or bait and often overharvested. Another factor leading to a decrease in abundances is climate change. Changes in climate affect the food availability and reproductive success of forage fish. Urbanization and human development along shorelines is decreasing the water quality and sediment availability needed to produce successful offspring. This ultimately leads to habitat degradation and a decline in available spawning grounds. Overall, anthropogenic activity is having a negative impact on forage fish abundances, which not only impacts the species of fish themselves but also the plethora of animals that rely on them.
There you have it! A little dive into the understanding of forage fish, their impact on our oceans, and our impact on them.
To learn more about Pacific herring:
-Visit our newest display on Pacific herring
-Read The Marine Detective’s blog Marine Murmuration – Pacific Herring
By Aby Elwood, Educator
This month, on October 8, we will be celebrating World Octopus Day in honour of our octopus ambassadors, past and present! There is no hiding that the giant Pacific octopus is a fan-favourite, so we thought what better way to celebrate these sensational cephalopods than by sharing some of our favourite facts! Here are eight things to know about these intelligent creatures living in the Salish Sea.
The GIANT Pacific Octopus
During the octopus ambassador's time in our Centre, they are usually quite small. But don’t be fooled; this species isn’t called giant for no reason! These animals can reach an enormous size of roughly 9 meters from the end of one arm to the tip of the opposite one, and can weigh up to 20 kilograms!
Blue Blood & Three Hearts
Did you know that all of an octopus's organs are located in their “head”? The mantle is the bulbous, head-like part of the octopus found above their eyes! Within this area are an octopus's three hearts!! Two of these hearts are used for pumping blood to the gills to be oxygenated, and the third is used to pump the oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. We also can’t forget that they have blue blood! This is because the protein in their blood, which carries the oxygen, contains copper instead of iron, giving it a blue colour instead of red like our blood.
Brains, Brains, and More Brains!
If three hearts didn’t impress you, how about nine brains? The giant Pacific octopus has one larger brain in its mantle, used for overall control of the organism. The remaining eight brains are small bundles of nerve cells found at the base of each arm and they are used for control of individual arms. This allows each arm to work independently from one another. This could explain why octopuses are extremely intelligent. Did you know that they are capable of opening jars and are known to be excellent escape artists?
Dedicated Mother
The life span of the giant Pacific octopus is surprisingly short, only living for 3-5 years. However, the end of a female octopus's life is completely dedicated to creating new life. A female octopus can lay roughly 78,000 eggs. The eggs are laid in a rocky den, and during the incubation period (roughly 6-9 months) the mother rarely leaves the den, making sure her eggs are clean and aerated till they hatch. During the incubation period, the mother does not forage for food and slowly starts to deteriorate, this results in the mother dying shortly after her eggs hatch. The giant Pacific octopus makes one great sacrifice to create the next generation of octopuses.
Shell-less Mollusc
The giant Pacific octopus is categorized in Phylum Mollusca; it is related to other animals such as snails and clams. They have calcareous shell but, the octopus does not have a hard outer shell or any shell at all. The only hard part found within the octopus is a chitinous beak, which is used to eat their prey! Their small beak and soft body allows them to fit in the tiniest of spaces. As long as it is bigger than their beak, they can fit!
Venom!
Octopuses use their eight arms and strong suckers to capture their prey and guide it to their mouth. An octopus’s mouth contains a very sharp beak that is used to puncture and tear at their prey. The beak is the dark spot found on the underside of the octopus in the photo on the right. Not only is the beak extremely sharp, it also contains venom. This venom can be very useful when hunting for a meal, as their beak injects the venom into the prey, limiting its movement. This special adaptation allows the octopus to feed on species like crabs without the risk of getting pinched! (Not to worry, this venom has very little effect on humans.)
Messy Eaters!
This carnivorous species enjoys a diet consisting of clams, shrimp, fish and crabs. Here in the aquarium, our octopus's favourite food is red rock crabs. After a yummy meal, the giant Pacific octopus will have a long nap, lasting from 1-2 days. They do not clean up after themselves, instead they leave the shells or exoskeletons of their prey in a heap outside their den. This pile of prey leftovers is called an Octopus's Garden. Keep your eyes out — our octopus ambassador leaves food scraps for you to find!
Did you know that the giant Pacific octopus can change their texture and their colour? They have special cells in their skin called chromatophores. These are specialized pigment cells that allow them to alter their colour and blend in with the surrounding environment. Instead of using a hard shell to protect themselves, they have this stunning ability to camouflage their bodies to hide from hungry predators.
There you have it. Beaks, brains, blue blood, and more! You have learned so much about what makes the giant Pacific octopuses so spectacular. Now you can share all your new knowledge with your friends and family. If you haven’t already, stop by the aquarium to meet our current octopus ambassador, Nanami. Her name means ‘seven seas’ in Japanese, and she has 7.25 arms instead of 8!
by Quinn McAleer, Assistant Camp Leader
It has been a special, full circle summer for me at the Centre. I was a summer camper for seven years (2012 - 2018) and my week of Salish Sea School was always something I looked forward to. This summer, I was the Assistant Camp Leader and loved being able to pass on my Salish Sea School experiences to this year’s campers.
Here are my top eight favourite finds of camp through the years, including THIS year!
2013 — Red Sea Cucumber
I was always excited to turn over a rock and find a hidden sea cucumber! Red sea cucumbers were one of my favorite low-tide finds, especially when I could see their bright orange feeding tentacles extended into the water to catch plankton. These reddish or pinkish brown sea cucumbers range in length from 10 to 25 cm and are found on rocky shorelines, living between rocks and in crevices.
Six-rayed Star
2014 — Six-rayed Star
Exploring Glass Beach has always been one of my favorite camp activities because I could find six-rayed stars! This species’ large variation of colors and patterns fascinated me, and I loved finding some individuals smaller than my fingernail. Six-rayed stars only grow to about 9 cm and can be numerous in the intertidal zones of rocky shores. They are unique in that, unlike most other sea stars, they brood their eggs and young. The female forms a cup-shaped brooding area under her body in which she cleans and tends to her eggs.
Horse Clam
2016 — Horse Clam
Digging for horse clams on Sidney Island is one of my favorite memories of Salish Sea School and one that I hoped to share with the campers this summer. I was always amazed to find a clam as big as my head or foot buried under the sand! Horse clams have an oval shell that can be up to eight inches long, and they can weigh 3-4 lbs. Their siphon extends from a wide hole in their shell and has two openings at the end — an inhalant siphon, used to take in water containing oxygen and plankton, and an exhalant siphon, used to expel waste water from the clam. Horse clams are not able to fully retract their siphon into their shell. (Clams were always returned to their place in the sand.)
2017 — Juvenile Red Rock Crab
I never would have guessed that this animal (see image below) would grow up to be one of my favorite crab species: a red rock crab! It was surprising to me how the diverse coloration of juvenile red rock crabs is so different from adults; they can be striped, spotted, etc. Adult red rock crabs have a red, wide, smooth carapace and large claws with distinctive black tips. They often shelter in rocks or bury into the sand to avoid predators such as river otters, large fish and octopuses.
Juvenile Red Rock Crab
Sea Lemon
2018 — Sea Lemon
Ocean Advocates summer camp provided me with the unique opportunity to visit the Indigenous sea garden on Russell Island, where we found numerous marine animals, my favorite being a bright yellow sea lemon! I felt fortunate to be able to witness the ancient clam beds and learn some of the ways in which Coast Salish people managed their land and resources. It was also interesting to learn about the efforts of Parks Canada, in partnership with the WSÁNEĆ Nations, to restore these historic sea gardens in the Salish Sea and recover traditional knowledge about them and their inhabitants. It was a very special summer camp experience!
Russell Island Sea Garden
Clown Nudibranch
2023 — Clown Nudibranch
Portland Island is always a highlight of Salish Sea School, and this summer was no exception. We were so happy to find a clown nudibranch under a rock at low tide, which I had never seen before! This distinctive nudibranch is white to pale yellow in color and has vibrant orange spots. These bright colors warn predators that the nudibranch is toxic and would not be a good meal. Clown nudibranchs live in rocky areas of intertidal zones and primarily feed on bryozoans.
2023 — Hairy Lithodid Crab
We were stumped when we came across this mysterious crab on Portland Island and learned, with the help of an ID guide, that it was a hairy lithodid crab! I had never experienced this crab before and was excited to find a new-to-me species. This crab’s carapace, claws and legs are covered in spines and hair, giving it a bristly appearance. It is found under rocks and in crevices and is omnivorous, feeding on other animals or on algae.
Bubble Snail Eggs
2023 — Bubble Snail
We found so many bubble snails on Sidney Island this year, as well as their yellow, ribbon-like eggs. I enjoyed introducing campers to this fascinating animal that has characteristics of both a nudibranch and a snail! Bubble snails have small, thin shells that often do not cover their entire body and can burrow through the sand using their large heads, called headshields. They are typically found in mudflats and eelgrass meadows, and move to shallow waters in July and August to lay their eggs.
These are just eight of many fascinating creatures I’ve seen during my years of summer camp here. I’ll always be grateful for the experiences I’ve had and the knowledge I’ve gained about life in the Salish Sea!
by Kayley Johns, Summer Educator
As the summer comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on my time at the Centre, thinking about where I started to where I have come. When I first started as an Educator, I knew only a little about the Salish Sea and its inhabitants. Four months later, I have gained a wealth of knowledge as well as developed a greater appreciation for our ocean and the wonderful, diverse creatures that live within it. Working as an Educator has allowed me to meet incredible sea creatures while also getting to work with so many wonderful staff and volunteers. All of these opportunities have further deepened my curiosity and passion for all things ocean-related.
Pacific Spiny Lumpsucker
If there is one thing I take away from this summer, it’s that having just one favourite sea creature is impossible. As I have interacted with and learned more about the animals in the Salish Sea, I have learned about how unique and important each and every animal is, which has further deepened my love and appreciation for all ocean life (though rockweed isopods give me a fright!). If I did pick a few animals from my very long list of favourites, I would mention the Pacific spiny lumpsucker. Through their unique evolution and tiny size this adorable fish has won the hearts of many, including me. Another animal on the list is the giant Pacific octopus. Meeting Storm (our previous octopus ambassador) and our current octopus (which is still to be named) is one of the most memorable experiences; observing each octopus and their own personalities from our cool, calm Storm to our new feisty seven (and ½) armed octopus was certainly unique.
Giant Pacific Octopus
Not only was I able to meet so many fantastic sea creatures but I was also able to work with and meet so many wonderful people during this summer. Our summer was jam packed with so many exciting events and programs including summer camps, World Ocean Day, Canada Day parade, low tide explorations and more. Working with a diverse team I was able to learn so much and be a part of a supportive work and learning environment, including the volunteers whose unique questions helped me learn. I found so much joy from getting to share my own passion and knowledge with those who were just as interested about our ocean. I also had the opportunity to meet amazing visitors from all over the world. Seeing the passion for learning from all ages taught me so much about the importance of community building.
During these past four months, I have come to understand the important biodiverse ecosystem that is the Salish Sea. I not only gained knowledge from coworkers and volunteers, I had the opportunity to research various topics of personal interest. Leaving work each day, I knew I had learned at least one new thing.
No matter how many times you visit, there is always something new to learn or experience at the Centre. My own passion for the ocean and marine conservation grows every day. As I move on to start my next chapter, I am motivated by all of my new knowledge and understanding. While my time here was short, I know that I will never forget all of the memories and people I got to meet. I am very grateful for everyone that I have met and worked with during my time here and so happy to have had the opportunity to spend my summer in such a special place.
by Kayley Johns
On a recent shift, I received a curious question from one of our volunteers, “What are those white things on the kelp, I have seen them everywhere lately… is it hurting the kelp like a parasite?”
While I knew the organism in question was a bryozoan, I was stumped to provide any further information about these animals. This sparked a deep dive to learn all about these tiny animals and to delve even further into the world of colony-forming animals. Here I will share my new understanding of some of the interconnected microscopic worlds living in the Salish Sea.
Colony-forming Organisms
Colony-forming organisms are described as groups of individuals that work closely together to form a larger group and are otherwise unable to live on their own. These individuals, known as zooids, connect to each other through tissue or skeleton to form one larger organism. These zooids can be all one type of identical organism or they can have different specialized forms and functions to complete specific roles within the colony. Coral reefs are a well known example of these colony-forming animals as they are composed of thousands of individual animals, called polyps working together. In the Salish Sea, there are cold water corals as well as other animals that are formed from the joining of thousands of individual zooids such as bryozoans, sea pens, and zoanthids.
Bryozoans
Bryozoans, also known as moss animals, are one of the most diverse of all colony-forming animals with over 5000 living species worldwide and are found in most habitats from the intertidal to the deep ocean. The bryozoan that was queried earlier by our volunteer is known as the kelp-encrusting bryozoan, which is commonly found living on kelp in the Salish Sea. These animals look like a thin silver or white circular crust, typically around 1 mm deep and 20 cm wide, that grows on the surface kelp, rocks and floats. This crust forms a radial pattern from many tiny rectangular zooids, with the oldest found in the middle and the newer growth found on the edges through asexual reproduction. Using chitin, these zooids form a protective shell around themselves and all perform the same functions of feeding, reproducing and defending.
Kelp-encrusting bryozoans are typically found growing on algae, where in summer they can bloom to almost cover the entire host, but once the kelp dies the colony will also die. This relationship does appear to be parasitic as the kelp is unable to receive nutrients and light for photosynthesis on the covered areas. But to answer the question that was asked by our volunteers, kelps are perennials and annuals, so they may not live long enough to be totally affected by the bryozoans.
Sea Pens
Another colony-forming animal found in the Salish Sea is the orange sea pen, known for their unique shape which is similar to a feather or quill. The orange sea pen can grow up to half a meter tall and consists of many individual polyps that are arranged into thick branches which project from the stalk and the base of the stalk is anchored into the sand. These polyps differ from kelp-encrusting bryozoans in that each one has a different function based on their location in the colony. Some of the polyps are responsible for filtering food or producing sperm and eggs, while others will intake and expel water to allow the sea pen to expand and contract. This allows the sea pen to withdraw completely into the sea bottom when they are disturbed. Fun fact: when disturbed they can also become luminescent to startle their predator.
Zoanthids
These small anemone-like animals grow to around 1-2 cm in diameter, and are formed by hundreds of orange-yellow polyps that connect to a base sheet known as a stolon. Zoanthids are very similar to anemones as they are columnar in shape and have a short fringe of tentacles around the oral disc. To keep their structure and add protection, these animals are also able to incorporate sand and other materials into their surface layer. They reproduce both sexually and asexually so they will commonly be seen together in large colonies.
There we have it, this was my deep dive into the world of some of the colony-forming microorganisms that are found living and working together in the Salish Sea. I am fascinated by how so many of these animals seem so simple at a glance, can actually be home to an intricate microscopic world of thousands of tiny animals all working together in harmony, reminding us that not everything is exactly as we see.
by Kayley Johns
Almost two months have passed since my first day as a Summer Educator and in this short time I have learned so much about the Salish Sea and its many inhabitants. I have also learned many new skills, which include being able to spot hidden creatures within the habitats. I might now classify myself as an I-spy expert (I should add that on my resume!). To help you make the most of your next visit, I’m sharing my new knowledge and tips for spotting camouflaged creatures.
Camouflaging Tactics
One of the best ways to find these sneaky creatures is to learn about camouflaging tactics. Many local species rely on blending into their environment in order to hide from their predators or hide to ambush their prey. To help hone your I-spy skills, I would like to introduce you to some of our best camouflaging candidates. Try to spot them during your next visit!
Giant Pacific Octopus
Giant Pacific Octopus
Octopuses are known as masters of disguise, with one of the most sophisticated camouflage systems in the animal kingdom. Using millions of elastic cells in their skin called chromatophores, they are able to change the colour and pattern of their skin to blend in perfectly with their environment. They are also able to change the texture of their skin to better simulate their surroundings. When looking for our giant Pacific octopus, a good tip is to look in dark spaces and corners as they are often sleeping to conserve energy.
Mosshead Prickleback
Mosshead Prickleback
Mosshead pricklebacks are known for their prominent cirri found on the tops of their heads and along their backs’ This helps them camouflage with the textural elements of their surroundings. They are known for being very good at hiding and will typically be found in rock crevices or empty giant acorn barnacle shells. Find them in our Centre poking their heads out of barnacles (Look for other creatures that use the barnacles as their home too!). Make sure you look in all of the nooks and crannies to find these adorable muppet-like faces staring back at you.
Starry Flounder
Starry Flounder
Starry flounder are very talented at blending into the sandy bottom, making them a real challenge to spot. Their bodies are flat and speckled which allow them to blend and bury into the sand. They can also change the colour and pattern on their skin as needed. This is perfect camouflage to hide from predators and to catch prey. Spot them by looking along the sand to find their darker fins or their two eyes sticking out of the sand.
HELPFUL TIPS
I have mentioned only a few of our best sneaky creatures but there are many more that can be easy to miss. Here are my top tips for finding camouflaged creatures:
Take your time — Make sure you slow down and peer into nooks and crannies; you may find animals hiding in the most unexpected places.
Ask an Educator — We have so many wonderful staff and volunteers that are excited to share their knowledge. They know some animals' favourite hiding spots and what to look for in each habitat.
Look from another angle — It can be challenging to spot a creature at a certain angle so make sure you look from different directions.
Good luck! I hope you spot many camouflaged animals.
Head of Animal Care Kit Thornton
by Head of Animal Care, Kit Thornton
Recently one of our 9 year old male rock greenlings appeared to have an acute issue with his eye. In consultation with Dr. Collis of Glenview Animal Hospital, it was recommended we remove the eye in order to improve the health and lifespan of the fish. Fish can have an excellent quality of life with a single eye.
The surgery was performed at our Centre by Dr. Collis and our Animal Care Team. The greenling was put under anesthesia, a nerve block applied around the area and the eye was removed through a procedure called enucleation. After an injection of pain medication, the greenling was woken up and placed in recovery.
Male Rock Greenling Post Surgery
One week post surgery the eye socket had healed and the fish was weaned off pain control and returned to the company of other fish. Lab tests on the eye confirmed a diagnosis of cancer. It is likely the tumor will return however until then, the greenling is able to live comfortably and pain free with the Animal Care Team closely monitoring his health and welfare.
We are proud to share this surgery will form a case study to further the knowledge around greenling anesthesia and medical care.
Special thanks to Dr. Collis and Glenview Animal Hospital.
by Autumn Wang
This summer, I joined the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea as an Assistant Educator. My favourite part of the job is being able to observe a lot of the animals. The aquarium exhibits can bring animals closer, especially the smaller creatures that are hard to spot in the wild. The acrylic makes observation easier by providing a different angle and perspective (you can see underneath animals!). I also saw some unique behaviours I learned about in my courses. Here are some of the cool things I got to see this summer.
Northern abalone radula
Abalone Eating
Have you seen an abalone eat? They have two rows of teeth on a structure similar to a tongue! This is called a radula. Abalone press their mouth against the surface of rocks and other hard substrates. Then, they scrape the surface with their chain of sharp teeth. What are they eating? Algae! This grazing leaves behind marks that look like two white lines and you can follow the trails to see where the abalones have been. Other animals also have a radula for eating including turban snails, limpets, chitons and many more. On your next visit, take a closer look at the abalones or other animals pressed against the glass and watch the radula moving in and out to graze.
Moon jelly
Moon Jelly Feeding
You might wonder, “How does a jelly eat when they don’t have a mouth?” Jellyfish use small hairs called cilia, located on their tentacles, to move food directly to the stomach. The moon jellies at the aquarium are fed sea monkeys which are microscopic shrimps. The moon jelly first uses the stinging cells in their tentacles to sting and hold onto their prey. Then, the cilia gather the food into a small pile, and move them into the stomach. As you watch, the horseshoe-shaped stomach will gradually fill up, and become the colour of their prey.
Rough keyhole limpet
Limpet Eye Spots
Have you ever seen the eyes of a limpet? When you look closely at the base of their tentacles, you may see small black dots which are their eye spots. They can’t see us with their eye spots. But those eye spots are very important for telling day and night, and for detecting predators. Eye spots can sense the changes in the amount of light. When predators pass by, their shadow casts over the limpet, eyespots sense the sudden light change, and the limpet will hide in its shell until the predator is gone. Try looking for the eye spots of limpets. Can you find other animals that also have eye spots?
Leather star
Underside of Leather star
Have you ever taken a look at the underside of a sea star? If you look closely, you might find smaller creatures that call this place home. Sea fleas and skeleton shrimps are some of the small animals you may find. The sea stars provide shelter for these animals. Some worms also live under the sea star. They use the sea star as a shelter, and will defend the sea star when there are predators around. This commensal relationship is found in many other animals, where both organisms benefit from each other. For example, worms living on shells of shellfish, or sea anemones living on crab’s exoskeleton. When you look into an exhibit next time, can you spot any animals living together?
Basket Star
Have you seen the Centre’s basket stars? They often cling on to the rope in their exhibit and can be hidden out of view. Many visitors will walk by the exhibit without noticing them. Basket stars are related to brittle stars so you might notice some similarities. They have long and skinny arms that are used for locomotion and catching food. Most of the time you might see them curled up on the rope. When the basket stars are feeding, they will extend their arms out, looking like a net or basket, and use their arms to catch food that drifts by. Try looking at some of our exhibits from a different point of view, like the inside of an empty shell, behind a rock, in the corner of an exhibit. Maybe you can find some something you didn’t notice before.
Shrimp Carrying Parasitic Copepod
Is that shrimp carrying eggs? That was what I thought at first. After a closer look, I realized it is carrying a parasitic copepod. Unlike other copepods that live their life floating in the water as a plankton, these copepods will find an animal that will take care of it. They trick the shrimp into thinking they are the eggs, and the shrimp will carry the copepods under their abdomen and provide nutrients for them. Shrimps are not the only animal the copepods target. They will also infect crabs and other decapods.
Our aquarium is home to a lot of fascinating creatures. Some just take a bit more effort to find than the others. When you visit us, or other aquariums, try looking at the exhibits from a different point of view. I’m sure you will have some exciting discoveries. If you are a big marine nerd like me, I strongly recommend bringing a magnifying glass with you, it will open a whole new underwater world.
by Serena Tierra
Why land-based whale watching?
Land-based whale watching has benefits for both people and whales. The Salish Sea is a noisy place for marine mammals, so viewing them from land means you’re not contributing to noise pollution in the water. This is especially important for whales that rely on echolocation to hunt, like the endangered Southern resident killer whales. Land-based whale watching is also more accessible for many people. It’s free and you can go at any time. Sightings are not guaranteed, but you can still enjoy your day sitting by the water.
T19C Spouter at Clover Point. Photo: Serena Tierra
Where to go
The Whale Trail
The Whale Trail is a series of land-based viewing points to look for marine mammals. There are sites from BC to California (thewhaletrail.org). Whale Trail sites around Victoria:
Outside our Centre! The waterfront path in Sidney is a great place to look for marine mammals. We’ve observed killer whales three times so far this summer!
Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site
Pedder Bay Marina in East Sooke
Several locations in the Gulf Islands
Other Victoria area locations not designated as official Whale Trail sites, include my favorites:
Island View Beach
Glencoe Cove
Ten Mile Point
Clover Point
T19C spotted off Clover Point, Victoria. Photo: Serena Tierra
General location tips
There’s nothing better than sitting on the beach while a whale swims right in front of you, but that’s not always how it works out. Sometimes the whales are far offshore. In that case, getting up high above the water on a bluff or rocks makes it easier to see them. It’s also good to find somewhere more exposed so trees don’t block your view.
One of the most common questions I get asked about whale watching is “When is the best time of day to see them?” There isn’t usually a time that is best. Gray whales are easier to find at high tide, when they come close to shore to feed. Later in the day, at least during the summer, can also be easier because whale watching boats and other observers have had time to look for whales and report their sightings. I have seen whales at all times of the day, so don’t let that limit you.
How to observe
Binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens can help you get a closer look. I use a Sigma 150-600 mm lens, but you can also get good pictures with a smaller lens. Some people use attachments for their phone camera or take pictures through their binoculars.
The best way to look for any sign of whales is by scanning the water. Don’t focus on one spot because you might miss something the other direction. If you’re following a report, watch the direction they are coming from but occasionally look around in case you missed them. It also helps to put the binoculars or camera down to scan a wider area.
What to look for
Blows and fins
This is the easiest thing to look for. Whales are marine mammals, so they must come to the surface to breathe. When they do this, warm air coming out of their blowhole condenses in the colder environment and results in a visible puff. Pay attention to the shape, as it can help you identify the species. If you see a blow, try to spot a fin. Male killer whales have large (6 ft, 1.8 m), distinct fins that are hard to miss, while gray whales have a low dorsal ridge (looks like a series of knuckles!) that is harder to spot.
Splashes
There are multiple whale behaviors that cause splashes — breaching, tail slapping, hunting/feeding and socializing. Keep watching the area to see if a whale or another animal caused the splash.
Gray whale with birds. Photo: Serena Tierra
Birds
Large groups of birds gather around bait balls (large groups of fish). Some whales forage on bait balls too. Birds will also pick up any leftover food when whales are feeding. If you see a group of birds in the water, keep an eye on them and look for blows.
Boats
Stationary boats, both commercial and private, can be an indicator that there is a whale nearby. Sites like marinetraffic.com can help you find and identify whale watching boats. Keep in mind they may be stopped for other reasons. Whale watching boats view other wildlife and recreational boaters may be fishing, swimming or just enjoying their time on the water.
Heart-shape blow. Photo: Serena Tierra
Common species and how to identify them!
GRAY WHALE
Look for a heart-shaped blow and a gray body with white mottling. They may roll onto their side when feeding and expose their pectoral fins. You are most likely to see them in the late winter and spring during their northbound migration. Though some gray whales stay in the area to feed during the summer.
Humpback whale tail. Photo: Serena Tierra
HUMPBACK WHALE
Look for tall blows, a small dorsal fin, and dark gray body. They arch their back when diving and often display their wide flukes, which have varying amounts of white markings. If you see one pec slapping or breaching, look for their long pectoral fins — they can be up to 15 ft/4.6 m! You are most likely to see humpbacks from the spring to early fall before they leave for warmer waters in the winter.
MINKE WHALE
Look for a curved dorsal fin and dark body. They have short, bushy blows that are not always visible. Minkes are usually not very active at the surface, so you may not see much of them. Sometimes they will only surface a few times in an area before disappearing. Bird activity can be helpful for keeping track of their movement. Our local minkes do not migrate, but you are more likely to see them in the spring and summer when there is more food around.
HARBOUR PORPOISE
Look for a triangular dorsal fin, gray body, and a rolling motion at the surface. You usually won’t see a blow from these small cetaceans. They travel alone or in small groups and are shy, avoiding boats. Because they are small with a small fin, they are more easily spotted in calm seas.
DALL’S PORPOISE
Look for a black triangular dorsal fin with a white tip. Dall’s porpoises have black bodies with a white belly and are commonly mistaken for young killer whales. They can be seen bow-riding boats.
KILLER WHALE
Look for tall, black dorsal fins — females are typically 2-3 ft/0.9 m tall, males are 5-6 ft/1.8 m tall. Smaller fins are more curved and males fins usually straighten out as they grow. There is a gray/white marking behind the fin called a saddle patch and a white patch behind the eye.
Bigg’s killer whales off Ogden Point, Victoria. Photo: Serena Tierra
PACIFIC WHITE-SIDED DOLPHIN
Look for a gray and white curved dorsal fin. They have a dark gray back with lighter sides and underbelly. Pacific white-sided dolphins are typically found in large groups of up to 200 individuals. They are very playful and active at the surface and are often seen bow-riding and leaping out of the water.
While you look for whales, you have a good chance of spotting other marine mammals:
Harbour seal
California sea lion
Steller’s sea lion
Elephant seal
Sea otter
River otter
Sighting reports
Reporting your sightings
Engage in citizen science by reporting your sightings. Ocean Wise’s WhaleReport app is free and allows you to assist with whale research. Not only does your data aid scientists, it can reduce and prevent collisions with boats as the data is sent to nearby commercial boaters.
Finding reports
Facebook is a great place to learn about sightings. There are many groups and pages that cover different parts of the Salish Sea. If you live in, or are visiting, the Puget Sound area, Orca Network on Facebook is the best place to find and post real-time sightings and updates. For Vancouver Island, Comox Valley Wildlife Sightings posts real-time whale sightings for parts of the eastern coast of the island and has multiple group chats for others to share sightings.
Some groups covering Southern Vancouver Island and Southern Gulf Islands:
SGI Whale Sightings Network
Whale Watch – Pender Island
Whale Sightings in the San Juan Islands
Sooke Whale Spotting
Whale Spotters of Otter Point & Sooke
Learn more about local marine mammals at Educator in the Park (Beacon Park, Sidney), August 9th, 1:00PM-4:00PM.
Sea stars, Photo: Serena Tierra
1) Consult a tide chart
Visit tides.gc.ca to find the tides for the beach you plan to visit. The Sidney tidal station provides the tides for our nearby Glass Beach. Visit during the lowest tides possible. Look for negative tides to access the greatest diversity; negative tides don’t come around very often.
Plan to arrive at least an hour before peak low tide so you have plenty of time for exploring.
2) Prepare
Supplies to bring:
Sunscreen, hat, & waterproof shoes with good traction
Water to drink and snacks
Polarized sunglasses
ID guides
Camera
First aid kit
1) Getting started
Rinse your hands (but not with soap!)
Dip your hands into the ocean (not a tidepool) or if you have access, use a tap or sink to remove soap, sanitizer, and other harmful products before touching animals. Keep your hands wet while you are touching — this will make it less stressful for the animals.
Be gentle
A great rule for touching is using only your pinky finger. Avoid spending too much time handling each individual animal; some animals shed body parts or use other defensive mechanisms when they are scared or threatened.
Go slow
For your safety and animal safety, try not to rush; you don’t want to step on fragile animals or overlook camouflaged ones. To find hidden animals, stop in one place for a few minutes, next to a tide pool or a big rock, and bend down to get a better view. Your shadow may startle crabs and sculpins but they will come back out of hiding if you stay still. The longer you watch, the more animals you will notice. Moving slowly will minimize your risk of slipping.
Be mindful of moving or lifting rocks
Only move rocks smaller than your head. When you are done carefully replace them in the same spot and the same orientation; some species are adapted to live under the rock and others on top. Also be careful so that nothing is crushed or left uncovered.
2) Interacting safely
Touching with one finger and wet hands is a general rule that applies for many species you will encounter, but there are some exceptions:
CRABS – When picking up small shore crabs, cup your hands and stay close to the ground. If you drop the crab or it climbs out, it won’t have far to fall. For larger crabs, hold them from the back so they can’t pinch you, but still stay low to the ground.
FISH – You may not expect to see fish on the beach, but tidepool sculpins, gunnels, and clingfish can all live in the intertidal zone. Often they are found in tide pools or under rocks. Sometimes you will see them out of the water — they are okay! These fish can survive out of the water and don’t need to be moved. This is one group of animals we should avoid touching. They have a protective coating of mucus on their skin that can be damaged.
Black katy chiton, Photo: Serena Tierra
ANCHORED ANIMALS – This includes limpets, snails, chitons, anemones, sea stars, and more. These animals have strong feet holding them to the rocks so they aren’t removed by waves or predators. This also helps them hold onto water while the tide is out. Do not remove animals from the rocks. This can cause damage and make it harder for them to survive until high tide.
Aggregating anemones, Photo: Serena Tierra
CLOSED ANEMONES – One of the most common species in this area is the aggregating anemone. They close up when they are exposed to hold in water until the tide comes back in. When they are touched, by a hungry predator or curious human, they jet out the water in defense. This puts them at risk of drying out, especially on hot summer days. Because of this, it’s best not to touch any closed anemones.
3) Photography
If you find something you can’t identify, take pictures. Photos from multiple angles and of any structures you notice can be valuable for identification. It also helps to include an object for scale. This can be any common item with a consistent size – coins, keys, pens, even your hand! A macro lens for your camera or phone is useful here for small animals and details. Another helpful tool is a polarizing filter. They can help remove glare from the water, giving you a clearer picture of what is in the tide pool.
Tide pool image without and with polarizing filter, Photos: Serena Tierra
1) Identifying your finds
Now that you’ve documented your favorite finds, it’s time to identify them. Guidebooks are a great place to start, especially when you have a rough idea of what you’re looking at. You can also ask one of our Educators by bringing pictures to the Centre or messaging them to our social media channels.
There are also a number of online resources where you can connect with others for help with identifications. Post pictures, locations and any notable observations on the iNaturalist app or website. The site assists with identifications and online experts confirm them.
There are local naturalist groups on Facebook groups that allow you to crowdsource an ID — Field Naturalists of Vancouver Island and Pacific Coast Tide Pool and Beachcombing Identification and Appreciation are my personal favorites.
2) Souvenirs
Resist the temptation to bring souvenirs home with you. A general rule is remove human-created objects, but natural ones should stay at the beach. Here is what we mean.
DO take:
Garbage – “Take 3 for the Sea” is a staff favorite. Pick up THREE pieces of garbage each time you visit a beach.
Seaglass – This is a favorite beach find. As it is human-created, it’s okay to remove from the beach. Glass Beach in Sidney (just south of the aquarium) is known for having endless seaglass.
Avoid taking:
Rocks – They create a habitat for animals to live in and hide under.
Shells – They provide homes for hermit crabs and other animals. Shells and rocks also break down, returning needed components to the natural system.
Live animals – It’s damaging to the ecosystem and the individual animals, especially if you release them in a different place. You also require a collection permit to keep any live animals.
UPCOMING LOW TIDE EVENTS:
July 12, 9:00am-11:00am – Glass Beach, Sidney
July 14, 11:00am-1:00pm – Patricia Bay, North Saanich
August 10, 9:00am-11:00am – Patricia Bay, North Saanich
August 11, 9:30am-11:30am – Glass Beach, Sidney
PLANKTON POWER — FIVE PLANKTON FACTS
by Mack Ross, Educator
1) Not all plankton are microscopic
Sea Nettle Jelly
Did you know that the word plankton means to wander or drift? Plankton describes all of the organisms that are carried by ocean currents rather than actively swimming. You may be surprised to learn that jellies are considered plankton! These gelatinous animals spend their entire lifecycle drifting through the water — they truly “go with the flow.” Given that tentacles of local jelly species, like the lion’s mane jelly, can reach a length of 120ft (36.5m), it is safe to say that not all plankton are microscopic.
Plankton can be broken down into two broad categories: phytoplankton (plants!) and zooplankton (animals!). Just like land plants, phytoplankton undergo photosynthesis to obtain energy from the sun. Zooplankton are animals that typically consume phytoplankton, or other zooplankton, in order to acquire energy and grow. Many zooplankton species, like copepods, stay microscopic through their entire lifecycle. Other types of zooplankton begin life as microscopic organisms, but then grow into larger animals. Sea stars, barnacles, sea urchins and octopuses all begin as plankton!
2) Plankton migrate
When considering the greatest migrations in the animal kingdom, many people may think of wildebeests traveling through the Serengeti or the Arctic tern flying from the North to South pole. Surprise! Zooplankton undertake the largest animal migration. Each day, zooplankton travel from the upper layers of the ocean near the surface to the deeper, intermediate waters. This process is known as diel vertical migration and is driven by the predator and prey dynamics being navigated by zooplankton.
Phytoplankton live near the surface because they require sunlight for photosynthesis. Despite wanting to feast on these phytoplankton, zooplankton will spend daylight hours in deeper water to avoid predation. Baleen whales, fish, and birds, zooplankton’s predators, prefer to feed during the day given the advantage of sight. Under the moonlight, zooplankton migrate back up to the surface to feed on phytoplankton. Covering vertical distances of up to 1,000m, the migration of zooplankton is spectacular.
Winter Ocean Clarity, Ogden Point, Victoria
3) Plankton reproduction impacts water clarity
In winter months, the Salish Sea is much clearer, almost appearing tropical. Why? Plankton! The seasonal shift from winter to spring brings more sunlight and animal reproduction. Just as bald eagles and other birds begin nesting in late winter and spring, a lot of marine species also begin reproducing in the springtime.
Red Urchin Spawning
Check out this red sea urchin! Spawning is a common method of reproduction in the ocean. This urchin is releasing its eggs into the water with the goal it will come into contact with the sperm. If this process is successful, larval sea urchins, considered zooplankton, will feed on phytoplankton. With the cumulative reproduction of many species, and an increase in phytoplankton (more sunlight = more phytoplankton!), waters become murkier and there is a noticeable decrease in visibility in the spring and summer. (Just ask a diver!)
4) Phytoplankton produce oxygen and regulate atmospheric carbon levels
The cycle of photosynthesis in phytoplankton is important because they not only make oxygen available but they also help remove carbon from the atmosphere! Old growth forests and mangrove systems get a lot of credit for their ability to provide clean air, but more than half the air we breathe comes from phytoplankton.
When phytoplankton are consumed by zooplankton, or otherwise perish, the carbon they sequestered sinks to the bottom of the ocean. This movement of carbon into the deep ocean is important because it eventually becomes buried by sediment. This process of carbon absorption and transfer is significant because it helps decrease carbon in other Earth reservoirs, such as the atmosphere, creating a more habitable climate for all other species.
5) Plankton form the base of our marine food webs
We marvel at beautiful fish, sea stars and marine mammals, but the success of these organisms is directly related to the base of the marine food web — plankton! Even though many plankton are too small to observe with your naked eye, it is vital that we understand and appreciate these organisms because they help maintain the balance, and overall health, of marine food webs. Next time you are admiring the amazing marine life of the Salish Sea or feeling grateful for fresh, clean air — you should thank plankton!
by Tina Kelly
Be on the look out. The lookout for an unwanted visitor – a visitor who moves in and is difficult to remove. The moniker “mean green eating machine” offers some indication as to how this visitor treats its new home and roommates.
Awareness about this unwanted and uninvited visitor – the European green crab (Carcinus maenus) – is growing. At the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, questions and comments about these invasive crabs are increasingly more common. Some visitors are seeking clarification or more information while others are looking to confirm a potential sighting.
How do you identify European green crabs from local species? European green crabs and green shore crabs (Hemigrapsus oregonensis) have differences beyond the fact one is meant to be here and one is not. But it turns out neither are always green. Shape of the body or carapace can help; an invasive green crab’s carapace is wider at the top – triangular or diamond in shape – whereas native shore crabs are relatively square in shape. Kelp crabs (Pugettia producta) and helmet crabs (Telmessus cheiragonus) are two other crabs that could be misidentified as the invasive species. Identification based on colour and shape has limitations, but there is one clear telltale feature: invasive green crabs have five spines, or marginal teeth, on either side of the eyes.
The European green crab is among the top 100 most invasive species in the world. In some regions, it ranks in the top 10 most unwanted species. Introduction of this species to the Pacific coast of North America is thought to have occurred in San Francisco in 1989 and the species has spread ever since. Hitching rides on boats and in ballast water are significant ways aquatic species (adults or larvae) are introduced to new areas.
As their nickname suggests, their appetite is voracious. They are masters at breaking through the protective shell of mussels and clams and are known to eat other crab species. These crabs take over habitat, outcompeting local species for space and food. In the process, they excavate sediments and destroy eelgrass meadows, itself a critical habitat for so many species including salmon and forage fish such as Pacific herring. Their destructive power can alter the shoreline and change the landscape. In many areas, the presence of European green crabs has significant economic implications.
How can you help? Know how to accurately identify and differentiate the invasive crab from native species (Remember those five “teeth!”) and help scientists track the spread. Report sightings to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (email AISPACIFIC@dfo-mpo.gc.ca) and be sure to include the date, location and a picture.
Note: Sidney’s fishing pier hosts an educational sign about the European Green Crab.
*Originally published in November’s Seaside Magazine.
by Mack Ross
Photo: Jeff Reindl
“The earth is what we all have in common” – Wendell Berry
Growing up as a nature-lover and learning about the environment extensively in my studies, I have always been motivated by this quotation from naturalist and writer Wendell Berry. To me these words inspire action to protect and conserve the environment because it is something that will benefit everyone. When I moved to Vancouver Island six years ago, I noticed a degree of local environmental consciousness that I hadn’t experienced elsewhere. Now as an Assistant Educator at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, I have been able to recognize many organizations and people who work to protect this exceptional ecosystem and embody the meaning of this quotation.
For those who spend their time learning, working, or simply being fascinated by nature, the looming threat of global climate change can quickly overshadow any sense of wonder with feelings of sorrow and uncertainty. However, as we look into a future which will be dominated by climate change, there are certain characteristics that could make the Salish Sea more resilient than other natural areas around the globe.
What is ecological resilience?
Ecological or environmental resilience describes the capacity of an ecosystem to respond to, or bounce back from, any form of disturbance. This could refer to a single disturbance event, such as an oil spill, or longer term disturbances like the impacts associated with global climate change (warming temperatures, sea level rise, ocean acidification). When considering the Salish Sea, there are several distinct components which contribute to the resilience of the region.
Salish Sea & Surrounding Basin
(Stefan Freelan, 2009)
Geographical factors contributing to resilience
The geographical features of the Salish Sea, including submarine canyons, increase the degree of coastal upwelling. Coastal upwelling describes the vertical circulation of the ocean, pulling colder water from the deep ocean towards the surface. The conditions created by ocean upwelling not only allow the native biodiversity to flourish, but it also contributes to ecological resilience by introducing water which contains more oxygen, is less acidic, and is colder. These abiotic factors will play a major role in regulating the climate change impacts we are projected to experience locally.
Biological factors contributing to resilience
The Salish Sea is often referred to as a biodiversity hotspot because it is comprised of biologically rich environments, such as kelp forest ecosystems, which support important connections between species. The unique resources in the Salish Sea set the stage for the success of a wide diversity of species, many of whom we appreciate everyday here at the Centre. It is this degree of biodiversity that makes the Salish Sea even more resilient within the face of disturbance and climate change.
Anthropogenic influence and resilience
Aside from the Salish Sea’s geographic and biological features, it is also important to reflect on anthropogenic influences. It is estimated that approximately 8.7 million people inhabit the Salish Sea bioregion, so we must consider these social factors in order to get a true sense of the region’s resilience. A population of that size places significant strain on the environment including effects such as habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, pollution, overharvesting, and many other impacts. However, there is also positive human influence including an abundance of institutions, community organizations, and people which all come together to protect and educate about different aspects of the area. By learning and investing in ways to conserve the Salish Sea, we can work towards a more sustainable future for all who inhabit this ecosystem — plants, animals, and people.
Photo: Jeff Reindl
How can YOU contribute to resilience in the Salish Sea?
Protect salmon habitats near where you live.
Conservation shouldn’t be confined to the ocean, ecosystems like salmon spawning rivers are directly connected to the sea.
“All drains lead to the ocean.”
Take responsibility for what you are putting down the drain. This is important to consider when purchasing cleaning products, but also when using roadways and public spaces. Storm drains lead to the ocean.
Appreciate wildlife — but give them space!
Getting outside and exploring is a great way to learn about the region, but remember to keep a safe and respectful distance from wildlife.
Take three for the sea.
When outside exploring, pick up three pieces of trash to prevent it from making its way to the ocean.
Be an advocate.
Talk to your friends, family and community about the ways you are protecting the environment.
Focus on something you love.
When working to conserve the environment, it is important to remember what you are working to protect and the meaning behind your actions. Whether you are focused on protecting a certain species, a specific place, or even the presence of a particular resource, don’t lose sight of what you truly value.
Although the Salish Sea may have a strengthened degree of resilience, we still need to reflect and respond on the ways our region will change amidst climate change. We should take this opportunity to do our part in conserving the environments around us.
References
Khangaonkar, T., Nugraha, A., Xu, W., Balaguru, K., & Pacific Northwest National Lab (2019). Salish sea response to global climate change, sea level rise, and future nutrient loads. Journal of Geophysical Research. Oceans, 124(6), 3876-3904. http://doi.org/10.1029/2018JC014670
Wasem, M (2019). Study tests resilience of the Salish Sea to climate change impacts. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Retrieved from https://phys.org/news/2019-08-resilience-salish-sea-climate-impacts.html
