2020 MSc student Lucy Quayle. Photo taken from Saturna Island by Derek Peterson
Photo Credits: Derek Peterson
2020 MSc student Lucy Quayle. Photo taken from Saturna Island by Derek Peterson

Whale sightings are one of the ways in which we insight into where the whales are located in real time. On the Canadian side of the border, Master’s students from Simon Fraser University have been conducting research on whales in the Southern Gulf Islands and are able to provide whale sightings throughout field seasons over the past several years. These researchers have worked alongside the citizen science group, the Southern Gulf Islands Whale Sightings Network (SGIWSN), made up of over 60 whale sighters located throughout the Southern Gulf Islands.

Whale sightings have long been a subject of fascination and intrigue for both researchers and laypeople alike. These majestic creatures, known for their enormous size and mysterious behavior, have captivated the imagination of countless individuals throughout history. With their distinctive features and unique behaviors, whales offer a compelling window into the natural world and the mysteries that lie beneath the surface of our oceans. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or simply a curious observer, the study of whale sightings is sure to offer a wealth of insights and discoveries.