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Orca Whale Breaching off San Juan Islands near Anacortes, Washington - Encircle Photos

1 Orca Whale Breaching off San Juan Islands near Anacortes, Washington

This orca whale is breaching off San Juan Islands near Anacortes, Washington. The killer whale’s behavior has other names such as cresting and porpoising. This leap is called a peduncle throw because the mammal is seen rotating and pivoting its body before reentry. Scientists do not agree what this behavior means. It is likely a social signal of dominance or a warning. The orcas off the Pacific northeast are called the resident species.

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Orca Whale Breaching off San Juan Islands near Anacortes, Washington

Ferry Dock, Friday Harbor, WA 98250

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