Area & Wildlife

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San Juan Islands: The San Juan Islands are known by many as kayaking paradise...breathtaking scenery, pristine water, abundant wildlife, and many quaint campsites. This is a world-class paddling destination. The majority of research done on the social interactions of Killer Whales is also carried out in this area. Blue Otter Outfitters is located in Friday Harbor - a scenic town in the center of the San Juan Islands. From here we can easily access the many treasures of the islands.

*Old Wooden Ketch Anchored in Friday Harbor
Wildlife

Killer Whales: The San Juans are world famous for their Killer Whales. Much of what science knows today about the interactions of these amazing animals was found out by studying the resident whales of this area. Three resident pods consisting of a total of 82 whales live here year round. For more information visit The Whale Museum website.

Dall's Porpoise: These are commonly seen whenever on the water in the San Juan Islands. They are seen skimming along the surface of the water and love to play in the wakes of larger boats. They are sometimes mistaken for Killer Whales because of their coloration.

Minke Whales: These filter feeding whales are from 20 to 30 feet long and are frequently seen in the areas we kayak in. They are one of the smaller baleen whales, are roughly the same size of an adult Killer Whale, and spend much of their time filter feeding below the surface of the water.

River Otter: These opportunistic hunters are related to mink and spend most of their time feeding near the shore or in the inter-tidal zone. We liked these fuzzy little guys so much that we named our company after them.

Sea Lions: Often seen sunning on rocky shores and on navigation buoys they can weigh up to 570 lbs. These marine mammals will begin barking loudly and waving their heads from side to side if approached too closely by a kayaker.

Harbor Seals: These are the most commonly spotted marine mammal you are likely to encounter while kayaking. You will see them poke up their gray spotted heads tentatively to see what is going on at the water's surface. They feed on shallow water fish and are shy but playful.

Sea Birds: Many varieties of sea birds are common in the area. If you are interested in birds bring your binoculars and a good bird identification book and you will be rewarded by the great diversity of this area.

Land Mammals: Many of the islands are heavily populated with deer and rabbits. Campers must be on the lookout for raccoons that are overly curious

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