Tentative Return of the Great Whales

With belugas, seals, and fin whales being observed, it (almost) feels like summer again in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park! Tipped off by his friends, a naturalist and wildlife photographer managed to reach a strategic vantage point between Les Bergeronnes and Les Escoumins just in time to observe a fin whale. Rumours are also going around that a blue whale has been spotted in Portneuf-sur-Mer, while a minke whale supposedly ventured into Tadoussac Bay. Will they be seen again in the days to come?

“Many belugas have been present in small groups off the Tadoussac dunes. They could be seen discretely blowing and lifting their tails before diving as if they were eager for spring to return. The return of seabirds is also becoming increasingly noticeable despite the lingering snow in our villages,” shares a seasoned observer. In early April, around twenty belugas were also seen in the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord, as was a harbour seal.

The arrival of certain seabirds, including gannets, brant, razorbills, and double-crested cormorants, is another sign that summer is right around the corner! For many bird species, the north shore of the St. Lawrence is an important migratory corridor in spring and fall. It’s even rumoured that a few lucky individuals spotted a pair of hooded mergansers in the Tadoussac area. It just goes to show that if you keep your eyes peeled, Mother Nature can hold some wonderful surprises!

Seals split their time between land and sea, a habit inherited from their exclusively land-roaming ancestors. They generally seek out a spot near the water’s edge where they can quickly flee in the event of danger and stay far away from any source of disturbance. Why do they leave the water? To give birth, moult, regulate their temperature, or simply to rest!