Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 02/22/2012 - 14:11
Forums
Seafloor Organisms and Changing Ocean Conditions in Antarctic

Hi again-- Jules would like to know whether you've seen any killer whales and whether they go anywhere near where you are. She also would like to know if you'll really have time to come visit here.

I never thought of deals as creepy before, but now I kinda do. I hope you don't see any in the water up close!

T.

Wed, 02/22/2012 - 15:02

Nell Herrmann

Hi there,Yes, the first mate saw some killer whales in the Drake Passage on the way here. I didn't see any, though. Killer whales are in this area, but from from Dr. Amsler and others have told me, they don't often get very close to Palmer Station or the islands around it.
I know what you mean about the seals; the leopard seals are the only ones of concern in the water, but apparently the fur seals can be very aggressive if you encounter them on land. I saw a group of 8 crabeater seals yesterday while the divers were in the water. They travel in bunches like that, but the leopard seals travel mostly on their own.
Yes, I will absolutely have time to come visit. Let me know what weekends in March or April are good and we can arrange something!
Love,
Nell