Puffin Report 070908
Captain's Blog - July 9th
Surrounded?
The passengers on several of our boats had the unique experience of looking out and seeing whales in every direction. Whether it was Humpbacks lunch feeding, or Orcas slapping their fins and rolling, it was hard to decide which direction to look in! Also, because we didn't want to disturb these animals, our boats weren't able to move out of the area until the whales did. But instead of feeling trapped, we couldn't feel anything but lucky; where else would you rather be? Now that is my favorite kind of "traffic jam".
Whales in the News
Heart of a Humpback?
Anyone who has seen Humpback Whales out in the water can tell you they warm your heart, but might they also hold the key to a healthy heart? Recent research indicates that the structure of a Humpback Whale's heart (which in only three beats per minute sends blood around their 50 foot bodies) might be a model for less invasive pacemaker technology, as well as the inspiration for other innovations to keep our hearts healthy. We're glad that somebody is doing this important work, but we'll stick to looking at the whales from the outside, thank you very much. And if you've never gotten the chance to see them, come out on one of our tours, but be prepared; these beautiful animals may just make you skip a beat!
| | Kenai Fjords Tours Employee | Kenai Fjords
Wildlife |
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Full Name
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Abigail Marie Kemp
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Ursus americanus
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Name they go by
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Abby
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Black Bear
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Interesting fact about their name
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It means, "A source of joy."
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The Latin "Ursa" can be found in the names of several bear shaped constellations of stars. |
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Where are you from?
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I am from Sauk Rapids, Minnesota.
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All across North America, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, from Texas to Alaska.
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What brought you here?
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Family and work.
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The mountains provide ideal living habitat, and there are lots of nuts and berries to eat.
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What's your favorite food up here?
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Halibut Burritos
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Salmon, Trout, insects, plants, berries... you name it.
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What is your favorite thing to do in Alaska?
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Camp at Caines Head.
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Climbing trees, huting and fishing. |
| What is your favorite part of the park? |
Holgate Glacier
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The tree covered cliffs by Caines head and Cape Resurrection are some of my favorite places to hang out.
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What is something we wouldn't guess about you?
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I play rugby.
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Both Winnie the Pooh and Smokey the Bear were named after young Black Bear cubs. |
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