Lindsey Bloom, a resident of Juneau, was looking forward to enjoying the sunny weather on a recent Friday. Planning a leisurely paddleboard outing, she anticipated soaking in the beauty of the spring day, with the sparkling sun reflecting on the water. Little did she know, her routine excursion would turn into an extraordinary encounter with nature.
Living close to the ocean on Lena Loop Road, Bloom often ventures out on her paddleboard. However, this particular day took an unexpected turn. As she paddled along, she noticed a group of orcas on the horizon, capturing the moment on video to share with her parents. But then, something caught her eye beneath the surface.
To her surprise, a large female killer whale emerged from the water, lifting her paddleboard. Initially startled, Bloom found herself frozen with fear as the whale circled her, diving beneath her board and making eye contact. Feeling a mix of terror and awe, she pleaded with the whale to leave, eventually managing to reach safety on shore, albeit shaken by the encounter.
Bloom’s experience was not isolated. Matt Musslewhite, sailing near Point Louisa, also had a close encounter with the same whale. Approaching his boat, the curious whale circled and inspected it before swimming away.
These encounters served as a reminder of Juneau’s wild nature, where residents coexist with various wildlife, including bears, eagles, and whales. While such interactions are part of the allure of living in Juneau, they also underscore the need for caution and respect for these majestic creatures.
According to Suzie Teerlink, a Marine Mammal Specialist, the whale in question was likely a curious teenager, exhibiting typical behavior for its age. While such encounters are rare, they highlight the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals.
Despite the initial fear, Bloom has come to appreciate the unique experience, seeing it as quintessentially Alaskan. However, she plans to stick to calmer waters for her paddleboarding adventures in the future.
