Orca-in-Norway

Leica x Lizzie Daly

A ‘KILLERS’ CHARM

The Return Of The Orca

"Every winter between November and January, Northern Norway hosts a vast number of Orca and Humpback whales as they come here to feed.

They follow the herring that overwinter in fjords not far from the small fishing village, Skjervoy.

Today, the spectacle also brings a huge amount of tourism. 

There is an increasing pressure on operators to provide a ‘once in a lifetime encounter’. It’s not necessarily the number of boats out on the water but more the way tourists are behaving around the whales. This campaign film has an important message to anyone who wants to visit."

...a story by Lizzie Daly.

Lizzie Daly

Fishing_boat_in_wintry_Norway

Lizzie Daly

Inspiration for the expedition

Documenting A Transforming Wildlife Experience

"I've visited Skjervoy across five different seasons, witnessing firsthand how increased attention has transformed the experience in the area. As a visitor who documents the local wildlife in various roles, I'm deeply committed to this subject. It's important for all of us to consider our impact on these delicate ecosystems, which has become a significant topic in Norway."

Dorsal-fin-of-an-orca-in-a-Norwegian-fjord

Lizzie Daly

Navigating through difficult waters

The Challenge of Responsible Wildlife Observation

"In my time here, I've observed a range of behaviors on the water, that can create challenges. However, the situation is complex and involves various factors, not just the actions of individual tourists or operators. With this film, I aim to encourage everyone to think about how we interact with nature, particularly when observing majestic creatures like the Orcas."

Orca_cow_with_a_calf_in_a_Norwegian_fjord

Lizzie Daly

Advocating Patience

The Benefits of Respectful Wildlife Engagement

"Giving ourselves more time to engage with wildlife gently and respectfully is beneficial for everyone. This approach not only enhances our own experience but also supports the wellbeing of the animals we admire. This film is a call to all visitors to embrace a more patient and considerate way of experiencing Norway's incredible marine life." 

A_pod_of_orcas_in_a_Norwegian_fjord

Lizzie Daly

A rare experience

Witnessing the hunting behavior of orcas

"We were lucky to witness the ultimate spectacle while there, a pod of 20+ Orca feeding on a bait ball of herring. This allows for a show of natural behaviour and dramatic hunting. Of course after a while we were also surrounded by plenty of other boats but this gave us an opportunity to tell both sides of the story while on location."

Orca_in_a_Norwegian_fjord

Lizzie Daly

Following the herring

How Skjervoy's orcas use social strategies to forage in winter

"The orcas come to Skjervoy to follow the shoals of herring that migrate into the fjords during these cold months. This seasonal migratory behaviour is a key aspect of their survival as it provides them with a reliable source of food. Orcas are highly social animals that live in complex group structures known as pods. These pods are often made up of related individuals and can have a deep social bond that is essential to their hunting strategies and survival."

A_pod_of_orcas_and_a_whale-watching_tour_boat_in_a_Norwegian_fjord

Lizzie Daly

Strategic Hunters

Orcas in Skjervoy balance natural behaviour among human interactions

"In Skjervoy, orcas use specialised techniques to hunt herring. They work together to herd the fish into dense balls and then use their powerful tails to stun the fish. This coordinated behaviour shows their intelligence and adaptability. The presence of tourists and boats has both positive and negative effects on the orcas. Whilst the boats can occasionally interfere with the animals' hunting, they also help to raise awareness and interest in their protection."

A_woman_with_winter_clothes_in_winter_surroundings

Lizzie Daly

Annual Orcas Gathering in Skjervoy

Research and conservation

"The annual gathering of orcas in Skjervoy provides researchers with the opportunity to collect important data on their population dynamics, health and behaviour. This information is crucial for the protection of orcas, especially in the face of threats from climate change and human activities."