Hardy's Channel, Conway Narrows

 

Black Huckleberry patch on the sandhills

Track follows channel markers (4.3 km from Milligan's Wharf)

In late September 2025, three young Sperm whales beached themselves on the north shore's sand dunes in the area of Hardy's Channel (Conway Narrows). By September 30, all three whales had died and were left on the shore of the sand hills (Gulf side). The precise location wasn't given, but from the description and photos, I had a pretty good idea of the possible locations. On October 12, I paddled to Hardy's Channel from the Brooks River launch point (end of Wharf Rd). There was a slight breeze, but not enough to be a serious issue. On the way, I made a stop on the sandhills and went for a nature walk. I did come across large patches of Bearberries, Broom Crowberries, and colourful Huckleberries. 

Bearberries

Starry False Solomon Seal

 
Afterwards, I continued SE in Hardy's Channel in search of the whales. When I got to the Hardy's Channel opening (to the Gulf), I first went ashore on the north side looking for the beached whales. There were no signs of them on the north side, but with my binoculars, I spotted them on the other side of the channel opening. After a short paddle across the channel, I went ashore and made my way to the whale site. The only other life close to the site was seagulls (i.e. no eagles or vultures). The whales were still relatively intact but quite flattened by their great weight on land. There was a strong smell, but not an extreme one (yet). After taking some photos, I headed back to the kayak and paddled back to the Brooks River launch in one stretch (5 km). The tide was low, so I had to stay in the channel all the way back (i.e. no shortcuts).

Three Sperm whales (all dead by Sep 30)

Looking pretty sad on land

Hardy's Channel opening to Gulf