|
Map of Marine Mammal Sightings in the Monterey Bay Region compiled by Richard Ternullo
There were forty-one sightings of blue whales scattered throughout the Bay and outer waters, with group sizes ranging up to 10. Humpback whale groups contained up to 19 individuals. On October 13 a sei whale was observed about 15 miles west of Rocky Point. This sighting provided an excellent opportunity to confirm the identification of the animal. There was no hint of a chevron, the right side of the jaw was the same color as the rest of the animal, and it was noticeably smaller than a fin whale. The whale left a trail of fluke prints after it dived, as described in several publications, and the dorsal fin was also very distinct from that of a fin whale. Photographs were also taken. About 1000 California sea lions are hauled out on the Monterey Breakwater. Harbor seals and sea otters are seen from Monterey Harbor along rocky coasts to Pt. Lobos and in Elkhorn Slough. Click for October 2002 daily sightings list (corresponding to map above). The sightings plotted above were compiled by Richard Ternullo for the period 10/1/02 to 10/31/02. Sightings reported by R. Blakly, D. Davi, G. Fisher, D. Frank, N. Lemon, Monterey Bay Whale Watch, M/V John H. Martin, H. Neece, S. Oates, L. Oliver, S. Wilkins, W. Williamson. Copyright © 2002 R. Ternullo. No reproduction of the map or use of the sightings information is permitted without prior approval.
Last updated November 13, 2002 |