Monterey Bay Whale Watch Map of Marine Mammal
Sightings in the Monterey Bay Region
March 1 - March 31, 1999
compiled by Richard Ternullo
Note: Gray Whales were numerous throughout the area during this reporting period, and are not plotted on the chart. Numerous California Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, and Southern Sea Otters are seen on all trips, and also are not plotted.
Gray Whales are still the most numerous large cetacean as they migrate north. During this phase of the migration, mating activity is sometimes common and this year has been no exception with a considerable amount of activity seen. Most of this mating activity is closely associated with Pacific White-sided dolphins.
The next phase of the migration will be mothers and calves close to shore along kelp beds. Some early Humpback Whales have arrived and their numbers should rise as the next month unfolds.
Sightings of Long Beaked Common Dolphin seem to be declining toward the end of the month and are being replaced by a rise in Pacific White-sided Dolphin. This may be due to a decline in water temperatures.
The sightings plotted above were compiled by Richard Ternullo for the period 3/1/99 to 3/31/99.
Sightings reported by G. Fisher, T. Jones, D. Lemon, N. Lemon, B. Lucas, Monterey Bay Whale Watch, H. Neece, L. Oliver, J. Wettle, J. Williamson, W. Williamson.