Hi Naturalists,
P.M. Trip only: 1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
5 Gray Whales
3 small pods (one near, one far) of Common dolphins: one ~ 100 dolphins, then
about 50, and the third was too far away to count.
Large group Cormorants on water: About 200
Captain Lee, and crew: Spencer, Matt, and Sam. CINC Volunteer Naturalist: Maria
Ornelas
It was quite cold but the ocean was calm as we left Ventura Harbor on board The
Challenger. It started to drizzle fifteen minutes later, and it was raining by
the time we spotted the first Gray at 2:20 p.m. But the rain was no impediment
to having a good time since we all wanted to be there. The passengers were
excited about seeing the first whale dive twice, treating us to great flukes
before leaving. Some of the passengers were from out of state (New Mexico,
Washington D.C.) and many locals; L.A. Ventura, Encino, Simi Valley …
At 3:08 p.m. we encountered a pair of relaxed whales who came within about 100
feet from the boat. They were at either side of the boat traveling slowly south
bound on, or just below the surface of the water, feeding perhaps? They also
treated us to great flukes so we watched them for a while, while the second
small pod of Commons darted here and there.
The best viewing was ‘reserved’ for last. At first we thought we had come upon
a single Gray whale and it took us a while to realize that there were indeed,
two whales engaged in ‘play'. We could see one whale literally swimming slowly
on its back, rolling over, spy-hopping, then rolling over some more, fins
extended exposing whitish barnacles. It looked like so much fun, that a few
Common dolphins came to join in. As we watched, Captain Lee advised that
parents be the ones to explained to their children what was going on :)
It was as cold as it was exhilarating! A great joy again to be out there in the
water! Thank you Captain Lee and crew.
Maria Ornelas
maria@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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