It’s whale-watching season for the Gray Whales in San Diego, which is an amazing experience if you have yet to try it. Whether you’re planning a whale-watching adventure, or just now hearing about it, here are some great resources on Gray Whales to help get you ready for your adventure, or help convince you to book one!
National Geographic – Gray Whales
National Geographic’s website page about Gray Whales shares a lot of great information about the species. They include a map of common areas where gray whales can be found and fast facts about the animal. Some of the facts include:
- Type: Mammal
- Diet: Omnivore
- Size: 40 to 50 ft (12.2 to 15.3 m)
- Weight: 30 to 40 tons (27,200 to 36,300 kg)
- Group name: Pod
- Protection status: Recovered
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – Alaska Fisheries Science Center
NOAA presents a great FAQ about the gray whales, including some very interesting tidbits:
- Gray whales used to be known as “devilfish” because they fiercely defend themselves and their calves against whalers.
- There are now about 18,000 gray whales in the Eastern Pacific stock. The eastern North Pacific stock of gray whales was removed from the endangered species list in 1994, however they are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
- The gray whale Western Pacific stock was believed to be extinct until 1925 when a few gray whales were seen off the coast of Siberia. There are still very few sightings of these whales
San Diego Natural History Museum
The San Diego Natural History Museum is a great resource when it comes to whale-watching. Their website includes invaluable information, such as what time of year is best. They even have a newsletter you can register for.
Go Whale-Watching in San Diego with City Cruises
Now that you have some knowledge on the subject, it’s time to go on that adventure! Enjoy the best sightseeing on the San Diego Bay with City Cruises. The San Diego Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventure is a professionally narrated tour of San Diego’s whale-watching hot spots. Join them on the water on the search for Gray Whales (winter), Blue Whales (summer), Minke Whales, Fin Whales, dolphins, sea lions, marine birds and much more! As you cruise, you’ll see up-close views of the bay’s wildlife, as well as San Diego’s iconic landmarks – from a new perspective. Onboard our staff will provide live narration and details about the aquatic life and landmarks we pass for a truly memorable experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture all the sights in photos and video, so keep those cameras ready. You can view the Whale Watching Report here.
FAQs – Gray Whale-Watching in San Diego
Where can I get more information about Gray Whales in California?
Right here! See the list of resources below:
American Cetacean Society – Gray Whales
The ACS/LA Gray Whale Census and Behavior Project is a great resource. This long-term study is the best source for daily updates on gray whale and other marine mammal sightings in Southern California.
Gray Whale, National Geographic
With they National Geographic Society, you can learn all you want to know about gray whales with pictures, videos, photos, facts, and news from National Geographic.
Gray Whale, NOAA Fisheries
Find out gray whale information on size and description, distribution, status, and conservation via the NOAA Fisheries/National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Gray Whale, DOSITS
Discovery of Sound in the Sea. What do gray whales sound like? Visit DOSITS website to hear a recordings of a gray whale vocalization.
Gray Whale, The Marine Mammal Center
The Marine Mammal Center is a great place to learn the natural history of gray whales.
WWF – Gray Whale
The gray whale undertakes one of the longest migrations of any animal. The World Wildlife Fund for Nature website provides an overview of threats and conservation concerns for the gray whale along its migration route.
Are there any blogs on Grey Whales that you recommend?
Yes. This blog below is one that you should follow:
Gray Whale Research Blogs
Explore the world of the gray whales of Laguna San Ignacio in Baja California, Mexico through research blogs from the Laguna San Ignacio Ecosystem Science Program on underwater acoustics, photo identification, and why these particular whales are “curious” about people.
Is there anywhere for kids to go to learn more about Gray Whales?
Sure! See the list of resources below:
Gray Whale, Enchanted Learning
Enchanted Learning is a kid-friendly page with drawings, images, sounds, and all kinds of facts and activities about gray whales.
Original Post Date: March 1, 2019