Monterey Bay Whale Watch Map of Marine Mammal
Sightings in the Monterey Bay Region
July 1 - July 31, 2000
compiled by Richard Ternullo
Note: Numerous California Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, and Southern Sea Otters are seen on all trips, and are not plotted on the chart.
This reporting period has seen a rise in Blue Whale sightings. As we enter the beginning of the Oceanic season there should be a strong continuation of such sightings until the end of August. Humpback Whale sightings seem to be consistent with this time of year and Humpback Whales should be the most abundant large cetacean present until about November.
If you missed the absolutely spectacular spring show of Humpbacks feeding in the Bay, this summer Blue Whales seem also to promise extraordinary opportunities. There was an exceptional day on August 3 with a friendly Blue Whale that provided close views for about 30 minutes!
Dolphin sightings have also been strong and large mixed schools have been seen frequently. The first sighting of Common Dolphin was also reported during this period. The next month or two should bring an increase in diversity as the Oceanic period establishes itself.
The sightings plotted above were compiled by Richard Ternullo for the period 7/1/00 to 7/31/00.
Sightings reported by D. Davi, S. Dutton, T. Kieckhefer, D. Lemon, Monterey Bay Whale Watch, L. Oliver, R. Ortiz, K. Stagnaro, H. Tiura, J. Williamson, T. Zoliniack.
