The Friendly Gray Whales of San Ignacio Lagoon

Thursday, September 26 7 p.m Refreshments, 7:30 p.m. Program Lecture Hall, Monterey Boatworks, Hopkins Marine Station, Pacific Grove (across from the American Tin Cannery Outlet Stores) Speaker: Jerry Loomis, ACS/MB President and retired Marine Ranger, Point Lobos State Reserve

To visit the Gray whales in their breeding/calving grounds is one of the world's greatest wildlife experiences. Formerly reached by a long cruise south from San Diego in a live-aboard sport-fishing vessel, it can now be attained via a short flight/drive combination.

The mother/calf pairs in late February and March venture down to the lagoon entrance from its inner recesses. Here, prior to departure for Alaska, the calves strengthen their endurance, interact with other similar pairs and, best of all, allow their curiosity to bring them alongside and, literally, within reach of visitors in small boats (pangas).

Jerry, who has now done several trips as naturalist for camp owners Baja Expeditions, transported the audience to the comfortable tented camp environment with its daily routine of whale watching and touching encounters, mangrove exploration (marvelous water birds) or desert walks. "The campsite on the shore of the whale-crowded waterway is wonderful with beach-combing, and great food awaits you on return". Night provides a totally darkened sky filled with myriad stars.

Related web pages:

• Baja Expeditions
• ACS Whale Watching Trips
• Links to additional information and photos of Gray Whales