2020 02-06 SB Channel
Calm seas and sunny skies were found in the Santa Barbara Channel. Sightings included 4 humpback whales, 2500 long-beaked common dolphins, and 400 California sea lions. A massive megapod containing at least 2000 individual dolphins located the Condor Express just three or 4 miles outside the harbor. There were thousands of predatory see birds diving and other animals in the area working on the hotspot. We had great sightings and interactions with these lively dolphins. While dolphin watching one juvenile humpback whale appeared along with all the bait in middle the hotspot. We were able to watch this whale as it performed several instances of surface lunge-feeding. This is one of those not too common spectacles of nature and it is a privilege to witness. Continuing out towards Santa Cruz Island, south of The Lanes, there were scattered smaller groups of dolphins: 100 here, 200 there, and so forth. We saw two large aggregations of California sea lions that were busy feeding together as a group. Soon a pair of whales and then a single showed up. This round out our total of 4 whales. The water was crystal clear and the whales got friendly several times and the views were spectacular. We also took a little tour along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island and enjoyed seeing the island it’s winter time “green coat”. You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com
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