Image: a common dolphin demonstrates extraordinary agility by doing a reverse, tail-first breach. Not really. But it did jump so high it was able to come straight down like an arrow.
2024 07–25 SB Channel
Blue skies and bright sun created a magnificent backdrop for marine mammal watching. A gentle breeze wafted through the northern part of The Channel, but things got a little more blustery as we went off shore. Sightings for the day: 2000 common dolphins, 4 humpback whales, 1 Minke whale, and 15 California sea lions.
Common dolphins were everywhere in small to medium size pods. On our way out to The Lanes, west of The Buoy, we passed several small groups. Next, a pod of about 600 very active animals located the Condor Express. This was a leaping and high-flying pod. Every dolphin was up in the air…a magnificent demonstration of their ability and agility. Fabulous sighting! (See today’s photograph for an example).
Captain Dave and the crew turned it east/northeast to put the wind and weather behind us. When we were past Habitat, we passed a small mob of sea lions. About a mile later, we found our first of 4 humpback whales. Of course, more dolphins were all around the area, feeding alongside the whales. 3 more humpback came into the zone. Whales and dolphins together shifted into travel mode.
On the way home, we drove by and pointed out a single Minke whale.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store.
Bob Perry
Condor Express, and
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