Friends,
A very nice sunny day (after the morning fog burned off) on the Channel and here is what we watched closely today:
5 Blue Whales (many more spouts in the area; a mother and calf were seen) 6 Humpback Whales (friendly approaches; mother and calf very close to boat; many other spouts in the area) 1,000 Common Dolphins (I have seen “nursery pods” full of babies before, but this one was a “making babies” or mating pod….sheesh!)
Special guests on board the Condor Express today included 2 California Sea Lions. One male and one female sea lion, each about 2 years old, had been rehabilitated at CIMWI (Channel Islands Marine and Wildlife Institute) and were released at Santa Cruz Island in front of a rocky ledge full of their cousins. CIMWI found these animals in bad shape about a month ago, each with a wound that likely was inflicted by a dominant bull sea lion on the mating beaches. Young animals are curious and often find themselves “in the way” in the rookeries….and many other younger animals just head out to another island for a vacation until things calm down. The animals had each gained about 10 pounds during rehab, and were enthusiastic in their behavior once back in the water. Photos of the release will be posted along with the rest of the trip photos tomorrow.
We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the grounds. Who knows what the future may bring. Suggestion: sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts. The Audubon Society has a deep water pelagic bird trip tomorrow (Saturday) and then Sunday we're back on teh regular whaling schedule.
Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip. Visit our NEW website: https://www.CondorCruises.com …or to view images from today and previous trips: https://www.condorexpressphotos.com In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day! Bob Perry Condor Express
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