About
Observation Post #11 Off the coast of California's Mendocino/Sonoma Counties — or the Mendonoma Coast— the gray whale southward migration usually begins in December and continues through January and into February. In March they start seeing the northward migration begin. March, April and May are prime time to see gray whales here, as the migration route of mothers with calves is closer to shore. The whales come up for air more often because of the calves. Reporter Jeanne Jackson says, "Seeing a big spout closely followed by a little spout is an affirmation of life, and never fails to warm my heart!" She shares the area's migration news from fellow whale watchers around Gualala and also from the deck of her home on nearby Anchor Bay. The photo below was taken from their home at sunset. Jeanne and her husband have a sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean. Their house is perched on a rocky knoll about 640 above sea level. "We have the chance to pick up the spouts of migrating whales and then follow them, often seeing a pod three times. We keep a spotting scope and two sets of binoculars handy." Jeanne writes a nature column called Mendonoma Sightings in a local newspaper. People call or email their sightings to Jeanne, often sending digital photos. She shares the news and photos with us on the Journey North News page for Whale Observation Post #11.
Photo: Jeanne Jackson |
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