I try to get down to the Oregon coast over New Years each year to catch the start of the gray whale migration. It is easy to be dismissive of an animal which seems so common, but the other populations a gray whale are either extinct or nearly so. Our northeast Pacific population is the lone exception, rebounding to an estimated 22,000 individuals. I went out of Depoe Bay on a charter boat on December 30th. The captain reported 8 foot waves, some seemed bigger. This trip resulted in my holding on to the rail and not getting any pictures. New Year's Day was different: calm, clear, and dozens of whales. While I have a lot of pictures, they only show spouts and whale backs. They are migrating from feeding grounds in Alaska to mating waters near Baja. During this trip they don't feed, so they are fasting and they are fast. There is no time for cavorting - breaches, spy-hops, and such. However, it is breathtakingly cool to look out and see a dozen spouts all around the boat. This first picture shows three whales in one frame.
-Curt
One hailed farewell.
It was a great start for the year. I pray for the best for each of you.Whale Tales
Whale Tales
Happy to be alive.
Re: Whale Tales
Way cool!
More Pics Than You Have Time To Look AT
"Anyone who thinks this place is over moderated is bat-crazy anarchist." -Ben, Airsix
"Warning: No dive masters are going to be there, Just a bunch of old fat guys taking pictures of fish." -Bassman
"Anyone who thinks this place is over moderated is bat-crazy anarchist." -Ben, Airsix
"Warning: No dive masters are going to be there, Just a bunch of old fat guys taking pictures of fish." -Bassman
Re: Whale Tales
I love this. We used to go to depot bay and whale watch when we lived in Portland.
Re: Whale Tales
Super cool!! I hope they can stay strong!!
Nice work!
Nice work!
Live Long And Prosper!!!
Stay Warm underwater with the Weezle Extreme Plus undergarment! Please let me know if you would like to order one or have any questions.
Stay Warm underwater with the Weezle Extreme Plus undergarment! Please let me know if you would like to order one or have any questions.
Re: Whale Tales
Fun! I just got to spend some time whale watching off the coast of Maui. We got to see some male humpbacks chase down a female. Great stuff!
Happy New Year to you!
Happy New Year to you!
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- ArcticDiver
- I've Got Gills
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- Joined: Thu May 03, 2007 7:15 pm
Re: Whale Tales
Nice
The only box you have to think outside of is the one you build around yourself.