If you were expecting action pictures of gray whales breaching just offshore of Sunset Bay, I'm sorry to disapoint you. The whales are here. We know this because we can see the puffs of air when they blow and occassionally we see the curves of their backs or even a tailfin as they dive through the water, but so far they haven't been close enough to shore to see much more than a glimpse. I find it comforting to know that they are there. Giant creatures, but largely hidden from view. They are beautiful and it is a treat to see them roaming free in the ocean. This time of year they are heading to Alaska from warmer southern waters. They have delivered their calves in the south and are traveling north to their summer feeding grounds in Alaska. They will make the return journey south in the fall. Oregon sets up whale watching stations during the peak travel months and has volunteers that help novices spot the whales from ocean overlooks along the coast. There are whale watching boats that take tourists on day trips to see the whales, but it is easy to find a wide spot on the coast highway where, if you are patient, you can see them swim by.
We hit 80 degrees on Thursday! The sky is bright blue and the sun is shinning. It's a great time to be on the Oregon Coast.
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That would be wonderful, just to see their presence in the distance. We got really warm here yesterday, too. I'm nursing my sore knee and wondering how long I'll be laid up. :-(
ReplyDeleteWe can spot dolphins here at the Jersey shore. But I've never seen a whale. How cool that must be!
ReplyDeleteWhat a glorious sight, and a glorious time to be on the Oregon coast!
ReplyDeleteSunny days and whales - it IS a great time to be on the Oregon Coast!
ReplyDeleteHow fortunate you are to be able to see these magnificent creatures on their migration north. It is something that I have wanted to experience, but never have.
ReplyDelete80 degrees! That is awesome. It sounds like you are enjoying yourselves.
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