During whale watching trips on Jan. 2, onlookers were delighted to witness a rare sighting of both fin and minke whales, which are uncommon at this time of year. The Monterey Bay Whale Watch celebrated this event on Facebook, highlighting the significance of these sightings along California's coastline.
According to the NOAA, minke whales, the smallest baleen whales in North American waters, usually appear alone or in pairs. Their unique feeding method involves side-lunging to capture schools of fish, allowing them to thrive despite their smaller size.
The fin whale, known for its sleek, streamlined body and impressive size, is the second-largest whale species globally. Their populations have been threatened due to commercial whaling, a fact emphasized by NOAA, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts.
On this memorable January day, whale watchers were treated to an array of marine life, including 17 humpback whales and 30 Risso's dolphins, showcasing the richness of Monterey Bay's ecosystem. The whale watching group noted this was an extraordinary opportunity for wildlife viewing.
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