31 MAY 1998. CALIFORNIA: MARINE MAMMAL (GRAY WHALE)
"From our research study site at Point Piedras Blancas, San Luis Obispo Co., California, the annual spring northbound (Baja-Alaska) migration of the Gray Whale (_Eschrichtius robustus_) was observed for our 5th consecutive season to assess the winter season's calf production. Only the second phase (cow/calf migration) was observed between mid-March through May 22. Impregnated, adult males, and juveniles constitute the first phase and usually pass slightly further offshore from February to mid-March and not the subject of interest in this assessment. The gray whale cow/calf migration began 10-14 days earlier than previous observed seasons (1994-97) and has finished 10-14 days early as well. Calf production during the 1997-98 Baja calving season appears to be about equal to the record high observed (and thus calculated) in 1997 which means that population has probably plateaued at or near maximum carrying capacity. Estimated total population of the eastern North Pacific stock is about 22,500 and is believed recovered to historical pre-whaling levels. Reasons for the unseasonably early calf migration is uncertain and can never be proven but perhaps can be at least partially attributed to the 'El Nino' warmed waters which were reported running 4-5C above normal in the Baja coastal waters in February and March thus perhaps prodding the whales to leave the calving grounds a bit early. . ."--Richard Rowlett Pagodroma@aol.com