2009 07-14 SB Channel
Today the krill was not on the surface, but the cetaceans were still very plentiful. Dozens of Humpback Whales, several Blue Whales, a lone Minke, and a nice pod of Common Dolphins helped make the day. Volunteers from CIMWI (Channel Islands Marine and Wildlife Institute) also released 2 rehabilitated California Sea Lions back into the pinniped infested waters of Santa Cruz Island. Another great day on the Channel!
Read MoreA curious botanical piece of information. Most of the plants in the ocean are "algae," not the flowering plants that dominate the terrestrial environment. However, here in southern California, we do have two species of flowering plants that have evolved to live in the ocean from whence their ancestors originated. This species is called Surf Grass (Phyllospadix torreyi), and it produces its flowers, seen here in close up, during the summer. This piece was found floating in Santa Barbara Harbor.