Marine Mammals

 

Marine Mammals at Cabrillo National Monument

An assortment of marine mammals, including dolphins and pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), can often be seen from the cliffs of Cabrillo National Monument. You might spot a seal or sea lion sunbathing on a rock ledge or searching for food around the shallow tidepools. Remember, these are wild animals—never approach them. Always maintain a respectful distance, as all marine mammals are protected under Federal law.

Pacific Gray Whales: The Giants of Point Loma

The largest marine mammals in the Point Loma area are the Pacific gray whales. These majestic creatures, reaching up to 45 feet in length and weighing around 33 tons, can be seen off our coast between December and March during their incredible annual migrations. The whales spend their summers feeding in the cool northern waters of the Chukchi and Bering seas. Come early autumn, they begin their 5,000-mile journey south along the west coast to Mexico—the longest migration of any mammal on earth.

A gray whale will continue this migratory pattern for 40 to 60 years. Unfortunately, their predictability once made them easy targets for hunters, nearly driving them to extinction in the 19th century. However, thanks to protection from the International Whaling Commission since 1946, gray whales have made a remarkable recovery, with current populations nearing their estimated pre-exploitation numbers.