northern california coastline - October wildlife?
Feb 24th, 2011, 06:55 AM
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northern california coastline - October wildlife?
We are potentially planning a trip to the San Francisco area October 4 - 14. We plan to drive up to Mendocino and Klamath areas for a few days, spend a few days in the San Francisco area, and potentially drive south to Big Sur area for a night or so. What wildlife can we expect to see? Will there be any sea lions or other pinnipeds to see anywhere along the coast? If so, where would the "hot spots" be for this time of year? I'm not familiar with their migratory routes unfortunately.
Thank you for any help!
Thank you for any help!
Feb 24th, 2011, 08:25 AM
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The Elephant Seals will NOT be at Ano Nuevo that time of year. However, you'll probably see Sea Lions/Seals at Pier 39 & seal rock in SF, and I think at Pt Lobos (don't miss Pt Lobos).
Stu Dudley
Stu Dudley
Feb 24th, 2011, 11:03 AM
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Klamath areas have lots of wildlife-birds can be shown here:
http://www.fws.gov/klamathbasinrefug...ys/1-11010.htm
http://www.fws.gov/klamathbasinrefug...ys/1-11010.htm
Feb 24th, 2011, 03:17 PM
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Point Reyes is a good spot for sighting sea lions, harbor seals, and tule elk in October. In winter, there are also migrating grey whales and elephant seals visible there.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a good place to spot elk herds and is near the Klamath River.
In San Francisco and Monterey, you could take a whale watching boat tour and probably spot quite a variety of marine mammals.
http://www.oceanicsociety.org/whale-...rallon-islands
http://www.montereytours.net/?event=...&offerId=11848
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a good place to spot elk herds and is near the Klamath River.
In San Francisco and Monterey, you could take a whale watching boat tour and probably spot quite a variety of marine mammals.
http://www.oceanicsociety.org/whale-...rallon-islands
http://www.montereytours.net/?event=...&offerId=11848
Feb 26th, 2011, 04:31 PM
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Elephant seals at Point Reyes are primarily present during the breeding season (Dec-Mar) but there may well be a few (primarily younger ones)into May and again by Oct. You can get as close (from viewing platforms) as is probably safe for both you and the seals.
Whale migration season also peaks Dec-Mar, but seeing whales in October isn't out of the question. Tule elk present year-round and the rut is often still in full force in Oct. Mid-sized mammals include bobcats, coyotes, skunks, racoons, foxes; mountain lions are much more elusive.
Point Reyes has over 400 bird species on its list. Although once again early October isn't peak season, you won't be disappointed. Great spots include Tomales Bay, Abbotts Lagoon, Drakes Estero, and many woodland and grassland trails. Further afield, Bodega Bay and Bolinas Lagoon are also birding hotspots.
October is a great time to check out hawk migration at the Marin Headlands (just north of GG Bridge) on Hawk Hill.
Point Lobos is a gorgeous spot, as are many coastal areas where you could see wildlife (Pescadero Marsh, Mendocino, ...). Enjoy your sightings, wherever you end up!
Whale migration season also peaks Dec-Mar, but seeing whales in October isn't out of the question. Tule elk present year-round and the rut is often still in full force in Oct. Mid-sized mammals include bobcats, coyotes, skunks, racoons, foxes; mountain lions are much more elusive.
Point Reyes has over 400 bird species on its list. Although once again early October isn't peak season, you won't be disappointed. Great spots include Tomales Bay, Abbotts Lagoon, Drakes Estero, and many woodland and grassland trails. Further afield, Bodega Bay and Bolinas Lagoon are also birding hotspots.
October is a great time to check out hawk migration at the Marin Headlands (just north of GG Bridge) on Hawk Hill.
Point Lobos is a gorgeous spot, as are many coastal areas where you could see wildlife (Pescadero Marsh, Mendocino, ...). Enjoy your sightings, wherever you end up!
