Gray Whale

Eschrichtius robustus

Young Gray Whales are born underwater and are immediately able to swim on their own. However, the calves depend on a diet of rich milk for at least 6 months. Early whalers called the Gray Whale the Devilfish because females strongly defend their calves against enemies, including Killer Whales, sharks, and people. Twice yearly large numbers of Gray Whales pass close to the California coast while traveling between Arctic feeding grounds and calving waters off Mexico.

Look For : A large brownish-gray whale covered with white blotches, spots, scars, and barnacles. No fin on back. Spout shoots up in a V shape.

Length : Body up to 46' long.

Habitat : Shallow bays, inlets, and near-shore waters.

Range : Pacific coastline from Canada to Mexico. Commonly seen along the California coast. Atlantic population was hunted to extinction.