California Coast Turns into a Marine Buffet, Attracting Whales and Dolphin Superpods
Southern California is experiencing an unexpected spectacle: a winter wonderland of marine life. Seafaring onlookers have been treated to stunning displays as humpback whales linger along the coast, gorging on massive schools of anchovies alongside thousands of dolphins.
This year, things are different. Typically, a few humpbacks might grace the waters in early fall before continuing their journey south, occasionally making brief appearances farther offshore. This year, however, a multitude of these giants have decided to extend their stay, putting on a show rarely seen in Southern Californian waters.
“I’ve noticed the humpback whales are staying around for way longer this year,” said Mark Girardeau, photographer and caption of Newport Coastal Adventure. "This is usually a short visit on their way south. Seeing these whales and their dynamic feeding frenzy is incredible.”
Experts believe the abundance of food is driving this unusual behavior. Seen as a "superpod" phenomenon, thousands of dolphins have congregated in coastal waters, herding schools of anchovies towards the surface, creating a feast for everyone.
potom filters and. “There’s so many dolphins pushing the baitfish to the surface, creating an easy meal" Girardeau explained. “It’s pushing the whales right up to the surface, feeding in full sight. It’s just crazy to see."
Even blue whales – the planet’s largest beings – have joined the party, defying their typical Southern migration pattern. "They came and left, "said Donna Kalez, manager at Dana Wharf Boating. "You’re not supposed to see blue whales in December. They were definitely lost.”
On a recent charter, Captain Tommy White witnessed what he calls a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence: two humpbacks paused their feeding frenzy to seemingly synchronized leaps out of the water. “I’d never seen anything like it” he said, reflecting on the whales’ surprising performance.
For inhabitants and visitors alike, these unexpected sightings are a reminder of the diverse populations that inhabit our shorelines. While gray whales remain anticipated guests for their annual migration south this time of year, this year’s rare whale encounters serve as a sensational up close and personal experience with the wonders of the ocean.
