Oregon Coast’s Winter Whale Watch Week Starts December 27
Winter Whale Watch Week runs from Friday, December 27 through Tuesday, December 31, on the Oregon Coast and is hosted by Oregon State Parks, which have volunteer-staffed sites available for those wanting to see whales and- with luck- their calves.
Oregon Winter Whale Watch Week
The Unusual Mortality Event affecting gray whales has ended, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Since it ended, the estimated population of gray whales has increased from 14,530 last year to 19,260 this year, representing an approximate 30% increase. Although the numbers are growing, the calf count is still low as the population recovers, so seeing the calves is rare.
The Oregon State Park has allocated volunteers at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast who will be available between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales as they migrate south to the calving lagoons in Mexico. The sites selected are among the best places on the Oregon Coast to watch for whales .
Oregon Park Ranger Peter McBride said, “Now is a perfect time to see the whales as their population rebounds on the Oregon Coast’”
Depoe Bay’s Whale Watching Center will be open from December 27 to 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Details of volunteer-staffed sites are available on the official Whale Watch webpage.
Tips For Whale Watch Week
Aside from enjoying the gray whales, Winter Whale Watch Week is also a good time to see other coastal wildlife, such as birds and other marine mammals. The park rangers and trained volunteers can help with help from trained volunteers and rangers.
The Whale Watching Center offers visitors interactive whale exhibits and panoramic ocean views. Oregon State Park Rangers will be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to:
- Follow beach safety guidelines, specifically: stay out of fenced areas, know the tide schedule, and keep an eye on the surf at all times.
- Dress for the weather.
- Bring binoculars.
- Click here for beach safety tips.
Visit oregonstateparks.org for more information about coast parks and campgrounds, and share photos and videos on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch24.
Sources & References
- Press Release from Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept.