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Baja Mexico Cruise Reviews: Sea Bird

From the Sea Bird in Baja California
Monday, January 16, 2006

Magdalena Island, Baja California

The sun was bright and our spirits high as we set off by Zodiac in search of gray whales near the northern tip of Isla Magdalena, where the ship had anchored during the night. Each group experienced different encounters with these magnificent creatures, but all were rewarded with looks at cows with young calves. Several boatloads watched an enthusiastic baby breach nearby, and others observed spy-hopping, a behavior in which the whale raises its head out of the water, then sinks out of sight.

Hiking through the dunes meshed nicely with whale watching. Vivid purple sand verbena, tiny lavender lotus and butter-yellow blooms of evening primroses decorated the wind-rippled sand. One of several jackrabbits launched itself in huge bounds with giant ears extended. Some chose to wander slowly at this lovely spot, while others strode to the outer coast and the crashing waves of the Pacific. Colorful shells lay scattered on the hard-packed sand along with an array of bones and feathers. Perhaps one of the most surprising treasures was a dainty seahorse, an animal often associated with warm tropical waters.

The day ended with a Mexican fiesta aboard ship. We feasted on fresh fish and lobster tacos brought and prepared by residents of the nearby town of Puerto Lopez Mateos and enjoyed the singing and guitar playing by a group of musicians. What a fun end to an exciting day!

Gretchen Pederson, Natural History Staff; Photo: Carlos Navarro, Undersea Specialist