06-15-2015: Lively Mother and Calf Humpbacks, Lunge-feeding Molas Sea Otters and More

Moss Landing Mola Mola
The Mola Mola. This one was about 3′ in diameter. We’ve been seeing them eating velella velellas at the surface. It’s not quite as dramatic as lunge-feeding humpbacks, but still amusing. Photo: Michael Sack, www.sanctuarycruises.com 06-14-2015

We’re starting see more mola molas in The Bay. Also known as the “giant ocean sunfish.” These animals can get to be over eight feet in diameter. Most of the ones see are in the two to five foot range.

Moss Landing Breaching Humpback Whale
It often seems to be the young calves who get lively. Photo: Michael Sack, www.sanctuarycruises.com 06-14-2015.

The molas mainly feed on jellies. But lately we’ve been seeing them feeding on the velella velellas, AKA “by the wind sailors.”

Moss Landing Humpback Whale
This is the mother. Photo: Michael Sack, www.sanctuarycruises.com 06-14-2015.

The humpback action was all around. Mostly close in just outside of the harbor. On our three to four hour trips we have been doing a little exploring.

Moss Landing Sea Otter
Their paws are on the areas on their body that is not covered in fur. This is keeping its paws warm by holding them up to fur on it’s upper jaw. Photo: Michael Sack, www.sanctuarycruises.com 06-14-2015
Moss Landing Humpback Whale
Humpback whale just outside of Moss Landing. The building in the background is Moss Landing Marine Lab. Photo: Michael Sack, www.sanctuarycruses.com

Today we headed out about 4-miles and didn’t see anything out there. All the action seems to be right out in front in Moss Landing.

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