Gray whale programs at MacKerricher State Park

Gray Whale Programs at MacKerricher State Park

California State Parks and the non –profit Mendocino Area Parks Association announce weekend whale talks at MacKerricher State Park! Talks take place from January 3, through March 22, 2015. Knowledgeable docents talk about the annual gray whale migration and about other marine mammals seen along the Mendocino coast. Programs are scheduled every Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 a.m., from January 3, through March 22. Whale programs are scheduled for January 3 & 4, 10 & 11, 17 & 18, 24 & 25 and 31; February 1, 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22 and 28; March 1, 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22.

Talks begin near the visitor center at the main entrance to MacKerricher State Park. Docents provide binoculars to help visitors study whales and other fascinating wildlife found near MacKerricher’s shores. After meeting at the MacKerricher visitor center, the group drives to Laguna Point, where you walk out to look for whales.

A rare, reconstructed Gray whale skeleton is on permanent display near the visitor center and entrance station. The skeleton is a composite of two whales that beached on the Mendocino coast, two years apart.

About The Whales

Migrating gray whales pass by the Mendocino coast in late fall, into winter and spring on their annual 10,000 to 12,000 mile round trip. Gray whale calves weigh about 1,500 pound at birth. Mother gray whales’ milk has about 52% fat content. A gray whale calf will gain between 60 and 70 pounds a day while nursing. A full grown gray whale can weigh up to 40 tons.

Driving Directions

The main entrance to MacKerricher State Park is located approximately three miles north of Fort Bragg, California on Highway 1. Turn in when you see the MacKerricher State Park sign, and park near the entrance station and visitor center.

For more information contact call (707) 961-0471.