Baby Gray Whales!

The phrase “It was a day old, tiny baby” normally wouldn’t make sense when referring to a creature that’s already 11 feet long, but when you’re discussing a baby gray whale sighting, it’s more than appropriate. A baby calf of this size was recently spotted off the coast of Dana Point in California, and marine biologists used its length and physical activity pattern to estimate its age. Seen on the first day of its possible seventy year life span, the calf was still learning how to function, and could often be seen riding on its mother’s back. Gray whales put on about sixty pounds a day until they reach maturity, and eventually end up weighing upwards of fifty tons. Length wise, they reach over fifty feet. As adults, they usually live off the northern coasts of North America, migrating south to give birth in the warmth. Gray whales enjoy a good relationship with humankind, as the two have minimal dealings with each other. A calf of such a young age is a rare sight in Dana Point, as they’re usually seen on their return from southernmost Baja. This particular cute baby sea creature appeared to have been born right off the coast; we guess he just couldn’t wait to enter the world!