2017 09-16 SB Channel
Among the 8 or more humpback whales closely watched today, we witnessed the return of our old friend “Top Notch,” last seen by the Condor Express in November, 2016. Over 2,000 long-beaked common dolphins were also watched. Skies were bright and sunny. Sea conditions in the northern Santa Barbara Channel were excellent.
As reported earlier this week, marine life has been concentrated in the northern Channel, starting a few miles offshore and ending in The Lanes. This was the situation today as well. There were hundreds of dolphins around the boat at all times. They were friendly, as usual, and very interested in feeding. The abundant food that got the dolphins excited also attracted whales.
Humpback whales were found one at a time as the Condor Express moved from whale to whale through the area. The feeding activity had the whales preoccupied, however tail flukes were common. One whale came very close to the boat for one, nice friendly approach. It turned out to be Top Notch, a whale first reported by us in March, 2015. It is always great to know an old friend is alive and well.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express
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