Paradoxically, whale populations in Monterey Bay during the summer of 1998 were the highest we have ever recorded. We believe that the bulk of the whale population moved into the coastal upwelling zone in search of what little krill was available - these centers became the only food source available. Normally, fin whales do most of their foraging offshore. This species, too, likely came in search of krill. Hopefully in the not too distant future we can use our studies to help predict the effects of global warming on productivity in the Monterey Bay.
Researchers continue to study their population dynamics, foraging behavior, and physiology.
California sea lion, Zalophus californianus . California sea lions are the most common pinnipeds in the Sanctuary, and their numbers continue to increase. We also observed a dramatic increase in the number of pups born there. Northern sea lion, Eumatopias jubatus. The population has been in decline over most of its range.