The growth rate slows down in the second year, but the whales will continue to grow for about 30 years. They reach a maximum length of 40-45 feet, with females larger than males. This is quite a few animals for so late in the season. A local fisherman and diver believes the water is much warmer than in past years. This might be influencing some of the whales to hang around.
Nobody really knows.
Researchers can only view them for limited amounts of time. For many species, their whereabouts are known for only a few months out of the year. But understanding their migration is an essential part of identifying and protecting whales' habitats. We can't interview them, but we can watch them at every chance. The migration of the gray whale close to the North American coast presents an unequalled opportunity for whale-watching.