Today we counted our 238th calf. That is the most we have ever counted during a survey.

Yes, it is raw data: this year, with good weather and sea conditions, we have put in many more hours on Counter Point than previous surveys (and we still have more days and hours scheduled). We do not know how this will affect the estimate we will create after we analyze the data, but this is a fine bit of work and a tribute to all the Counters who have worked those many hours. Great work.

Oh yes ... the whales had something to do with this achievement too!

Above a Gray-whale mother is between a Loon, foreground, also migrating north, and her calf as they all approach Counter Point. The calf is number 237 (our record breaker) and the Cow is Gray whale number 1400 (an off-the-charts number for us).

Below, is our second and last pair of the day. The calf (number 238) is showing us what was for supper (a nice celebratory repast).

Gray whales northbound (all) 4 | Calves 2 — 2015 Count 1402 | 238

Hours 8:00