Among several areas in the world where Orcas occur and can be studied, the
Monterey Bay area has a special place at the forefront of advancing our
knowledge of some aspects of this spectacular mammal.
The program will encompass the seasonality and
movements of these mammals and the creation and publication of Killer
Whales of California and Western Mexico: a catalog of photo-identified
individuals, NOAA, 1997, with a minimum of 211 photographed animals in
California waters. Predatory behavior toward different prey species and
the roles played by adult females, males, and calves will be
explored. This species is well known for its vocalizations and dialects.
If time allows, the program may include a brief update on Orca studies
elsewhere, including DNA sampling.
This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the different Orca types -
the Transients, Residents, Offshores, and now (none other than) the "LA
Pod". Note that some video footage may be graphic in its depiction of
predation.
This presentation is free and open to the public. For more information about meetings
of the Monterey Bay Chapter of ACS, see the ACS
Monterey Bay meetings web page.