Noyo Pelagics: April Trips Recap
Excerpted from the full report for April 19 & 26, with many photos here:
https://noyopelagics.com/april-19-26-deepwater-pelagic-birds-and-mammals/
By Peter Pyle
California (front left) and Steller’s (front right) Sea Lions. Photo by Peter Pyle.
Noyo Pelagics had a successful April, with three trips to Noyo Canyon. Calm seas and light winds made for excellent conditions. While heading out on the 19th, the groups compared Steller’s and California Sea Lions at the outer channel marker, noting the larger, stockier build and blunt head profile of Steller’s versus the more streamlined, dog-like head shape of California Sea Lions.
Humpback Whales kept the boat engaged for over an hour as participants photographed fluke patterns for identification. At the same time, thousands of loons and hundreds of scoters streamed north overhead in long lines and scattered flocks. Over the canyon, highlights included an eight-foot Salmon Shark and a constant presence of shearwaters, gulls, alcids, and Black-footed Albatrosses.
A memorable moment on the 26th came with the sighting of the Western Flyer, the historic vessel associated with Ed Ricketts and John Steinbeck’s Sea of Cortez expedition.
Marine life encounters continued with “friendly” Humpback Whales approaching closely, allowing passengers to observe them beneath the surface in clear water. Numerous Ocean Sunfish were also present, feeding among vast numbers of By-the-wind Sailors clustered on the surface. Avian highlights were Cocos Booby, Cook’s Petrel, and three Laysan Albatrosses.
MCAS scholarship awardee Jonah Benningfield with barnacle covered buoy. Photo by Peter Pyle
The group retrieved a plastic fishing buoy covered in pelagic gooseneck barnacles, discovering a small ecosystem that included a pelagic nudibranch and Gulfweed Crab.
As always, the trip fostered connection among participants. Conversations often turned to “big day” birding efforts in Mendocino County, including a recent record of 174 species by a team of young birders. These exchanges, paired with constant bird activity, added to the energy of the day.
Noyo Pelagics continues to emphasize youth participation, supported by Mendocino Coast Audubon through scholarships and camping opportunities that reduce barriers for students. With more trips planned for spring and summer 2026, the program remains focused on education, community, and the shared excitement of exploring offshore ecosystems.
Learn more at noyopelagics.com
