Park Wavelengths - Thursday, February 26, 2015

February 26, 2015 Posted by: Loretta Farley

Thursday, February 26, 2015

The full moon rises on Thursday, March 5. Called the Deer Moon by the Natchez of the southern states and white-tailed deer country, as the deer return from overwintering.

The drama of northern elephant seal life played out last Sunday at Drakes Beach where two young males and one older male spent the day sparring over the lone female, just inches from the parking lot under the watchful eyes of docents. By the end of the day, all were resting and then the males slipped out with the high tide. Elephant seal numbers have peaked in February as females are beginning to return to the sea.

Annual seal protection measures begin on March 1 as Drakes Estero and South Blue Gum Beach in Tomales Bay close during the harbor seal pupping season. Protection measures end each year on June 30. The protection measure provides the seals with a time to return to shore and rest while the pups are born and then nursed.

The cycle of the seasons continues with more wildflowers blooming, including Chocolate Lilies at Chimney Rock. Occasional daffodils along the northern sections of Coast Trail are remnants of the bulb farm once found at the Hostel area.

Point Reyes, Park Wavelengths, elephant seals, elephant seal, seal, seals, harbor seal, harbor seals, wildflowers



Last updated: February 26, 2015

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Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

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