Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery
Piedras Blancas (white rocks)
This is the largest elephant seal rookery on the west coast. This national park is open year-round. Parking is free and there is boardwalk access to view the elephant seals. At times, there can be thousands of seals. Depending on the month these elephant seal will be birthing, molting, breeding and fighting and resting. During my visit most were basking in the sun. If you live in California, this is a wonderful day trip, and it is free.
Driving up the coast of California is beautiful. In 2017, Piedras Blancas became part of the California Coast National Monument.
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Piedras Blancas Light Station – HOME is nearby. You will see it from the rookery.
December – March
Birthing and Breeding
Adult males fight for dominance. Most births occur in January. Mating season peaks in February.
Pups are weaned when their mothers leave and finally weaned pups depart toward the end of April.
April – August
Molting
Molting begins by shedding old hair and the outer layer of skin.
Molting for females and juveniles begins in spring. Males molt during the summer.
September – November
Fall Haul-Out
“Male and female elephant seals that are to young to take part in the breeding season, haul out to rest in the fall. This is a good time to see young males practice fighting.”
Notable History
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