Atypical gray whale sighting in Loreto, BCS

On February 19, 2025, at 08:00 AM, our team at Baja Adventures and Nakawe Project had an unusual sighting of five gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) four adults and one calf, off Coronados Island, Loreto, Gulf of California. Monitored for 60 minutes, they swam closely together, likely due to unfamiliarity with the area or as protection from predators like orcas (Orcinus orca).

Gray whales in Loreto Bay National Park photographed by Regina Domingo

Two gray whales were also found in Mulegé, both dying shortly after arrival. The 2025 migration has seen unusually high mortality, with whales found dead in the lagoons, the Gulf of California, and even preyed upon by orcas in Cabo San Lucas. Many deaths are linked to poor body condition due to food scarcity in their Arctic and North Pacific feeding grounds, worsened by an intense La Niña disrupting ocean productivity, temperatures and migration patterns.

Dead gray whale in Mulegé by Anne Von Gebhardi

The increasing presence of gray whales in the Gulf may indicate a search for alternative refuges, but the lack of food and rising mortality highlight a critical situation requiring urgent monitoring and conservation efforts.

Gray whales in Loreto Bay National Park photographed by Regina Domingo

Note: We reported this sighting via satellite phone to authorities and researchers for follow-up. Captains and observers must respect these whales, avoid pursuing them, and keep a safe distance, as they are under extreme stress. Sightings should be reported to the Loreto bay national park CONANP and PRIMMA/UABCS @primma_uabcs to aid conservation efforts.