San Francisco Bay Area Network

Elephant Seals

Elephant seal monitoring is part of the long-term vital signs program. Researchers including park staff and volunteers, are monitoring changes in the Elephant Seal population size and their distribution along the shores of Point Reyes National Seashore. In addition, they note changes in reproductive success through annual estimates. They also identify potential or existing threats to guide management activities. Bi-weekly surveys are conducted at four sites at Point Reyes during the breeding season (December - March).

 

Project Updates 2008

Elephant Seal Update and Summary Graphs - 2008

 

Public Events

Digital Slide Show Presentation on Elephant Seals

On weekends and hoilidays from January to March the Historic Life Boat Station near Chimney Rock will be open to the public. A 30-minute presentation about Elephant Seals and the research being conducted at Point Reyes may be offered. Inquire at the Bear Valley, Lighthouse, or Ken Patrick Visitor Centers for showtimes.

Winter Wildlife Docent Program

On weekends and hoilidays from January to March docents are available near elephant seal viewing areas, with binoculars and spotted scopes, ready to answer any and all your questions.

Elephant Seal Curriculum for students

Point Reyes offers an elephant seal curriculum unit for 6th- 8th graders to be used in conjunction with their visit to the National Seashore. Field activities can be ranger-led or teacher led. Download the curriculum here.