By Kristin Walovich

On the weekend of the 26th and 27th of January 2013 WhaleFest was held at Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. Organizations ranged from local non-profit marine research and public outreach organizations and program here in the Monterey county, as well as fun activities such as painting a squid!

Our own very Pacific Shark Research Center participated in this event to share their knowledge of sharks to the public. It was a very windy, cloudy, and cold on Saturday as we set up the station. The strong wind made it a challenge to keep fliers and posters on the table. Braving the weather, our efforts were recognized as visitors intrigued by the mako shark Isurus oxyrinchus head and of a shark fin we had on display, began to ask questions. We were able to teach visitors more about sharks and also talk about the research that's going around in Moss Landing Marine Laboratories! Many of them are very interested in attending the Open House event that will be held at MLML April 20th and 21st.

 

There were many attempts to inflate a humpback whale in the Festival on Saturday, but because of the strong wind, the whale was never completed.

But luckily, the weather cleared up and the sun came out and made WhaleFest far more enjoyable!