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Whales in San Francisco Bay

Roughly 30 gray whales have been spotted in the Bay this season, many more than is typical. Sadly, there have also been at least 14 deaths this year, which is more than in all of 2024. 

We are investigating to help determine the cause of these deaths. By gaining insights into what is causing these tragedies, we can better understand how to help prevent them.

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gray whale fluke
Sarah Wood

Sarah Wood

Monterey Bay Operations Coordinator

Sarah serves as a primary staff liaison for Monterey Bay Operations volunteer crews and supports day-to-day operations, including marine mammal care, response and volunteer training. 

Sarah graduated from UC Santa Cruz with a degree in ecology in 2020, and has been volunteering on Monterey Bay Operations Monday Crew with the Center for almost four years. 

Sarah has a strong background in education and volunteer management through her work as a youth programs instructor at the Seymour Center in Santa Cruz. She also has research experience at Año Nuevo Island studying elephant seal populations, as well over a year of experience in veterinary medicine from her time as a veterinary assistant at Santa Cruz Vet Hospital. 

Outside of work, Sarah enjoys tide-pooling, swimming and exploring new places in Santa Cruz.

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