The Marine Mammals of Northern California
April 5, 2010 - April 11, 2010
A Special Field Learning Experience with
Dr Michael Noonan
Canisius College Professor of Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation

Co-Sponsored by
The Canisius College Institute for the Study of Human-Animal Relations
and
The Canisius College Alumni Association

Overview:

Canisius College is inviting alumni and their families to travel with Dr Michael Noonan (Canisius College Professor of Animal Behavior) for an exploration of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary in Northern California. The expedition will focus upon the behavioral ecology of Pacific Ocean marine mammals (Sea Otters, Seals, Sea Lions, and Whales).  It will also include opportunities to observe other species like the rare Thule Elk and the California Condor.  Dr Noonan will accompany the participants to lesser-known wildlife hotspots and will provide the group with insights from current research pertaining to the behavioral ecology of the species observed.


This trip will embody ecotourism at its finest, and will include visits to some of North America’s most spectacular wild places (Big Sur, San Simeon, Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods).  It will also highlight the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Twice-daily excursions will be intermixed with hearty meals and plenty of opportunities to relax.  Evening times will include the opportunity to join Dr Noonan for discussions about the wildlife observed and for briefings about what is to be expected on each exciting new day to come.

Space on this special excursion will be limited to 20 participants.  The opportunity is open to all Canisius College alumni and their families. However, participants must be a minimum of 10 years of age, and should be able to comfortably walk 2-3 miles over flat ground.

Itinerary:

Monday
April 5, 2010
  • Morning Flight to San Francisco
  • Exploration of Pinnicles National Monument (springtime wildflowers!)
  • Motorcoach to Cambira, CA
Tuesday
April 6, 2010
  • Big Sur Observations of Elephant Seals and Sea Otters
  • Shore side search for California Condors
  • Overnight in Pacific Grove, CA
Wednesday   
April 7, 2010 
  • Morning Whale Watch cruise to observe migrating Gray Whales
  • Monterey Bay Aquarium (guided tour of world famous facility)
  • Sunset Observations of California Sea Lions
  • Overnight in Pacific Grove, CA
Thursday
April 8, 2010
  • Kayak adventure to closely observe Sea Otters, Harbor Seals, and 20+ bird species in the biologically rich Elkhorn Slough reserve
    (Participants who don't wish to kayak can elect a motor-launch tour of same area.)
  • Afternoon visit to Ano Nuevo State Park to observe seal and sea lion rookeries
  • Overnight in Davenport, CA 
Friday
April 9, 2010
  • San Francisco Waterfront, including California Sea Lions at Pier 17
  • Midday visit to Marin Highlands and Marine Mammal Rescue Center
  • Afternoon visit to Muir Woods giant redwood grove
  • Overnight in Olema, CA
Saturday
April 10, 2010
  • Point Reyes National Seashore
  • Morning hike to Limatour Beach - the nation's largest harbor seal rookery
  • Afternoon walk along Point Reyes Promontory to observe migrating whale
  • Sunset hike in Thule Elk Reserve
  • Overnight in Olema, CA
Sunday
April 11, 2010
  • Morning departure from San Francisco
  • Late arrival at Buffalo Airport (tired, but smiling broadly!)


Cost per person : 
$1,860 (based on double occupancy).

Includes round trip air travel from Buffalo, ground transportation, accommodations, admissions, all daily breakfasts and a final group farewell dinner.

Price without airfare is $1,450.

Pricing from alternative originating airports available upon request.

For additional information, or to secure reservations, please contact the Alumni Office at 716-888-2700.