Mile 101 - Face Rock, Bandon Beach, Coquille Point - May 25, 2009

Report Details

Sunny Memorial Day, strong winds and low tide. 55 people out and about, walking, tidepooling and playing in the sand. Harbor Seals (about 12) were hauled our with their pups (about 6) on the rocks at Coquille Point, attracting a crowd, some of whom were too close. Dog owners leashed their dogs upon request, and we were able to get most to back away from the seals. About 40 Brown Pelicans overflew the area during the 45 minutes we were there. One Black-legged Kittiwake (best guess) and one Ring-billed Gull among the numerous Western Gulls. Wrack line was clean with only shells and small rocks. No new developments along the shore.

Conditions

Temperature: 52 F. Cloud Cover: Sunny. Wind Velocity: Strong. Wind Direction: NW. Tide Level: -2.0 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 55. Number of dogs: 6. Walking or running: 27. Playing in surf: 4. Playing in sand: 5. Sitting: 3. Tidepooling: 15. Fishing: 1. Heavy usage on Memorial Day. Dog owners leashed their dogs upon request. Harbor seal pups and adults were hauled out on rocks at Coquille Point, attracting kids and adults. Kids made the closest approach in violation of 50-yard requirement posted at the base of stairs at Coquille Point. Most moved back when informed, but remained at 25 yards (approx).

Concerns

Apparent violations: Dogs unleashed, close approach to harbor seal pups.

Disturbances: Disturbance/harassment of marine mammals

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 24. RVs/Buses parking: 2.

Notable Wildlife

Harbor Seals (about 6 pups and 12 adults) were hauled out on rocks at Coquille Point. About 40 Brown Pelicans overflew the area in the 45 minutes we were there. One small gull (short black bill, triangular black smudge behind eye at cheek), possibly a first winter juvenile Black-legged Kittiwake without any neck collar. One Ring-billed Gull. Also saw numerous other gulls, Pelagic Cormorants.

Driftline Content

Shells, Small rocks.