From the full moon of Jan. 25 through the new moon of Feb. 9, we will see many daytime high tides in the 5- to 6-foot range. An opportunity to see the bright-red super-giant star Antares comes on Feb. 4. It will be seen near the waning moon and is part of the constellation Scorpio. In Chinese tradition, it is called “fire star” due to its color, and it will greet the Chinese New Year—the Year of the Dragon.
Plenty of rainwater contributes to healthy fish habitat in local watersheds. This season saw one of the highest single days of coho salmon counts, with 150 fish, since research began in 1997. Fifty nests, known as redds, were observed, which promises a healthy cohort in years to come.
Joining the largely male northern elephant seal contingent at Drakes Beach, a small group of female seals returned and gave birth to pups. To provide them with quiet and respite, the area is now only open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Drakes Beach and the Lifeboat Station provide fenced-off, same-level viewing of these winter visitors, who have been repopulating the outer headlands beaches.