Our Marine System

A special combination of currents, winds, and undersea topography make the U.S., Mexican and Canadian West Coast one of the world’s most productive and diverse marine ecosystems.

A special combination of currents, winds, and undersea topography make the U.S., Mexican and Canadian West Coast one of the world’s most productive and diverse marine ecosystems. Annual “upwelling” events generate millions of tons of krill, other invertebrates, and small fish such as sardines and anchovies. These forage species support over 150 species of breeding and migrating seabirds, at least 29 species of whales and dolphins, plus sea turtles, pinnipeds, and large predatory fish such as salmon and tuna.

The migratory species include those from the south (subtropical) and (north) subarctic areas of the Pacific Ocean.

Short-tailed Albatrosses fly from Japan to feed here.

Laysan and Black-footed Albatrosses fly from Hawaii to feed here.

Sooty Shearwaters fly from New Zealand to feed here.

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