Earth Systems Science, Inc.

Grunion Run for ESL Students

Jun 23, 2003

ESSI coordinated a beach dinner picnic and Grunion Run activity for some ESL students from the Community Education Center of Pasadena City College. The group consisted of Korean, Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese students. They were joined by some ESSI and Expo Rangers for a beach BBQ dinner. After dinner on the beach, the group attended the Grunion Run activity held by the Cabrillo Marine Museum. After visiting the aquarium and the Grunion Program, the group walked to the beach to wait for the Grunion. The large crowd and the complications of numerous seagulls and a sealion feeding on the Grunion waiting to come ashore resulted in a minimal run. However, a few brave Grunion came ashore to reveal themselves to the group.

The Grunion are a unique form of California wildlife. They are the only fish to lay eggs on land. A combination of extreme high tides and long, shallow beach profile create an opportunity for these fish to lay their eggs in the sand above the normal high water mark. The eggs incubate in the sand until the next extreme high tide comes (about 2 weeks later).

ESSI will consider organizing trips to visit other unique California wildlife through the academic year. Periodically check the ESSI Calendar for future trips.