How lovely to spot a right whale ... but keep your distance

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How lovely to spot a right whale ... but keep your distance

By BABBIE GUSCIO
info@islandpacket.com

Published Tuesday, November 20, 2012 | 542 Words |

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This is the time of year when miracles happen.

One such miracle is the return of the endangered right whales off of our coastal waters. Calving season began in mid-November and will last until March. Last year there were only six calves spotted.

Conservationists are worried because for the past two seasons there have been fewer births than normal. There are about 400 North Atlantic right whales in existence. They grow up to be about 55-feet long and can weigh 70 tons. Right whales spend their summers in the Bay of Fundy off the coast of Nova Scotia. There were not many whales seen feeding this summer so it is thought there may be a food shortage, which leads to fewer calves.

Daily flights have begun over the coast watching for the whales and checking on their calves. Female right whales only give birth once every three years.

Speed limits for boats and commercial ships in these waters are strictly monitored so as to avoid a collision with these magnificent animals.

I think seeing one of these endangered creatures would be amazing. So if you are out boating or fishing in the ocean keep your eyes peeled.

You might see a miracle for sure.

The Palmetto Animal League's Putt for PAL charity golf tournament is set to tee off at noon Dec. 3 at Belfair's Fazio West Course. The $150 fee will include lunch and the golf, of course. There will also be prizes and drinks.

All proceeds from the day benefits programs at PAL's adoption center at Riverwalk Business Park. To register, go to www.palgolf.golfreg.com or email puttforPAL@palmettoanimalleague.org.

Palmetto Animal league would also love to have volunteers at its thrift store. So if you have a few hours to spare and want to help out, let them know.

Christmas tours are so much fun. Houses are dressed to the nines, and you can get wonderful ideas to use from them. Hilton Head Choral Society will hold its annual Christmas tour from noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 9 at Hampton Hall. Six beautiful home will be open for the day. The self-guided tour will end at the private community's clubhouse, where refreshments will be served. Tickets are $30 in advance, or $35 the day of the tour.

Details: 843-341-3818, www.hiltonheadchoralsociety.org

Have you ever tried to peel and cook chestnuts? What a chore. You can buy chestnuts already cooked and peeled at World Market for $9.99 a jar. I buy them every year, and they are delicious. I put them in our stuffing, roast them with Brussels sprouts, and eat them straight from the jar. They last for a long time if you can hide them from inquiring eyes. Of course, nothing can beat buying roasted chestnuts from a vendor on a Paris street corner, but close your eyes and dream.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.