Dear colleagues and students,

We are writing to share an upcoming field-based learning opportunity at UC San Diego.

In 2024, a fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) off the coast of San Diego died following a confirmed ship strike. After more than two years of decomposition, the remains are now ready for excavation. This project provides a rare opportunity to examine the skeletal impacts of vessel collisions on one of the largest species on Earth.

Participants will engage in the excavation and documentation of the specimen as part of an academic course:

Course: Special Topics ANAR 100 & ANBI 100 (Summer Session I)
Dates: June 29 - August 1
Location: UC San Diego
Instructors: Dr. Margaret Morris & Dr. John Hildebrand

This hands-on course is open to students and interested members of the community with a focus on marine biology, archaeology, anatomy, and related disciplines.

For additional information or enrollment inquiries, please contact: mam132@ucsd.edu

We encourage you to share this opportunity with students and community members who may be interested. Please see syllabus and flyer attached. 

Best regards,
Vanessa ZoBell