Gray whale takes a swim near Huntington Beach Pier

Huntington Beach residents shared their excitement and photos on social media Monday morning after watching a gray whale swim near the pier.

Huntington Beach Marine Safety Officer Matt Karl said he learned of the whale sighting through a photo a friend showed him on Instagram. Karl estimated the whale was about 25 feet long.

“We see a few during migratory times,� Karl said. “It’s not super uncommon, but it’s a treat every time it happens.�

Gray whales are often seen before winter as they migrate south toward Mexico. They typically return to Alaska in February and March.

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