That so many scientific, oceanographic and environmental organizations are situated in La Jolla is no accident. The area is teeming with flora and fauna and enjoys greater environmental protections due to its incredibly rich biological diversity.
Photographer Don Balch, who spends much of his time in and around the water in La Jolla, recently caught some prime examples of just how wild the waters off the coast are. A sea turtle gets eye-to-eye off La Jolla Shores. While it’s not common to come across sea turtles, Balch said, “You can be lucky enough to see one surface — and I know where to look!”
Kayakers, meanwhile, get a clear water view of leopard sharks off the Shores during the first week of November, while at La Jolla Cove, a leopard shark shows its spots.
Have you caught some rare or unusual photos of La Jolla’s wildlife? Send them in to [email protected].