Get involved: greet the grunion & FAQs
Volunteer to be a Grunion Greeter
Grunion Greeters experience a grunion run as they witness the remarkable behavior of these silvery little fish coming ashore to spawn on sandy beaches at night.
Observations you make on your local sandy beach contribute to our understanding of this unique natural resource.
Volunteer community scientists--Grunion Greeters—provide vital observations and information by collecting data during spawning runs. Reports submitted online are used for research and beach management.
Research studies include population assessment of the grunion throughout their range in California, staging tables for embryonic development, effects of altered salinity, comparisons of microsatellite DNA between populations, hatching mechanisms, and evaluation of grunion spawning runs as potential indicators for the ecological health of sandy beaches.
Greeters monitor grunion at a beach of their choice for specific dates and times when the grunion are most likely to appear. The data are sent online through an interactive questionnaire, making it available instantaneously for use by scientists, beach managers, government agencies and environmental organizations—all cooperating to ensure protection of incubating eggs on shore and continued conservation of this remarkable fish.
Anyone can greet the grunion. View Melissa's video below for instructions on how to make observations and report your data. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, but youngsters can join parents on the beach. Send an email to Melissa (melissastuder_at_beachecologycoalition.org) if you have any questions or want to be on the mailing list for volunteer opportunities.
Grunion Greeters experience a grunion run as they witness the remarkable behavior of these silvery little fish coming ashore to spawn on sandy beaches at night.
Observations you make on your local sandy beach contribute to our understanding of this unique natural resource.
Volunteer community scientists--Grunion Greeters—provide vital observations and information by collecting data during spawning runs. Reports submitted online are used for research and beach management.
Research studies include population assessment of the grunion throughout their range in California, staging tables for embryonic development, effects of altered salinity, comparisons of microsatellite DNA between populations, hatching mechanisms, and evaluation of grunion spawning runs as potential indicators for the ecological health of sandy beaches.
Greeters monitor grunion at a beach of their choice for specific dates and times when the grunion are most likely to appear. The data are sent online through an interactive questionnaire, making it available instantaneously for use by scientists, beach managers, government agencies and environmental organizations—all cooperating to ensure protection of incubating eggs on shore and continued conservation of this remarkable fish.
Anyone can greet the grunion. View Melissa's video below for instructions on how to make observations and report your data. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, but youngsters can join parents on the beach. Send an email to Melissa (melissastuder_at_beachecologycoalition.org) if you have any questions or want to be on the mailing list for volunteer opportunities.
Become a Grunion Greeter
Join a diverse team of citizen scientists from many different communities and organizations along the coast of California. Fun, brief workshops prepare you to monitor beach-spawning populations of the California grunion Leuresthes tenuis. Your observations, sightings, and comments become part of a database using interactive web-based questionnaires and e-mail. This multi-year state-wide assessment program has increased public awareness and improved management efforts to protect and conserve wildlife and beach habitats.
The first systematic study of the impact of beach grooming on the sandy beach habitat of this unique fish was conducted in 2002. The study originated in San Diego after concern that beach grooming practices were harming grunion eggs incubating beneath the surface of the sand during spawning season. A massive collaboration of concerned residents, numerous scientists, agencies and organizations, and hundreds of volunteers were involved. The results implemented significant and lasting change in official beach grooming procedures in San Diego and other municipalities throughout California, along with the formation of the Beach Ecology Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving ecological beach management. See their website for more info.
Join a diverse team of citizen scientists from many different communities and organizations along the coast of California. Fun, brief workshops prepare you to monitor beach-spawning populations of the California grunion Leuresthes tenuis. Your observations, sightings, and comments become part of a database using interactive web-based questionnaires and e-mail. This multi-year state-wide assessment program has increased public awareness and improved management efforts to protect and conserve wildlife and beach habitats.
The first systematic study of the impact of beach grooming on the sandy beach habitat of this unique fish was conducted in 2002. The study originated in San Diego after concern that beach grooming practices were harming grunion eggs incubating beneath the surface of the sand during spawning season. A massive collaboration of concerned residents, numerous scientists, agencies and organizations, and hundreds of volunteers were involved. The results implemented significant and lasting change in official beach grooming procedures in San Diego and other municipalities throughout California, along with the formation of the Beach Ecology Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving ecological beach management. See their website for more info.
Frequently Asked Questions |
Q: When is the best time to see a grunion run?
A: The grunion may run from March through August on nights following a full or new moon. "Peak" spawning season during the months of April, May and June is your best bet. Runs tend to be larger and more consistent during peak season, and it is also closed for fishing so the runs are not disturbed. The predicted spawning schedule published by California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (see California Grunion: Facts and Expected Runs) includes four nights following the full or new moon. The third and fourth nights tend to be better, but not always. The grunion may run anytime within a two-hour window after high tide so be prepared and be patient.
Q: When do the grunion run?
A: Typically, California Grunion run between the months of March and August, with peak runs in April, May and June. Possible nights for runs are forecast in advance because of the regularity of the grunion following the highest tides of new and full moons. Scheduled Runs For the Current Year, California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Q: Where is the best spot to see a grunion run?
A: There is no "best" spot! As we say, only the fish know where they'll show up on any given forecast run night. However, they do prefer flat, sandy beaches, surf breaks, and areas without a lot of flashing light, noise and activity. The largest runs occur in southern CA but smaller runs can occur farther north. Conditions at each beach constantly change, so we cannot recommend a specific beach in your area. Also, beach curfews vary between locations, so please look into local regulations before heading out. Lastly, once you choose a beach, we suggest you head to a quiet area away from any crowds and noise. Grunion are less likely to run in areas with a lot of disturbance.
Q: Where can I find out where they ran last time so I know where to try next time?
A: Reports of runs are not available to the public. The grunion are neither more or less likely to run again at the same beach the next night in any case. Keep in mind, the fish are wildlife! Follow the tips and bring a bit of luck in your back pocket.
Q: Do you offer any guided grunion run programs?
A: We do not offer public programs but a few organizations do, including Cabrillo Aquarium, Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association, and Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Please check with those organizations to see a schedule.
Q: How can I be a Grunion Greeter volunteer?
A: Volunteers must be at least 18 and observe a training workshop or video each year. If you'd like to be added to our mailing list please send a message to Melissa (melissastuder_at_beachecologycoalition.org) if you have any questions or for volunteer opportunities.
Q: I went to the beach on a night they were supposed to run. Why didn't I see any fish?
A: If the beach was crowded, and there was a large noisy crowd, they may have discouraged fish from coming ashore. Also, grunion may run any time within a two-hour window after high tide. You may have arrived too late or left too early. In addition, sometimes the fish simple do not show up! Those of us in the Grunion Greeters have ourselves been "skunked" many times. This is why the grunion are often considered elusive.
Q: What about fishing for grunion?
A: Grunion are an extremely vulnerable species, and part of a unique southern Californian culture that we hope to preserve. They are also an important part of the food web, with predators such as endangered shore birds, marine mammals, sharks, and many other species. They are found nowhere else in the world and represent a rare opportunity to experience wildlife right at your feet.
The months of April, May, and June are closed season for grunion, when no take or contact of any kind is allowed. During Closed Season, avoid disturbing the spawning fish and encourage others to do the same. This is usually the best time to observe an undisturbed spawning run.
The National Marine Fisheries Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration define TAKE as: "to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct."
In March, July, and August grunion fishing is permitted during open season but with restrictions. During open season, follow the Fish and Wildlife Regulations: Bare hands only, and never take more fish than you need, or more than 30 in one night. Anyone 16 or older must have a valid California marine fishing license. No gear of any kind can ever be used including nets, hooks, traps, buckets for scooping--only your bare hands may be used. The law also stipulates that you may only take what you plan to use, with a limit of 30 grunion per person per day.
We encourage "observe and conserve" or “catch and release”.
If you observe poaching out of season, or any violations of grunion fishing regulations such as use of gear or nets at any time, please advise the California Department of Fish and Wildlife via https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Enforcement/CalTIP or call their hotline, 1-888-DFG-CALTIP (1-888-334-2258). We advocate "observe and conserve." Please enjoy!
A: The grunion may run from March through August on nights following a full or new moon. "Peak" spawning season during the months of April, May and June is your best bet. Runs tend to be larger and more consistent during peak season, and it is also closed for fishing so the runs are not disturbed. The predicted spawning schedule published by California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (see California Grunion: Facts and Expected Runs) includes four nights following the full or new moon. The third and fourth nights tend to be better, but not always. The grunion may run anytime within a two-hour window after high tide so be prepared and be patient.
Q: When do the grunion run?
A: Typically, California Grunion run between the months of March and August, with peak runs in April, May and June. Possible nights for runs are forecast in advance because of the regularity of the grunion following the highest tides of new and full moons. Scheduled Runs For the Current Year, California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Q: Where is the best spot to see a grunion run?
A: There is no "best" spot! As we say, only the fish know where they'll show up on any given forecast run night. However, they do prefer flat, sandy beaches, surf breaks, and areas without a lot of flashing light, noise and activity. The largest runs occur in southern CA but smaller runs can occur farther north. Conditions at each beach constantly change, so we cannot recommend a specific beach in your area. Also, beach curfews vary between locations, so please look into local regulations before heading out. Lastly, once you choose a beach, we suggest you head to a quiet area away from any crowds and noise. Grunion are less likely to run in areas with a lot of disturbance.
Q: Where can I find out where they ran last time so I know where to try next time?
A: Reports of runs are not available to the public. The grunion are neither more or less likely to run again at the same beach the next night in any case. Keep in mind, the fish are wildlife! Follow the tips and bring a bit of luck in your back pocket.
Q: Do you offer any guided grunion run programs?
A: We do not offer public programs but a few organizations do, including Cabrillo Aquarium, Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association, and Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Please check with those organizations to see a schedule.
Q: How can I be a Grunion Greeter volunteer?
A: Volunteers must be at least 18 and observe a training workshop or video each year. If you'd like to be added to our mailing list please send a message to Melissa (melissastuder_at_beachecologycoalition.org) if you have any questions or for volunteer opportunities.
Q: I went to the beach on a night they were supposed to run. Why didn't I see any fish?
A: If the beach was crowded, and there was a large noisy crowd, they may have discouraged fish from coming ashore. Also, grunion may run any time within a two-hour window after high tide. You may have arrived too late or left too early. In addition, sometimes the fish simple do not show up! Those of us in the Grunion Greeters have ourselves been "skunked" many times. This is why the grunion are often considered elusive.
Q: What about fishing for grunion?
A: Grunion are an extremely vulnerable species, and part of a unique southern Californian culture that we hope to preserve. They are also an important part of the food web, with predators such as endangered shore birds, marine mammals, sharks, and many other species. They are found nowhere else in the world and represent a rare opportunity to experience wildlife right at your feet.
The months of April, May, and June are closed season for grunion, when no take or contact of any kind is allowed. During Closed Season, avoid disturbing the spawning fish and encourage others to do the same. This is usually the best time to observe an undisturbed spawning run.
The National Marine Fisheries Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration define TAKE as: "to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct."
In March, July, and August grunion fishing is permitted during open season but with restrictions. During open season, follow the Fish and Wildlife Regulations: Bare hands only, and never take more fish than you need, or more than 30 in one night. Anyone 16 or older must have a valid California marine fishing license. No gear of any kind can ever be used including nets, hooks, traps, buckets for scooping--only your bare hands may be used. The law also stipulates that you may only take what you plan to use, with a limit of 30 grunion per person per day.
We encourage "observe and conserve" or “catch and release”.
If you observe poaching out of season, or any violations of grunion fishing regulations such as use of gear or nets at any time, please advise the California Department of Fish and Wildlife via https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Enforcement/CalTIP or call their hotline, 1-888-DFG-CALTIP (1-888-334-2258). We advocate "observe and conserve." Please enjoy!
The Grunion Greeters Project
Grunion Greeters: Citizen Science on the Beach was developed in partnership with NOAA/National Marine Fisheries Service Southwest Region, Habitat Conservation Division.
Pepperdine University researchers work with volunteers from the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Surfrider Foundation, Santa Barbara Channelkeeper, Heal The Bay (Santa Monica), Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific, California Department of Fish and Game, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, California Sea Grant College, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, are conducting a project involving hundreds of volunteers to study the spawning activity and habitat of grunion.
Grunion Greeters observe small stretches of beach on nights of grunion runs during peak spawning season from April through early June. Grunion runs occur at night, a few nights per month, after the highest tides associated with a full or new moon. For a full-color brochure with pictures download this PDF. (también disponible en español)
We Thank Our Project partners
Pepperdine University, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, Surfrider Foundation, Santa Barbara Channel Keeper, Santa Barbara Natural History Museum/Ty Warner Sea Center, Heal The Bay/Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, Port of Oakland, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, Southwest Wetlands Interpretive Association, Ocean Institute at Dana Point, Audubon Society, City of San Diego, California Department of Fish and Game, US Fish and Wildlife Service, California State Parks, California Coastal Commission, County of Orange, Los Angeles County Beaches and Harbors, California Coastal Coalition, Ventura County Coastal Coalition, Orange County Coastal Coalition, East Bay Regional Parks, District, Point Reyes National Seashore, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and Lawson’s Landing, California Sea Grant College, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Pepperdine University, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, Surfrider Foundation, Santa Barbara Channel Keeper, Santa Barbara Natural History Museum/Ty Warner Sea Center, Heal The Bay/Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, Port of Oakland, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, Southwest Wetlands Interpretive Association, Ocean Institute at Dana Point, Audubon Society, City of San Diego, California Department of Fish and Game, US Fish and Wildlife Service, California State Parks, California Coastal Commission, County of Orange, Los Angeles County Beaches and Harbors, California Coastal Coalition, Ventura County Coastal Coalition, Orange County Coastal Coalition, East Bay Regional Parks, District, Point Reyes National Seashore, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and Lawson’s Landing, California Sea Grant College, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
We Thank Our Hosts for Past Grunion Greeters Workshops
Pepperdine University, Malibu
Buena Vista Audubon Club, Oceanside (San Diego)
Heal the Bay/Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
Tijuana Estuary Visitors Center, Imperial Beach (San Diego)
Muth Interpretive Center, Newport Beach
Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach
Birch Aquarium at Scripps, La Jolla (San Diego)
Oxnard College Marine Center
UC Santa Barbara Marine Science Institute
Ocean Institute in Dana Point
Mira Costa College
Santa Barbara Channel Keepers
Surfrider Foundation
Port of Oakland
Pacific Grove Museum
We Thank Our Hosts for Past Grunion Greeters Workshops
Pepperdine University, Malibu
Buena Vista Audubon Club, Oceanside (San Diego)
Heal the Bay/Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
Tijuana Estuary Visitors Center, Imperial Beach (San Diego)
Muth Interpretive Center, Newport Beach
Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach
Birch Aquarium at Scripps, La Jolla (San Diego)
Oxnard College Marine Center
UC Santa Barbara Marine Science Institute
Ocean Institute in Dana Point
Mira Costa College
Santa Barbara Channel Keepers
Surfrider Foundation
Port of Oakland
Pacific Grove Museum