Jennifer, Pacific side of Baja is very different. The water is cold this
time of year, 50-65 degrees F typically, although it warms up to 80+ in
summer. Shell fauna is mix of northern and southern forms, abalones and
murexes, for example. Because the coastline is often rocky and the surf
rough, beach shelling is hit or miss. I was there in February (as far south
as Bahia Magdalena) and we saw few "special" shells. Much better shelling in
summer and on Gulf side. Check out old scallop dumps near Playa Coyote south
of Mulege or snorkel anywhere in Bahia Concepcion. Even the Gulf waters were
much colder in February than normal. Wetsuit is definitely advisable.
 
Doug Campbell
Wilson, Wyoming
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Jennifer Hanhila <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, March 29, 1999 10:18 AM
Subject: books, etc.
 
 
> Good morning,
>      I was wondering if anyone knows of an identification book which
> indexes according to zone.  I know that the zone for each shell can be
> found, but thought this might be a handy "tool" for someone visiting a
> particular zone.  As I mentioned the other day, we are going to drive
> the length of Baja.  I believe that area is "Panamic".  Does this term
> include both the east coast and the west coasts of Baja?  Is there a
> book about Panamic shells?  Is there a book about the shells of Baja?
>      Also, as a shell lover but not a scientific student of shells I
> enjoy reading the Conch-L entries.  I was wondering, however, if any of
> you are aware of a list that might be geared to the "less informed"
> collector.  I would enjoy reading about what people find and where they
> find them.  I really enjoyed the "Simon" entries.  I could almost feel
> that I was there.  Considering where I live, that was a real treat.
>      Thanks again for your help.
> Jennifer (in Phoenix where it's perfect, but I definitely will not be
> saying that in 2 1/2 months)
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