Espiritu Santo

Patterns in nature can seem subtle, complex, bold, amazing and ever changing. This morning the light from the rising sun gave great color relief to the east side of Isla Espiritu Santo. The volcanic layers seemed on fire to the west. The waters were placid as the National Geographic Sea Lion made her way to the southern part of the island to a place called Bonanza Beach. This long white sand beach offers a glimpse into the desert environment of the Sea of Cortez. The plants and animals are different here than those in Magdalena Bay, where we spent the first part of our expedition. Two of the endemic mammal species were seen; the antelope ground squirrel and the black jack rabbit, both isolated over geologic time to now be considered separate from there mainland kin. Fun was had on the beach and in the arroyo with shells, skeletons, plants, and the rocks and sand themselves A cooling dip for some was only a precursor to the afternoon.

The ship was repositioned farther north to Ensenada Grande so swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and a barbeque could be organized on a small protected beach. The water was inviting so many swam the afternoon heat away until the sun set only to be followed by a rising full moon. It was quite a day in Baja California.

Jason Kelley, Naturalist; Photo of Cliffs: Becky Timbers, Steward
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