North Seymour/Rabida Island
North Seymour Island was our destination this morning and we went ashore at 8:00. Because we have been experiencing rain lately, it’s very green and lush which makes it very interesting to visit from an evolution point-of-view. Everything is thriving and taking advantage of an opportunity that normally doesn’t happen. The land iguanas are having so much food with all the different types of plants, cactus, portulacas, etc.
But it is not only iguanas; we also saw the two species of frigatebirds, magnificent and great, displaying courtship behavior. It’s amazing how the females fly above the males and drive them crazy. They make a very loud call and it seems that we have gone to an opera.
There were also the always-inquisitive sea lions approaching us, sniffing some of the guest’s shoes and one even undid the shoe laces. It was a nice morning but it wasn’t finished yet. We went back on board the National Geographic Endeavour where we changed into our wet suits and went snorkeling. It was also spectacular because we saw plenty of parrot fish, Moorish idols, white-tipped reef sharks, garden eels, sea lions (who played with us) and plenty of other tropical fish.
After lunch we motored towards Rabida Island and upon arrival we divided into groups; some people went snorkeling, others went kayaking and others went to enjoy the beach. After this we all went for a very nice walk along the trails of Rabida. We found flamingos very close to edge of the lagoon; we even had to back off a bit in order to get a good focus with our cameras. Because of the rain, the island is very lush and therefore the finches are going rampant; lots of mating and also tons of fledglings.
It was an awesome day and tomorrow we will be in the western islands.
