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Our final day aboard National Geographic Islander started off with a moment to be treasured by all. Sometime in the early morning we gained a passenger on the Sky Deck of the vessel while we were practicing our morning Tai Chi. A passenger noticed a short-eared owl resting peacefully between two lounge chairs! The owl stayed with us for most of the day and afforded guests a beautiful look at this local sub-species. While studying the owl further we noticed some blood & feathers on the bill and on the talons of the bird, suggestive of a recent meal. After waiting and observing the bird for hours we had success! The owl regurgitated a pellet which we were able to later collect and study under the stereo-scope in detail. Owls, unable to digest bones, skin, feathers, and in this case bird bills, regurgitate these indigestibles and we were able to collect and see what the bird has been eating. In this case the pellet contained a skull and a bird bill which we think came from the White-vented Storm-Petrel.
Garner Beach was our next stop. The sea lions here are simply amazing. With well over 200 sea lions sunbathing on the beach, a leisurely stroll was a must.
An adult male was patrolling here and there, while females and their young pups were sleeping the day away. We were able to become a part of such an intimate experience with these wonderfully playful and lovable creatures. Also on the beach were the famous mockingbirds, which were more than friendly with everyone and everything! Amazingly curious and friendly, these birds made a great photo opportunity for all!
Finally, at Punta Suarez we embarked on a mission: Find the waved albatross, its nesting areas, and hopefully with some chicks as well. On the way to an area that is known for nesting albatross, we were able to enjoy many amazing observations. We had the opportunity to watch a sea lion “kindergarten” class of pups playing in the water together while a male patrolled the water in proximity. Continuing down the trail we had great opportunity to see and watch the Nazca booby on nests with eggs and with a chick. After mostly seeing these birds in the distance flying past or on the cliffs above, it was just wondrous to see them up close and personal. Finally, toward the end of the walk we came upon an adult albatross walking no more than a few feet away from us! Success! This most elegant and amazing bird of the open sea is a magical addition to our trip and a great way to end this exploration of Galápagos with the National Geographic Islander. Saying goodbye to the Galápagos we are bid goodbye by this albatross in the setting sun.
