Gulf of Panama, Panama
On our second day in Panama we entered the Gulf of Panama and had the chance to explore several islands, all of them very different. Early in the morning we hopped on our Zodiacs and took trips around the small rocky islands of Otoque, Bona and Estiva. These three islets are a treasure trove of birdlife. As soon as we got closer the movement and the noise of seabirds called our attention. Four dominant species of birds can be found here: blue-footed boobies, brown boobies, brown pelicans and magnificent frigatebirds, along with the occasional yellow crowned heron, great blue heron and peregrine falcon.
Coming down from the neighboring northern country of Costa Rica, we were amazed by the large number of seabirds flying over the dark blue-green waters. The explanation for this surplus comes from beneath the surface. During the months of December through April, strong north-easterly trade winds remove the warm surface waters of the gulf and are replaced by the cold, dark and nutrient rich waters from below. These waters carry enough food to support large numbers of fish species which in turn support large numbers of birds. This phenomenon is called an upwelling and in the Panama Gulf region is seasonal.
We returned on board for a delicious lunch and were given a surprise by our Hotel Manager, Erasmo. His family owns a beautiful summer home on Taboga Island, once the residence of Gaugin, and as we had some time between entering the Canal and the bird islands, he was gracious enough to invite us there. The island of Taboga is a very popular summer spot for Panamanians and a very picturesque spot, filled with color, flavor and Latin feel. Walking through the narrow and warm streets of this town, we could only think of how traveling the world opens our eyes to different ways of living and teaches us about tolerance and understanding.
Back on board for a cool drink and a little rest, we waited just off the entrance to the Panama Canal, near the port of Balboa, to start our first half of the crossing of the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks.
