Fernandina Island
Fernandina Island, located in the western part of the Galapagos Archipelago, is one of the most beautiful and pristine islands in the world. This island is, geologically speaking, very young. It is only estimated to be approximately 300,000 years old. Breathtaking black lava landscapes amalgamated with the most beautiful animal species you can imagine make a very dramatic combination. A visit to Fernandina is like going back in time. It is as if we were on an imaginary trip to the beginning of life on Earth.
A fine misty rain accompanied us the whole afternoon. This rain, known locally as “garua,” added a magical touch to the whole experience. Large marine iguanas were everywhere (see today’s photo). Sleepy sea lions were resting after a long day. Some juveniles still had enough energy to continue playing in intertidal pools. A curious hawk was perched on a tree keeping an eye on us. We had a special encounter with a pair of American oystercatchers who were with two very young chicks. Some of us watched in delight as one of the adult oystercatchers fed the chicks right in front of us.
The day was almost over. Blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins had chosen their roosts and were getting ready for the night. It was truly awe-inspiring to watch flocks of them settling along the coastline. Late afternoon in Galapagos can be spectacular and is one of my favorite parts of the day. We returned to the ship with our hearts filled with the joy of knowing that we are fortunate to be visiting such an untouched and astonishing place.
Fernandina Island, located in the western part of the Galapagos Archipelago, is one of the most beautiful and pristine islands in the world. This island is, geologically speaking, very young. It is only estimated to be approximately 300,000 years old. Breathtaking black lava landscapes amalgamated with the most beautiful animal species you can imagine make a very dramatic combination. A visit to Fernandina is like going back in time. It is as if we were on an imaginary trip to the beginning of life on Earth.
A fine misty rain accompanied us the whole afternoon. This rain, known locally as “garua,” added a magical touch to the whole experience. Large marine iguanas were everywhere (see today’s photo). Sleepy sea lions were resting after a long day. Some juveniles still had enough energy to continue playing in intertidal pools. A curious hawk was perched on a tree keeping an eye on us. We had a special encounter with a pair of American oystercatchers who were with two very young chicks. Some of us watched in delight as one of the adult oystercatchers fed the chicks right in front of us.
The day was almost over. Blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins had chosen their roosts and were getting ready for the night. It was truly awe-inspiring to watch flocks of them settling along the coastline. Late afternoon in Galapagos can be spectacular and is one of my favorite parts of the day. We returned to the ship with our hearts filled with the joy of knowing that we are fortunate to be visiting such an untouched and astonishing place.
