Genovesa Island
Today we sailed into the giant underwater caldera of Genovesa. Here we saw many impressive bird species. Red-footed boobies were abundant, nesting in the red mangrove bushes along the beach. We also observed male frigate birds inflating their brilliant red chests to attract female mates. In addition, we saw Nazca boobies, and some of the trip’s members were lucky enough to spot the elusive short-eared owl.
After the beach walk, we snorkeled in the surprisingly warm waters of the bay. We spotted flounder, yellow puffer fish, fur seals, sea lions, and the occasional Galápagos and hammerhead sharks.
Later, from our kayaks, we watched boobies dive for fish, as frigate birds tried to steal their hard-won food. Kayaking back to the Polaris, we were treated to a delicious BBQ on the Teak Deck. Following dinner, one of the naturalists, Franklin Ramirez, showed us some of the constellations unique to the equator (the Big Dipper is upside down!!)
Today we sailed into the giant underwater caldera of Genovesa. Here we saw many impressive bird species. Red-footed boobies were abundant, nesting in the red mangrove bushes along the beach. We also observed male frigate birds inflating their brilliant red chests to attract female mates. In addition, we saw Nazca boobies, and some of the trip’s members were lucky enough to spot the elusive short-eared owl.
After the beach walk, we snorkeled in the surprisingly warm waters of the bay. We spotted flounder, yellow puffer fish, fur seals, sea lions, and the occasional Galápagos and hammerhead sharks.
Later, from our kayaks, we watched boobies dive for fish, as frigate birds tried to steal their hard-won food. Kayaking back to the Polaris, we were treated to a delicious BBQ on the Teak Deck. Following dinner, one of the naturalists, Franklin Ramirez, showed us some of the constellations unique to the equator (the Big Dipper is upside down!!)
