Genovesa Island is one of the northernmost islands and is considered a bird sanctuary. Here we find the largest colony of red-footed boobies on earth. In the morning, we had the chance to see the red-footed boobies up close. We also observed male great frigatebirds displaying their inflated red gular sacks. Mating season in the Galapagos Archipelago is a wonderful time. We observed swallow-tailed gulls all along the trail, and yellow-crowned night herons posed for eager photographers. The last day of our expedition was filled with many activities. Our guests enjoyed kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. We saved the best for last. It was a fantastic day in paradise.
6/4/2023
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National Geographic Endeavour II
North Seymour & Rabida Islands
We began our day with a landing on North Seymour, where we encountered hundreds of birds, mostly frigatebirds flying overhead. We followed a path that took us to a breeding site of blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds. We watched their mating displays in awe as nature showed us its wonderful ways. Male frigatebirds inflated their red gular sacs and stretched out their wings trying to attract a mate. Male blue-footed boobies slowing raising their cerulean feet to show a potential mate that they can fish well and support a nest. We also spotted land iguanas, marine iguanas, lava lizards, and a Galapagos racer snake along the path. We continued our navigation to Rabida Island, famous for its red sand beach, a coloration resulting from iron oxide in its volcanic soil. Those who chose to snorkel were delighted with sightings of sea turtles, sharks, Galapagos sea lions, and colorful fish. As the sun dipped into the horizon, we continued with a casual walk to a brackish pond that has a resurgent population of American flamingos, an excellent way to finish this day.
