As clear as the sky was last night it was that cloudy this morning! But as the day wore on, the sun came out and we had a very hot day. Rabida Island is a very small island with a bright red beach due to the abundance of iron in the rock. We took all of our snorkeling gear with us to the island but went on a hike until the day warmed up more.
Today's lesson was about the finches found on this island. Even though only one type of finch first came to the island, three distinct lines of finches have evolved with as many as 6 varieties in each line. Most of the differences focused on the size and shape of their beaks which are used in different ways to get their food.
Then we had the most amazing experience snorkling in the bay. The water was clear and smooth and the variety of fish and marine life was numerous!
As we lunched and napped, the boat moved to Santa Cruz Island and parked near Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill). In a brackish lagoon we watched 6 pink flamingos scoop up mud and crustasions in their long beaks. Later we heard the cry of a baby goat and the bray of a donkey. Both are wild, feral animals on this island and currently are a controlled population.
Our days have taken on a routine with breakfast at 7:30, first morning activity at 8:30, second morning activity (usually aquatic), lunch then two seperate afternoon activities one of which might be aquatic or a talk or movie. There are three naturalists who take groups ashore for each activity. At 7:15 we attend a briefing for the next day then supper at 7:30. Breakfast and lunch are buffets and dinner is a choice of meat, fish or pasta. A couple of times during the day we are served snacks if we want one.
At the end of the day, we are tired and ready for early bedtime.
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