 |
|
Friday - snake eel out on the western side of the island
|
date: 9/1/2009
Author:Nick Brennan
|
CONDITIONS
Weather: Overcast, showers, sun in the afternoon | Air Temp: 29.3°C | Wind: SE 20/30 knots | Water Temp: 26°C | Water Visibility: ~20 m | Sea State: Chop
ISLAND LIFE
Critter Encounters:
Today on the boats we saw Manta’s everywhere! Guests watched in awe as a group of four Manta Rays swam in formation right through the snorkeling area. One women described the experience as “magical!” A junior reef ranger saw some giant barracuda swimming under the boat and gave them the clever name of “Limo fish”. A huge school of big eyed trevally was also seen shooting through a small gap between the coral before making a big tornado of fish on the bottom. It made for some brilliant photos.
The Divers saw some Manta’s that swam with them for almost 20 minutes much to everyone’s amazement. A big guitarfish was also seen out at Lighthouse bommie that shot off into the deep blue.
On the Island Discovery Tour the group learnt about our rich history. Guests couldn’t believe that the Island once had so few White Capped Noddies. About halfway through the tour guests discovered some of the latest additions to Lady Elliot Island hiding under an octopus bush. They were eight brand new, very cute buff banded rail chicks that were all chasing after their mother in single file.
At Island Whispers one lady told a story about a very cheeky bird she had seen during the day. After describing the bird it became clear that it was a sooty oyster catcher. She said the bird had came and sat in the chair opposite of her as if expecting a cup of tea! Another guest also reported seeing a snake eel out on the western side of the island and they were intrigued by its movement and its black and white stripes.
On the night stalk the guests looked for Muttonbirds around the Pisonia trees. They ended up finding three that made everybody laugh with their loud creepy song. On the beach Hermit Crabs were seen scuttling their way across the coral beach. What another great day!
|
|
Mutton Birds - Jess Howard
|
click to download flash player