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spotted a turtle emerging out of the water at sunset
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date: 22/2/2009
Author:Nick Brennan
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Weather: Overcast | Air Temp: 28°C | Wind: SE/E winds 10/15knots | Water Temp: 27°C | Water Visibility: ~ 20 m | Sea State: Calm
The visibility was nothing short of amazing in the water today making it beautiful for water activities. An 8ft grey reef shark was seen just off the edge of second reef giving some guests the thrill of a lifetime. It cruised up and back for a bit of a look before disappearing into the deep water. Guests described the experience as “exhilarating!” and went on to say “You told us there were sharks but not that big!”
On the morning orientation Nick was chatting to guests about bird nesting season when, right on cue, a bridled tern came and perched on a guests head. He thought it was a hilarious start to his stay on the Island.
On the Island Discovery Tour guests were fascinated by the flock of about 50 birds hovering high up in the sky. The guide informed them that they were frigate birds and that they are actually big bullies! When they hover in the sky they watch the other birds and see which ones are bringing back a successful catch. They then come down and harass that bird until it gives up it’s food or regurgitates it. It’s a feeding strategy called clepto-parasitism. The guests agreed it was very interesting and didn’t expect there was that much to it!
The evening activity was a turtle trek and guests who brought their cameras went away with plenty of memorable images. Jenni had spotted a turtle emerging out of the water at sunset and watched as she made her way slowly up the beach and found a perfect nesting spot in under an octopus bush right in front of reef unit 7. By the time everyone gathered after dinner and found out what they needed to do on the beach so that she wouldn’t be disturbed It was perfect timing everyone was able to see her lay her eggs and then fill in over the nest! Our nesting lady was taking a long time filling in we decided to head up to the northern end to release the hatchlings found while processing the emerged nests. They raced down to the water between a guard of honour of some very excited guests. Everyone then headed back to the resort side to watch the female finish up and make her way back down to the water. We are coming to the end of nesting season for this year, very shortly our ancient girls will be swimming off to wherever in the world they call home!!!
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Green Nester - Jess Howard
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