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Thursday - adorable Green Tree Frogs
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date: 28/8/2008
Author:Jess Howard
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CONDITIONS
Weather: Warm and sunny, scattered clouds | Air Temp: 23oC | Wind: SE/E 10/15 knots | Water Temp: 21oC | Water Visibility: 25m | Sea State: Calm, clear and beautiful… Simply amazing!
ISLAND LIFE
Critter Encounters:
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Lady Elliot on a day like today was truly breathtaking …. A dazzling sunrise shimmering over the lagoon greeted the early risers this morning as there was not a breath of air disturbing the speckles of light dancing off the wavelets, setting the scene for a perfect morning in paradise. The splendor of clear blue skies and calm turquoise blue waters beckoned our guests to take advantage of the rise of the high tide in the morning, to witness the morning feed frenzies by our lagoon residents. WOW what a way to start the day one guest explained …… A perfect morning making way to majestic day!!
On the nightstalk last night came upon two very adorable Green Tree Frogs gathered in a damp area on the western side of the island, looking slightly brown, hopefully the few sprinkles of rain last night gave them enough water to make them green again.
An early morning glimpse of the newest addition to the Tropic bird family was a wonderful way to start the morning. The young chick was alone early this morning, then joined again by both parents and hidden beneath a wing for the rest of the day. One pair displayed a marvelous hour-length courtship in the afternoon. Lots of squawking! The bird watching walk encountered the common Buff-Banded Rails, European House sparrows, Reef Egrets and Silver Gulls. The exciting find today was a Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike who dropped in for a quick visit before flying off again.
In the afternoon, a Starry Moray Eel was spotted, giving reef walkers a buzz of excitement. Glassbottom boat riders reported finding a “massive” Cowtail ray resting on the sandy bottom through the glass of Elliot One. He created a huge rush to jump in the water to see what else could be found…or heard. Exhilarated visitors were animated in describing the songs of the Humpback whales heard not even a metre underwater, and the delightful somersaults performed by one Hawksbill turtle.
The day ended with the sight of more White Capped Noddies flocking to the island is preparation for the upcoming nesting season.
So once again, with all our famed and fabulous creatures, Lady Elliot is simply a magical place to be!
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Red Tailed Tropic Bird Chick - Wayne Fox
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