Today we got to see two islands in the central realm of the archipelago: North Seymour and Rabida. The first is well known to be the home for the two species of frigate birds found in Galapagos, the great frigate bird and the magnificent frigate bird. At this time of year the great frigate bird is starting its mating season, and this morning we saw a few males displaying their bright red pouches. The other species can be seen nesting throughout most of the year on North Seymour Island.
As we walked along the rocky terrain we also found Galapagos land iguanas, some of which were feeding on prickly pear cacti. Some small land birds, such as the small-beaked ground finch, were also looking for nesting material and getting ready to start building their future nest on the bushes. We saw all this activity as the rainy season is just at its very beginning.
At the end of the morning we returned aboard to have lunch and for the afternoon we anchored by the very impressive red cliffs of Rabida Island. Early this afternoon we went snorkeling in deep waters, and some of our guests also went kayaking while others went on a ride on the glass-bottom boat. As our water activities ended we returned to our ship and, after a quick shower, we landed on a bright red sandy beach. As we landed on the beach we were greeted by Galapagos sea lions and, as our walk took us further into the island, Galapagos hawks, blue-footed boobies, and brown pelicans were also observed.
Late in the afternoon we returned aboard to start with our first session of recaps while navigating away from Rabida Island.
