Dorado and Zapote Rivers
A main part of our story for today was the incredible annual fluctuation in the water levels in the rivers here. On average, the rivers here rise and fall about thirty feet. This was very evident today with the massive amount of trees floating downriver. As well, the high water mark, stained by the tannins in the water, was quite noticeable about fifteen feet above our heads. As the waters slowly rise, new areas are being opened for our exploration. And, we added a bit locally to the water rise with a terrific downpour.
Our early morning exploration of the Dorado River was either by skiff or by kayak. In the kayaks, we were able to paddle amongst the flooded forest. This was a spectacular way to experience the forest here, quietly paddling amongst the tangles of vegetation. Caciques and trogons showed off their brilliant colors, while Horned Screamers loudly brayed from high perches. Kingfishers and flycatchers appeared to be on every branch, and many Muscovy Ducks were flying around. At the end of our paddle, as we quietly sat amongst the water hyacinth a group of Giant River Otters were spotted. At least six of these shy animals were a bit curious of us alien intruders to their world.
For the afternoon, the Zapote River was our destination. A couple of afternoon showers appeared to be clearing so we set out. Sloths and iguanas were abundant, along with many herons and hawks. A single Monk Saki was curled up in a ball, while a large group of Squirrel Monkeys used a long branch as a super highway. As darkness descended, we began to search for night creatures. However, the skies opened up into a full on tropical downpour. As we huddled like hobbits under our hoods, our guides stood on the bows of the skiffs, still searching for more wildlife. Somehow, Adonai spotted and grabbed a caiman, allowing for close inspection. We then hightailed it back to the Delfin II, with our expert skiff drivers safely navigating while we all escaped inside our ponchos. It certainly felt great to return to the comforts of our ship, and another delicious meal.
