Genovesa Island is located in the north-eastern most corner of the archipelago, and is the home for thousands of birds. We anchored here early this morning, and after breakfast we headed ashore to explore two areas known for the large colonies of red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies and great frigatebirds.
Early on, we encountered several males great frigatebirds with their red gular sacs fully inflated and their loud mating calls ready impress the females that were flying by. We got to see some of the lucky males who had found a mate, while others were just starting their courting. One of the main species of sea bird on this island is the colorful red-footed booby; we encountered several that were flying, nesting, preening, or looking after their white downy chicks. We also observed many of red-footed boobies being chased by frigatebirds, which were trying to steal fish from them. We also found the top predator on this island: the short eared owl, who was looking for storm petrels around a lava flow that is full of small holes and tunnels.
After our walks in the morning, we went snorkeling in the calm waters of this bay, and we were greatly impressed by the variety of marine life found here. One of the greatest surprises was an encounter with several scalloped hammer-head sharks, as well as a very large school of cow-nosed golden rays, with more than two hundred individuals in it.
For the afternoon, we offered several excursion options. Some went kayaking, others took a Zodiac ride, and others took a walk along the shore to enjoy the unique wildlife that is found on this island.
