This morning we awoke in the northeastern region of the Galapagos and sailed into the flooded caldera of Genovesa Island. Genovesa is home to the largest colony of red-footed boobies and frigate birds. We spent time in Darwin Bay, a white coralline beach, among nesting seabirds, curious Galapagos mockingbirds, and finches. The island has developed a reputation as “Bird Island” due to the prolific and diverse bird species that nest here.

For our last activity of the expedition, we went on a hike to obtain better views of the surrounding area. What we saw was an interesting combination of barren landscapes brought to life by thousands of birds nesting on dead-looking bushes. We spotted the famous short-eared owl, which has become a diurnal hunter due to the lack of other predators on the island, such as like the Galapagos hawk.

It has been a magical week full of memories and conservations. Our guests are leaving the Galapagos tomorrow, but the Galapagos will never leave them!