Day 9 - June 15: "Friggin Boobies"

We're a bit behind on our postings due to problems with the internet satellite-uplink over the past few days. But here goes.......

Today our group split in half in order to either take the boat out to Green Cay and White Cay or go by truck to a new patch reef we hadn’t visited yet. The first group was dropped off by the Grahams Harbor dock to pile onto a boat to go to Green Cay and White Cay, islands off the coast that are known for the unique creatures that inhabit them. The first cay we went to was Green Cay which is home to the rare Bahamian Rock Iguana. They are known to eat the cactus flowers and were very approachable, as they are often feed by tourists. After being attacked by nesting Bridled terns, we made our way to the other side of the cay and ventured down into a cave-like dissolution feature that was shaped by years of wave energy pounding the rocks. On our way back to the boat, we were lucky enough to spot a tern defending its nest which is just bare rock. Sylvie, the local’s favorite, had the opportunity to drive the boat to White Cay. We may have feared for our lives momentarily, but we made it there alive and in one piece.

As we arrived at White Cay, our captain pointed out the frigate birds and brown footed boobies or as he called them “Friggin Boobies.” that were nesting on the island. The rocky shore was spotted with massive numbers of Sally Light Foot crabs and we were able to see some young frigate bird chicks. The smell however, was not so pleasant. Following this we were able to snorkel at the offshore fringing reef. Almost immediately we spotted several giant Caribbean Spiny Lobsters. There was an abundance of Parrot Fish, Blue Chromis, Elkhorn Coral, and Blue Tangs. We also spotted an eel and a few trumpet fish. We headed back in for lunch before going out by truck for the afternoon adventure.

With Dr. Cross as our driver, we made our way to Lindsey Reef. At the reef we spotted a Peacock Flounder, a Great Barracuda, and a Hawksbill Sea Turtle. We were reluctant to leave and relaxed for awhile in the water. After a long day we were eager to head to Cockburn Town and stock up on snacks. Nearby we visited a fossilized reef that flourished when sea was much higher.

For dinner we made our way to the Short Stop where we enjoyed a Bahamian meal that included conch fritters, spicy mac and cheese, and grouper, with a delicious guava duff for dessert. While we were there we met some of the British students that had just arrived earlier that day. All in all, it was an interesting night and was deemed the American Revolution all over again.