El Barranco & Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island
El Barranco
You climb a steep staircase of rocks once you alight from the zodiac boat at El Barranco on Genovesa Island. Once at the top, you meander among the nesting Boobies, both Red-Footed, and Nazca, who are within an arm’s reach along the trail. Lots of ooh’s and aah’s looking at the baby birds nesting and at various stages of development along the path. You come to the edge of the island, offering spectacular views, and birdwatching opportunities.
Overlooking Darwin Bay, the Frigate birds' bully tactics for obtaining a meal were on full display. The Frigate bird’s superior size and astonishing aerobatics overshadowed those of the Blue-footed Boobies, making you start cheering for the underdogs. Most spectators were pretty disgusted with the relentless thievery of the Frigates, as they harassed the other birds, tugging at their tail feathers and creating a general ruckus. The Boobies, struggling to hold on to their hard-earned fish, were forced to abandon their catches or, worse yet, upchuck their meals just to rid themselves of the relentless attacks.
We caught sight of the short-eared owls with the help of our knowledgeable Naturalists, who truly deserve acting awards for their remarkable enthusiasm. Even after having brought another group to this very location just two weeks prior, their excitement was contagious as they guided us spot these well camouflaged birds.These dedicated locals spend years accumulating knowledge about the area, seamlessly pointing out the intricate details of the flora and fauna that surrounded us. Their passion for sharing the wonders of their corner of the world not only deepens our appreciation, but also enriched our adventure as we journeyed through the breathtaking landscapes.
Darwin Bay
Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island was one of our favorite days for bird sightseeing. The fluffy chicks of the Red-Footed Boobies, along with the eggs, and chicks of the Nazca Boobies were close enough to look at the birds eye-to-eye. They exhibited little fear of us, and less interest than our children when watching their favorite TV show, or really any TV show. The various species of seabirds nest and build their homes among the rugged cliffs and sandy shores, so every where you turned there were more birds in your sights. Nearby, the playful baby seals lazily bask in the warm sun, adding further joy and life to the vibrant ecosystem.
