The wind was less blustery today and blew a steady 10 – 15 knots all day from the west-southwest. Even the mountains took their hats off, after a partially overcast start to the day, cleared for glorious sunshine. The barometric pressure leveled out and started to drop, late in the afternoon and the forecast is calling for clear and windy with increasing temperatures..

Only one sports fishing boat was observed in the Ecological Reserve today and the people were looking at the sealions, keeping a respectful distance and travelling slowly in reserve. No whale watchers were seen.

The elephant seal moult continues and the animals seem to really enjoy their daily swim and tussle in the tide.

It must be a relief to be supported by water and away from the flies during the daily swims.

“Circle Sister” and one of the young males practice mouthing each other in the water.

A new raft of male California Sealions arrived today and hauled out in front of the science house. One of them was branded, and it took quite a while to get a good shot of the full brand, a very pink looking brand #U792. Sometimes you just have to persevere a little longer to get what you after.

 All of the solar power means that the water tank is fuller than I have ever been able to fill it before. A good feeling, heading into drought season on this desert island. Speaking of sustainability efforts on Race Rocks, the new composting toilets seem to be working fine and the increasing temperatures will really help with the temperature dependant processes. I am considering growing a few vegetables and greens here, even if it is right against or in the house. It is so nice to be able to feed yourself with fresh food. I would wait a few years before using the humanure and get it tested but must say that the earthworms are making quick work of it.

There were no visitors today and chores were routine.