Wildlife notes

Six surfbirds visited east beach today. They are returning from their breeding grounds in Alaska and the Yukon, still dressed in their breeding plumage. They nest inland in the tundra and spend their winters very close to shore. Their non-breeding range is the narrowest and longest of any North American bird, spanning two continents, almost from tip to tip (see their range map).

Surfbirds on the east beach rocks.

The harbour seal and her pub continue to spend time on the rocks by the Energy Building.  The mother is incredibly attentive and aware of any unusual movements or sounds, just as alert as the oystercatchers.

And finally, the gull chicks. They are also incredibly cute and harmless but their parents are fierce.  The Sign gulls have moved their chicks off the rock and onto the walkway. I need to use the walkways here. Stepping off them is not always an option so there was much protest from all involved, except from the chicks which just freeze in the smallest crack or rock that will cast a shadow.

Sign gulls three chicks “hiding” at the edge of the walkway.

Facility work

• cleaned solar panels
• cleaned the Jetty camera
• topped up battery fluids

Vessels

• Ecotourism: 21
• Private: 1

Weather

Moderate WNW breeze throughout the day, strong breeze in the evening. Skies scattered clouds, clear by evening. Daytime temperatures: low 11, high 15.

The Pedder Explorer with its loading ramp lowered, taking away the old fridge and other items.