Dan Suzio Photography: Galápagos Diary, Day 12

Thursday, September 19, 2024

Galápagos Diary, Day 12

Day 12, April 23: Iguana lips

Have we seen enough sea lions, iguanas, and lava lizards? Of course not! I don't think I could ever get tired of spending time with these animals, getting to know the details of their lives.

Galápagos Sea Lions

Galápagos Sea Lion

Galápagos Sea Lions

Santa Fe Island has its own species of Land Iguana, one that Monica describes as having “the best kissing lips.” I’ve never kissed a lizard but I have to admit, they do have a beautiful smile.

Santa Fe Land Iguana

Our afternoon visit to South Plaza Island was timed for the arrival of the Red-billed Tropicbirds, which feed at sea. Around 4:00 each afternoon they start returning to their cliffside nests to settle in for the night. Of course, Tui knew exactly which bluff to shoot from for the best view in the best light.

Red-billed Tropicbird

Red-billed Tropicbirds

There were other birds, too, including Galápagos Shearwaters flying to and from the same cliffs. Holy moly, those birds are fast. If your shutter speed is slower than 1/5000 you won’t get a sharp photo, and even then it’s a struggle to get the bird in the frame. (For those who remember playing Oregon Trail, it’s a bit like shooting a squirrel. You’re surprised when you actually get one.)

Galápagos Shearwater. Yes, it's pooping.

Swallow-tailed Gull

Swallow-tailed Gulls mating

Nazca Booby

Land Iguana

On our way back to the pangas Tui was recognized by a couple in another tour group. They were thrilled, telling her what huge fans they are, showing her their copy of her bird guide, and asking how she manages to get such amazing photos. Tui enjoys the attention and at the same time she’s very modest and gracious. I’m a pretty big fan myself so I understood their reaction.