Great Frigatebird, Land Iguana, and Lava Lizards

The male frigatebirds perch like this near their nest to rest. I am not sure, but I believe the feathers are raised and fluffy near the neck to give the bird some ventilation while resting in the hot sun.

Frigatebirds in Flight

Although there are other islands not far away, as you can see in several of the photos (including this one), North Seymour island is only about ¾ of a square mile in size. This is a mighty exposed place to imagine rearing young. Yet they do it and have done it since time immemorial.

Frigatebirds and Boobies

A female frigatebird sits on a limb near her nest.

Frigatebirds

From this close-up of the female frigatebird, you can see that they are not so dull in appearance as first looks suggest. She has a interesting combination of a blueish beak and golden head feathers along with ghostly white feet.

Leaping Lizards and Frigatebirds

After leaving Isabels Island and going back to Santa Cristóbal Island, we had one more day of exploration. This involved a boat ride to North Seymour Island. Here, we got to see a jumping lava lizard and lots of frigatebirds.

The Striated Heron

Lurking among the mangrove roots, this heron is busy searching for a meal.

Marine Iguana, Brown Pelican, and Striated Heron

I continue to be fascinated by the appearance of these iguana. Skin like armour, clawed feet, and that ridge of spines allong the back. So cool.

A Finch, an Iguana, and a Warbler

Unsurprisingly, we find a medium ground finch perched atop a cactus.

Into the Wetlands

It probably seems odd that we are taking walk to see the wetland and I start with photo of a cactus. Yet, here we are.

A Booby and Pelicans

From the one photo above, it can be hard to tell just what this booby is doing. Is he landing (badly) or taking-off? Turns out, this is a launch from sitting in the water.