Day 2 San Cristobal Island Galapagos

Finding the internet may be a little tougher than I thought here on the islands... but I'll try to do my best.  I'm sitting near an ice cream shop now that was kind enough to give me their pw "sealion100" :-) - may have to buy some ice cream though - it's worth it. The town that I'm at right now is called Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal Island Galapagos which has a population of about 8,000 people - of those that I have met they seem to be very friendly. All of Galapagos has about 20,000 +/-

"May I Introduce to You, the "Galapagos"" 

Today was a wondrous day... a day that I've been waiting a long time to witness.  The best part about this adventure is going to be the fact that I can now experience and relate to what I've been teaching about evolution in the classroom; can't wait to share the enthusiasm when I get back. Nearly a few hours after I got here... I went to a nearby beach and observed the iguanas, prickly-pear trees, frigatebirds and a few different species of finches.  Also did some snorkeling and observed several types of fish, sea urchins, and a ray similar to a sting-ray called an "eagle ray".  Overall, the first main day on the islands has been a hit. The weather is very warm and humid.  Oh, the lava rocks along the coast made it a little difficult to walk but it was worth getting some pics of the iguanas and black crabs.  Oh, almost forgot... so many sea-lions - 100's...  Ill try uploading pics when the internet is better

Lizards come to the shelter of the bushes along the beach during the night.  They leave it to feed on algae under water in the morning and afternoon.

Notice how well they blend into the rocks for protection.  They will also sunbathe to energize themselves since they are ectothermic.  Also these guys can hold their breath af or about 15-20 min in search of food (algae). They typically live for about 10-12 years; unlike their land cousins that can live almost 2x longer (due to a better variety of diet I've been told)

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Sea Lion basking in the sun.  This was one of several on the beach that day. Again, you could literally touch them if  you wanted, but again... highly highly not recommended.  In fact, I noticed a park ranger off to the side under a tree to keep an eye out for those that violate the island's law.

The first marine iguana I saw ..... excellent !