Isla Plata is a small island located just off the coast of southern Ecuador and 1000 Km from the Galapagos, yet the islands are remarkably similar in flora and fauna. While Isla Plata really can't compete with the Galapagos...it doesn't, after all, have the famous tortoise...for the budget traveler unable to swing $2000 for the real deal, it's a great way to get a glimpse of what the fuss is about.
Much like it's more famous sister, Isla Plata can only be visited with a certified guide. While I'm not generally one for organized tours, I have to admit this was one of those instances where it was worth it. Our guide pointed out native medicinal plants and gave a detailed explanation of the breeding practices and life-cycle of the blue-footed booby. (Who named this poor creature, by the way? It's a good thing they don't have to go through human puberty with kids making up rhymes about their name!)
The boobies are so unconcerned about the human visitors that they quietly sit next to the trail posing for photos. The babies who had yet to begin molting were just adorable fuzz-balls! It was also interesting to learn that for the first year their feet are a grayish white. From there they gradually turn from turquoise to a deep blue; a process which takes about five years.
After tromping around the island for several hours in the mid-day sun, snorkeling along the reef in a protected cove was a welcome, and refreshing, activity. Clearly the green sea turtles are accustomed to the tourist schedule as they magically appeared just as we moored the boat.
I was a little annoyed to see the tour operators here still toss out food to attract the marine life. While the area is a protected national park, they obviously still have a bit to learn about the negative impact of such a controversial practice.
No comments:
Post a Comment