Entering the Drake: Birds, birds, birds!

It will take about four days for the ship to get from Punta Arenas, Chile, to Cape Sheriff, where we can start our zooplankton studies. Until then, all of the lab equipment is either put away or securely tied down so it doesn’t go flying around the lab when it starts to get rough.   We have been working with the other salp team to get protocols and data sheets nailed down, eating lots of chocolate chip cookies, and doing lots of bird watching!

Melissa M. on the look out for birds, with dramatic topography in the background.

This afternoon, I spent a bit of time out on deck with both of the Melissa’s.  We were just passing the Islas de Estados  which provided a beautiful backdrop.  We saw Pintado Petrels,  Black-browed Albatross, Giant Petrels, Terns, and more.  Here are some photos to help you share the experience:

 Pintado Petrel, also known as a Cape or Painted Petrel.  Looks like someone finger painted him!

 Black-browed Albatross.  Their wingspan can be up to 250cm!  They feed mostly on fish and krill.

That’s all for today!  This afternoon we will be starting XBT deployment survey of the Drake Passage.  More about that tomorrow!

Katie