Saturday, September 1, 2012

Perce' - Isle Bonaventure


From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
We had heard about the island and the Gannet colony, and today's the day we take the boat out to the island and see for ourselves.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
Now on the water, the boat first takes us around the Perce' Rock. It is evident where in years gone by, this rock has broken off.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
Now alongside the far side of  Bonaventure Island, the Gannets come into view.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
It is difficult to see how big these birds are. Wing spans are up to 6 feet. Now docked, we have to hike to the opposite side of the island to get into viewing position.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
Many mother's are grooming their chicks, some still covered with down.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
Courtship rituals are still performed, even though mating season has passed.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
Here a Parc Canada Ranger holds a stuffed bird to show their size.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
After hours of bird watching, we are ready to hike this perimeter trail to see the island.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
I took the following picture of this beach while on the boat. If you look closely, you will notice the staircase running down to the beach.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure

From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
Having taken the staircase down to the beach, this is who I find sunbathing on the beach, with dozens of others in a holding pattern waiting to come to shore, wishing the people would just leave! The following pictures are views on the island, and towards shore.
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure
From Perce' Isle Bonaventure

No comments: