Although most of our field reports from Bimini revolve around boat trips searching for and observing dolphins, Monday was packed with land activities. The day began with a visit by Kel to the Coral Reef II (Shedd Aquarium). Kel visited with the first round of High School Marine Biology program participants and despite the early hour, the students were full of fantastic questions and insights. It was a struggle to wrap up after 90 minutes – we probably could have talked about dolphins all day! A huge thanks goes to the students as well as their instructors and, as always, the great boat crew.
Meanwhile, two of DCP’s 2014 summer interns were on their way south. It was Alexis’ and Amy’s first day in Bimini. For Alexis it was her first day back since August 2011 and boy was she happy to return to this beautiful little island. This was Amy’s very first time to The Bahamas, let alone Bimini, so today was an exciting day full of new sights and sounds. For both, the day began very early (3:40 and 4:20 am) leaving PA and NJ, respectively. We both arrived safe and sound to Florida; unfortunately Amy’s luggage did not seem to make the journey. Nonetheless, we met up at the airport and boarded our puddle jumper plane to Bimini. We were greeted on the island by a quick, but fierce, rain storm that passed, and then Kel and Miles! Once we settled into our new digs we began assembling brand spanking new intern bikes, yippee! Kel then briefed us on all the exciting tasks we have for the next few weeks. We ended the day with a delicious leftover dinner with Kel and Miles, followed by a beautiful sunset in our backyard! Aside from misplaced luggage, it has been a great start and we are super excited for the next few days!
Over and out,
Kel, Alexis & Amy