The morning was sunny! And underwater visibility was minimal, though Manon was able to collect a session’s worth of underwater video data while Kathleen attempted to collect a solid set of observations from above water. Manon recorded Elli’s calf leaping while Kathleen watched (see below)! This calf leaped around the pool with Sandy for much of the morning session. The play was fun and we wished we could join in.
After breakfast, Manon and I moved rooms … we arrived 2 days before CSU and so had a room for a couple days and now are in the area we typically stay in … with a good view of Bailey’s Key! Kathleen grabbed a free ride for part of the move and then we waited an hour or so with our bags while our room was readied.
We grabbed lunch and then met the CSU group at the lobby. We showed them their rooms and then went to Bailey’s to meet the dolphins and then returned to the classroom for our evening arrival orientation (note featured photo of the group!). A bit of free time followed so everyone could get ready for dinner. Then, we spent time with the blog after dinner. See everyone’s thoughts about the day and start to our week below.
Nathalie – today was my first time seeing a dolphin and a baby dolphin and it was very exciting. Glad to be here.
Christian – I really like being on boats!
Abby – my first time leaving the country – it feels good. Also, the sunset is very pretty.
Tasha – seeing the resort gave me a second wind after a long flight.
Anson – I appreciate the lack of light pollution here. It makes it very easy to see the stars.
Caroline – I’ve been speechless and in awe all day.
Lucy – this is my first time visiting a tropical climate that does not have moss.
Laura – I loved arriving on the island and seeing all the different animals and plants and the blue waters.
Gabe – I felt very intimidated by this trip until I got here.
Anna – Everyone’s been very cool and nice and I’m excited to learn more about dolphins and do research.
Ellie – I met a dolphin with my name and learned dolphins do not have outer ears.
Don – excited for another week with great CSU students.
Paige – Arrived sleep deprived and semi-conscious but instantly rejuvenated upon seeing friends and tropical beauty.
Manon – Welcome CSU and thank you for bringing the sun!
Shane – Looking forward to another great week with the students.
Stay tuned for this CSU group’s name in the next day or so.
For now, Cheers,
Kathleen, Manon, Don & the CSU group!