Our first ‘In Port’ Day.

No boat trips, but data analyses, reading, writing.

Tourism is steadily increasing at Mikura, not just for the dolphin watching & swimming but also for the other vistas of nature that the island offers: gigantic trees, mountain hiking, clifftop views. Each weekend presents the island with many visitors: there are ~280 residents on Mikura with weekend tourists equaling near half that number. Thus, boats are full and it is rare that we head to sea.

Therefore, poor weather or large numbers of tourists will give us 'in port' days. Data will be analyzed, summary reports started. I may visit the school to practice more 'nihongo'. And, besides sharing a bit about our ongoing field analyses (dolphin ID confirmation from video), I will also share some stories about the island – her nature, past history and people.

For today, cheers
Kathleen