Isla Santa Catalina
Morning saw us in the vicinity of Isla Monserrat. We were looking for charismatic megafauna. In the distance we saw a blow and headed in that direction, but it was not to be. The whale had disappeared. First we saw a young bottlenose dolphin, which came up to our boat and began bow riding us for a while. We slowly moved around the area of Isla del Carmen, and eventually started heading towards the farther-off island of Santa Catalina.
By lunchtime we were anchored in Elephant Bay, where we were to spend the afternoon. Here we snorkeled, watching a great number of tropical and semi-tropical fishes, urchins and sea stars. At the same time we had a group of long hikers head inland, on a long walk. Shorter groups started out also, as well as a leisurely hike. All of us had the opportunity to see the wonderful flora of the island, especially the cacti. This island sports the giant barrel cactus, as well as an enormous number of other cacti, including the cardon, the sour pitahaya, and the cholla. Quite a few plants were in bloom, as a few months ago there were generous rains on the Peninsula. Others of us took Zodiac tours in the area. But what is interesting to note for this island, is the high number of endemics, among which are to rattle-less rattlesnake, the emerald-tailed lizard, chuckwallas, as well as the only native mammal, Slevin’s deer mouse.
Years ago the fishermen of the area let go unto this marvelous island (as well as all others), house cats. These animals almost led the endemics to extinction, until a few years ago, when all the cats of the island were eliminated. Immediately the reptile population began a slow comeback, as well as the mouse population.
