With Amanda D'Aiuto, Claudine Kaplan, and Alison Whelan from Earthwatch - November 10, 2006
Dolphins and Whales of Abaco Island
Other teleconference Q&A's
Tell us about the expedition and what you liked best.
It was great to get away from the weather in New England to go down to the Bahamas in February. It was an easy transfer to the project site, which is Diane Claridge's home. Diane is the PI of this expedition. Her home is beautiful, and it's right on the beach. There are two bedrooms: one with two bunk beds, and one with two double beds. The volunteers share cooking responsibilities and space in the living room and office. Charlotte Dunn works with Diane, and the two women have been researching for their entire lives. They're also both native Bahamians and are very connected to the scientific world. Diane is a great teacher; she's clear and matter-of-fact, and she tells you what she's doing and why she's doing it. The project site feels very homey. Also in February, you miss the hurricanes.
What kinds of animals did you see?
A few whales, but in February we saw a lot more dolphins. We saw tiger sharks and nurse sharks. We saw manatees in open water, and some people just jumped in the water (at a safe distance) to see them. The birds were incredible, too. In different seasons, people have seen sperm and humpback whales, but it varies due to migration.
What does a typical day look like?
We got up for breakfast at 7:30, and we were out in the boat by 8 A.M. You pack your own lunch to eat on the boat, which you're on for about 6 hours a day. Some days, you may have only a few hours in the boat due to weather or waves. If it's too windy, you can't see the animals, and you try to find a sheltered area where you may be able to see them. If you can't, there are plenty of projects to keep you busy off the boat. There's always data input. Diane tries to co-ordinate with other scientists in the area, and last February we toured a mangrove research project being conducted in the area. Also, Diane has a large collection of shells that she's documenting, and if you like puzzles, you may like giving that a try.
What's the boat like, and how far out into the ocean do you go?
The boat is not very big; it can seat 6-7 people in the bow comfortably, and about 4 people in the back. We go out as far as we need to track the animals, which is often so far out that we can no longer see land. It can get cool out on the boat, so dress in layers.
What kind of work do you do on the boat?
We kept our eyes peeled for dolphins, and took pictures of them. We saw dolphins very frequently, and learned to recognize individual dolphins by the shape of their dorsal fins and their scars. Charlotte has a sonophone to listen to the whales, and it's really cool! You can listen to the underworld of the ocean. If you can hear boat motors, you'll know why you haven't been seeing any dolphins around.
What is there to do when we're not in the boat?
You can use one of the sea kayaks and spend the day kayaking. There was one day when some people went snorkeling. There's so much to do and so much to learn, you can't get bored. The team leaders are very knowledgeable of the variable weather conditions and have a good overview of the ecology of the area, and there are a lot of scientists working in the area. There will be a lot of options for projects. You will also have to do chores such as watering the garden or sweeping the living room: general upkeep. The site is remote, so there isn't a lot of entertainment. The closest village doesn't have any stores, and only has a few places to eat and get a drink, but it's also an hour away. Bring stuff to do: knitting, puzzles, games, cards. You can take a walk on the beach at night, have a drink, and sleep. There were also a few evening presentations by Diane.
Talk to me about the food!
We packed our own lunches, which was lunch meats, granola bars, chips, and fruit. For dinner, we paired up and cooked our favorite dishes. The food was really great.
What was the most challenging part of the expedition?
Dealing with the sand flies. Some people get them and some people don't. It's best to cover up to prevent them from getting to your skin. They don't bother you out on the boat. If you are easily irritated by bug bites, bring an anti-itch medication, whether a cream or a pill.
Can I use my cell phone there?
You need to check with your service provider. There's really limited contact with the mainland in this remote area. Of course, for emergencies, you'll be able to contact people. If you give your family Earthwatch's phone number, we'll be able to reach you in the field. There is internet access available ONLY for emergencies.
What kinds of people go on this expedition?
On my team last February, there was one corporate fellow, a couple who had gone on three previous expeditions, and a retired gentleman. The range of ages is usually pretty broad because it's a dolphin expedition that isn't too far away. Lots of volunteers are people traveling on their own. Older people should make sure that they're comfortable getting in and out of boats before they sign up for this expedition.
Was there anything unexpected about the expedition, and was there anything you wish you had brought?
It was colder than I thought it would be, so I wished I had brought earmuffs and a hat. I did dress in layers, and I used every piece of long-sleeved clothing I brought. Being on the boat was colder than staying still. I was also surprised by the number of other projects to do besides tracking the mammals.
Was there anything else about this expedition we should know?
Diane is very connected to the town, and the people were very friendly. The entire experience was great.