Friday, July 20, 2012

Protected Species

A few weeks ago, I traveled through Elkhorn Slough in a large pontoon boat that can probably hold up to 30 people.
Workers from the National Marine Sanctuary kept a close eye on visitors to ensure the wildlife are not disturbed.


We spotted Brandt's Cormorants that have occupied a wooden pier.


A raft of sea lions invaded a man-made island. Their overcrowded quarter appears to be quite uncomfortable.


Whereas these sea lions with plenty of elbow room live harmoniously with the pelicans.


A group of sea otters have not a care in the world, just a simple life to lie in the water and enjoy their seafood meals.


- Karen


8 comments:

Jenny Woolf said...

Wonderful to be out there on the lake! wow. I'm envious of that guy.

roentare said...

A journey through your travel. Very pleasant viewing

Anonymous said...

It's a wonderful journey. I envy you. Have a wonderful weekend.

Anonymous said...

So many different types of wildlife to see. All those seals crammed onto the island is incredible!

rainfield61 said...

Different categories, different life styles.

Zenserly said...

there are so many of them and each unique creature you captured seem to be having a grand time staying close to each other...I love most the photo of the sea lions living in harmony with the pelicans :-)

ArtandArchitecture-SF.com said...

I haven't been in Elkhorn Slough in 20 years. It is really nice to see the improvements and the park's protection. I am very impressed you had the guts to take a camera while in a kayak. Great shots!

betchai said...

i am so jealous, i have not seen sea otters that too many in the wild, would love love to go there too, but now, you made me happier for knowing this place, I can look on this and hoepfully bring my feet here someday. great pictures, Karen, the overcrowded sea lion pics picture is so funny.