I didn’t even have to go to the Arctic to find these guys. They nest here at Protection Island. It’s the largest colony in the US. But these guys (there were 5 left that we could see) should have left in July or August for sure.
But thanks for hanging around guys–you’re fun to photograph!
Who knew? I didn’t, because I didn’t ever get that close to Protection Island!
Protection Island is a RESTRICTED National Wildlife refuge. The refuge is closed to visitation to protect its fragile wildlife habitat. Visitors may view the island by boat; a 200-yard off-shore buffer is enforced to ensure nesting and feeding birds aren’t disturbed. The Island hosts 70% of the nesting seabird population of Puget Sound & the Straits, and is one of the largest nesting colonies of rhinoceros auklets in the world. It hosts the largest nesting colony of glaucous-winged gulls in Washington, and is one of the last 2 nesting colonies of tufted puffins in the Puget Sound area. 1000 Harbor Seals depend on the island for pupping and rest area. Elephant seals, sea lions, orcas, and other cetaceans also use the area.
Gary, THANKS so much for the detailed info on the island… It is a real treasure. And I’m so glad I have 1000mm ff equivalent lens to shot with now!
They are so adorable!
Quite a pair.