10,000 Birds

SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Artists rendition of Inkayacu paracasensis There are 17 living species of penguins, which make up their own Linnean family (Spheniscidae), which is the only family in the order Sphenisciformes. Fossil Evidence for Evolution of the Shape and Color of Penguin Feathers Science, 330 (6006), 954-957 DOI: 10.1126/science.1193604

Penguins 231

Penguins Seals Peru Science 231

10,000 Birds

AUGUST 29, 2011

Having flown to Washington State on a family vacation the first obstacle was easily out of the way, which you knew already if you ever read this blog. There was no pretending this was a whale-watching trip, a ruse that is growing stale anyway. when the puffin flew past, a bird that the whole family can appreciate.

Washington 197

Washington Protection Puffins Rhinoceros 197

10,000 Birds

JUNE 22, 2011

Large areas of the islands are taken over as the breeding grounds of the Western Gull , a large bird that is without question the most ornery member of the family I have ever encountered. A great place to watch whales and pelagic seabirds. And it isn’t just on the ground or an occasional accidental hazard. Note about images.

Breeding 218

Breeding Stray Seals Whales 218