Just as our association at Norbert's Hill dwindled out, Gil and Sharon did the tour training at a local botanical garden called Na Aina Kai, which literally means the lands at the sea. (see link to their website below)
In addition to all of the botanical and artistic features of the garden, both of its seaside boundaries are cliff tops that are serve as both nesting area and take off points for the seasonal albatross. The staff keeps the foliage trimmed so the birds can access the flats and has fenced it to prevent the tragedy of unleashed dogs from finding the birds.
This is Camo Moli and her 2008 chick
Camo likes to nest at the edge of the cliff or over the edge. The juveniles walk around when old enough, they easily feel the wind under their wings out on the point.
Camo's chick is a male, K498. Here his off the nest & checking it all out.
When it was time to fledge, he only needed a stiff breeze.
2009
Gil continues to give tours that educate the visitors year-round on the incredible birds as his personal interest in them keeps growing. During November-January these lucky visitors are likely to see the adults on nests or juveniles courting. During January - July they are likely to see the chicks in their various stages.
This chick "Hilltop" has pipped the egg. It may take 3 days to fully hatch.
Hilltop a couple weeks later - under close supervision.
Hilltop's parents are very careful - 8 weeks old
1-2 weeks before fledging; Hilltop's parents had a successful season.
