Although the pace has been sometimes hectic, ensuring that we saw much of the wildlife here and having family arrive and leave, in the quieter moments one turns over in ones mind what we have been privileged to experience.
The sanctuaries and breeding stations for the giant tortoises are doing a lot to re-populate the islands of this species, which was decimated in the 19th century when some 100,000 of these gentle creatures were slaughtered to provision the sailing ships of the day. The land iguana population is growing while the seas teem with fish of all sorts. And many of the species of bids, fish and land mammals have absolutely no concern about being close to humans.
So, on the one hand, the islands bear witness to the thoughtless depredations of mankind. On the other, there is a vivid demonstration of how the environment can be repaired, and most importantly, that if we treat the wildlife with due consideration and respect, it will return the favor by constantly amazing us with its differing natural behaviors.
There is a unique sense that comes over one in these islands, caused I think, by the sensible integration of humans and wildlife. Fear is absent and tranquility abounds. This feeling of being a part of a multi-species world is a memory that will stay with me. And as I said, it has been a privilege to have had the opportunity to see and experience it.
We leave tomorrow for the Marquesas. The 3,000 mile passage will take around 20 days. Blog entries will likely be few and far between, but we will certainly be back on line when we reach our destination of Hiva Oa.