North Island / Day 5-6

Hello dear ones, unfortunately the early walk on Friday didn't work out. After finishing the blog, a colleague from the island called us and informed us that there is a green turtle on the beach. So we immediately went to see it. When we arrived, it was in the process of digging a hole for its eggs. Since it was already dark and we were only allowed to use maximum red light, I couldn't take any photos. Unfortunately, the turtle did not lay any eggs, probably because there were roots in the way when she was digging the hole. We only saw her go back into the water after she gave up digging.

Yesterday morning, we climbed the second of the three mountains. We were looking for giant turtles to measure and locate them. From the top, we had a beautiful view of the island again. Unfortunately, it was cloudy and very windy all day yesterday.

In the afternoon, we did another relocation of giant turtle eggs. Unfortunately, there were only four eggs here and it was quite difficult to find the nest in the hard ground. But in the end, we succeeded.

Today, on the other hand, was another exciting day. It started when we received the information early in the morning, shortly after sunrise, that a green turtle had been spotted on the beach. So we went there immediately. She had even laid eggs and was in the process of going back into the water. This time, I was able to take photos too :) It was really a great experience to see these large, powerful creatures take on the hardships of a beach visit just to lay their eggs.

During our morning round, we noticed that due to the wind and the tide, the sand had been removed at a spot on the beach where there is a nest nearby. So in order to prevent the sea from washing away the eggs, we decided to relocate this nest. Sea turtles can lay up to 200 eggs in one nest, so I already knew that this time it wouldn't be enough with 4 eggs. Also, the nests here are much deeper, so we had to dig a lot before we found the nest. In total, we uncovered 136 eggs and reburied them in a better place. Here too, you have to mark the eggs on top in order to place them back in the correct position in the new nest.

In the evening, we watched the sunset again. Unfortunately, it was only a short stay because suddenly a mega wave came and we all got wet. Fortunately, I was able to save my backpack and half of my drink. But my pants got completely wet. So we went back to our house earlier to shower.

So, freshly showered, I wrote this blog entry for you and will go to sleep afterwards. I wish you all a good night and see you soon.

Your Alex