Aruba

February 25
Orenjastad, Aruba

      We cruised into Oranjestad early in the morning of February 25th. We’re excited about today’s shore excursion because we will be driving a rented jeep into the Aruba “outback”. Being off the beaten path, we hope to pick up some new species for the list and for the camera. As we pull into port, we find a good number of magnificent frigatebirds flying overhead….a good omen for the day to come. Shortly after docking, we are on our way to the jeeps and a day of “off-roading”. Our first stop is a large volcanic outcrop which provides us with a fine view of the surrounding countryside. As we mount the formation, we are greeted by a medium sized green iguana peering out from a crevice in the rocks. A couple of Caribbean parakeets fly in and perch nearby, but the lighting is not great and the birds decide not to stick around for me to get a better vantage point. Shortly thereafter, however, we are told of a pair of Burrowing owls which are hanging out in a nearby tree as if waiting for us to come and take their picture. They are indeed fine specimens and wait patiently as I move about to get the best light. We are on a schedule, however, and it’s time to move on.

     Our next stop is at the once famous Natural Bridge which 4 years ago fell to the forces of erosion. There are many birds around, but wouldn’t you know it….they are mostly House sparrows! Can’t seem to get away from these LBJ’s (birder for “Little Brown Jobs”) no matter where in the world we travel. Back into the jeeps and onto some bumpy riding. The landscape is stark and barren until we reach the oasis which is the Alto Vista Chapel. Locals venture by foot for miles to reach this little church, and there are a number of folks inside the tiny structure at prayer when we arrive. Outside, I find a divine vision of my own….the wonderful oriole of Aruba, the Troupial. I could watch this beauty all day, but again, we have to stick to our timetable and it’s off again. Next stop along the rugged jeep trail is the California Lighthouse, named for a ship which sank and whose demise precipitated the building of this light. At the lighthouse, I find a small dove which proves to be a life bird for us, the Eared dove. Unfortunately, it’s time to head back to the ship and prepare for sail. It’s been a great first exposure to this beautiful Caribbean Isle and we look forward to revisiting it in the future when we hope to have more time to devote to the local avifauna.