From the National Geographic Sea Lion in Panama, 2/1/2011, National Geographic Sea Lion

Today we had the opportunity to explore one of the most interesting places on the Tropical Eastern Pacific, Coiba Island. In the last decade, its history as a penal colony has quickly been replaced by a rich history of ichthyologic exploration. The shore fish fauna of these islands has a special flavor because of the unique mix of communities of fish that are present.

 

Our first stop in the morning was at the Islet of Granito de Oro. Due to its location, the exceptional coral reefs start growing immediately after only a few feet of white sand beach, allowing us to just stroll onto the coral. Among our first fish-sightings were countless Reef Cornetfish, Blue and Gold Snappers, Panamanian Sergeant Majors, Cortez Rainbow Wrasses, Chancho Surgeonfishes, Bicolor Parrotfishes, Moorish Idol, Guineafowl Puffers and Barberfish. Among the biggest fish around the reef this morning we saw the White Tip Reef Shark. Even though sharks in general enjoy a menacing reputation, this species showed us that they can be remarkable and exceptional predators, yet at the same time docile and tranquil.

 

After we finished enjoying the highly unique nature of Granito de Oro, some of us decided to kayak a few miles over to our next location, Coiba Island. On the way, we were able to kayak among Pacific Green Sea turtles that were making their way across the tropical corridor. As soon as we arrive, a BBQ lunch prepared by our wonderful hotel staff awaited. Lunch was shared not only with an interesting group of Black Vultures but also with a good friend of the park rangers, Titin. Titin, an 8-foot American Crocodile over the years has become a common visitor of the park. Originally some inmates of the penal colony enjoyed having these animals as pets. Nowadays they just comfortably swim among the river systems and the shore of the island looking for fish. In the end, we all relaxed and enjoyed the beach. Some of us walked around the trails close to the station, where numerous tanagers and flycatchers where feeding from some fruiting trees.

 

Coiba has started to obtain an interesting scientific collection of fish and research studies that continue to be built by devoted naturalists. Before, this area was inaccessible because of its status as a penal colony, now it presents us with great opportunities for exploration, which overall contributes to our knowledge of the region.