This was the view at 5:50 this morning. It was a very pleasant and warm day until about 3:30 when it started to rain. We spent most of the day in the Gulf Stream and saw lots of sperm whales and dolphins.We also saw several balloons, including at least five groups of balloons. The Bigelow altered its course to inspect a large group of orange and white balloons that were floating on the ocean surface. Because the balloons were similar in color to life rafts, the Bigelow was obligated to check them out. Balloons are a real menace to marine animals. Turtles mistake balloons for jellyfish and when they ingest them they may die. The strings on balloons frequently entangle birds, fish, and mammals. Balloons take a very long to degrade and releasing helium balloons is illegal in many areas.
Just blogged about you! http://marinelife.about.com/b/2009/08/09/teacher-at-sea.htm.
ReplyDeleteHave fun out there! Whales are crazy in here right now.
Hey, Cathy....
ReplyDeleteEnjoying your blog and envious of "Mrs. Silver's Big Adventure." Enjoy! Sure beats kayaking, right?
Holly Smart
those balloons are a real killer to those sea turtles especially around Endicott College, right mom
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