08 Aug 2021

Walrus, Whales and Thousands of Seabirds

This morning started with a Zodiac cruise of Blossom Cape. Seven years ago this was a popular Walrus haul out, but as with previous years the pinnipeds had yet to return. Enjoying the thrill of Zodiac cruising through the ice, we landed at a former weather station now used as a hut for Wrangle Island rangers and researchers.

Back on board Spirit of Enderby we sailed around to Cape Thomas making a landing at Neozhidannaya River. On the slope of the hillside we count 8 polar bears and 1 Musk Oxen. Time to put the feet up back on board and enjoy a hot tea as we sailed towards Ptichiy Bazar where a pair of Grey Whales welcomed us on arrival.

Taking advantage of the eerie calm, it was straight into the Zodiacs after dinner to observe several groups of Walrus on the ice. We then cruised around the bird cliffs where thousands of Guillemots, Glaucous Gulls, Tufted and Horned Puffins, and Cormorants, among others, filled the evening sky ending another fantastic expedition day.

Image © J.Mishina, Heritage Expeditions