Day 6: Storm clouds at Marley Beach

Local birds take refuge on the beach as the storm clouds gather...

Chitons, a type of marine mollusc, tighten their grip on the rocks...

Yellow billed, white-tailed tropic bird, known locally as the Bermuda Longtail, native to Bermuda and a national symbol. Their acrobatic flight makes for difficult photography; they rarely land unless on remote rocks and cliffs, where they nest in holes and crevices.

Until about 1978, at least 3,000 nesting pairs were known to breed along the coastline. The numbers have declined steadily due to coastal development, increased disturbance from an expanding population, and predation by dogs, cats and other birds. Other factors include global warming, pollution and destruction of nest sites by hurricanes.

In order to counteract the decline "Longtail Igloos" were invented  as an emergency measure to provide alternative nesting sites. They are made from roofing material and provide good insulation and shelter from the sun. They are light but strong with a concrete covering that provides camouflage and holds the nest in place.

Longtails feed by plummeting into the sea like gannets, they are believed to sleep on the wing as well as on the open ocean.

Heavy rain, thunder and lightning put on a dramatic display, out to sea.

The sun slowly breaks through the clouds...

Five minutes later, the sun beats down, the flags blow gently in the breeze and the last few raindrops evaporate from the flowers.

Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed my photos.

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