Kleptoparasitism

This morning we were abruptly awakened by pouring rain coming through the hatches.  Since it was so warm we had left everything open.  Ugh!  More drying out required.  But since it was now chilly (low 60s) we had our morning coffee inside.  Still we were able to watch the dolphins swimming.  

Between the time change and our needing to clean up rain water, we started our journey later then usual.  After 17 miles straight into the wind, we anchored off Merritt Island for the night.

 I had to find out about this small white/black bird after watching them all day from the bow of our boat as we traveled north to Merritt Island.  


These laughing gulls (and yes they do sound like they are laughing), surround the pelicans after they dive and share in any tidbits that are left.  Hence the term kleptoparasitism!  Strange that the pelicans do not mind they hang on their backs waiting for scraps.

The pelicans are relentless in their feeding and spend their day diving.  Pretty amazing to watch.





My favorite spot while moving is the dolphin seat on the bow.  Here I can keep an eye out for shoals, bridge depths and of course - dolphins.




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