Hey blog! As we get back to our regular posts, we return to FHL for an in-depth tour of their fish labs, observing the many fascinating species held within. From the slippery prickleback , to the almost birdlike ratfish, there was a plethora of marine life being held in the labs for various research.
We received a tour of the preserved specimens, as well as a walkthrough of how the dyed specimens are stained and preserved in jars.
Our group continued the tour with a demonstration of the lab’s CT (computerized tomography) machine, often used in the medical field. This particular CT was being used to create high quality 3D scans of fish later used to created life-like models. Next, we listened to a lecture from two resident scientists studying baleen whales and the mechanics of how they feed. After that, Dr. Sebens (Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Washington) whom we had over for dinner the previous night lead us down to the FHL docks to collect all sorts of marine organisms. To do so, we flipped over tires along the docks covered in all types of algae, sponges, crustacean, urchins, etc.
We put the organisms that we gathered in a bucket to be later taken to the labs for further inspection. As we were finishing up, a boat full of scientists came rushing back revealing a one of a kind discovery. A group of six of them carried a covered figure on a stretcher, later being told it was a giant blue fin tuna. What we didn’t realize is that we were about to witness history. Apparently, tunas are only found in warmer water which is why it was so strange to see a tuna so far up north.
Finally, it was time to head back the van to our next destination.
This destination was the Lime Kiln State Park also known as the “Whale Watch Park” due to it being known as one of the best places to whale watch in all of the San Juan Island. The park also has a rich history most commonly known for the beginning of lime kiln production. Caroline introduced us to Erin Corra who was a naturalist along with many past duties such as being the head director of Friends of Lime Kiln Society. As she took us through the park she quizzed us on many difference species of trees which Finlee answered all. Next, she took us to the watch point where there was many signs talking about the marine animals that passed through the Haro Strait. Many stops later we finally reached the main feature of the park, the lighthouse. Inside there were many displays of posters showcasing the vast history of the lighthouse and of marine life in the surrounding area. Unexpectedly, we were told that we could venture to the top of the building. We split in to groups for this due to the small staircase and size of the upstairs. From the top, we got a wider view of the area, being able to see much of Vancouver Island.
After all of the groups got back down we hiked over to the Lime Kiln where a small beach took our main focus. We explored the area by dipping our feet into the cold salty water along with climbing the nearby cliff.
Finally, we made our way back to the van to return back to the school.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable experience where everyone learned something new that was so close to our school. We got see the daily life of marine biologist and what they do to help the science community out. That’s all for now. Signing off from the Salish Sailors! (Written by Tommy, Ingrid, and Maddie)