Conditions this past week were a little rough. Winds picked up throughout the week, and that’s always what brings the “sporty” conditions the further out we go. Things did lay down nicely for the weekend.
We did manage to sneak in a night dive when the winds died down a bit. Night dives are incredible! Have you ever been? The reef looks entirely different because it IS different — there are literally different creatures that come out at night to eat, mate and do what they do than in the daytime.
Eels and turtles were the theme of this dive. Eels are nighttime feeders, so you see them come out from under their daytime ledges. The turtles are looking for a protected area to rest for the night. Seeing many of both of these made for a very fun, very active night dive.
Next Week’s Dive Report
This week looks much nicer, with high winds not showing up until Friday. Don’t worry, our Sunday “Halloween Costume” dives should be very nice! Want to join the spooky fun? Call us to get added to the roster.
Conservation Update
I.CARE continues to plant endangered corals back on our reef. Their efforts are critical and require support from our community and beyond.
You can help this Saturday by joining I.CARE’s costume contest and fundraiser at Florida Keys Brewing Co. It’s going to be a fun “ocean creature” inspired event that will directly support local coral restoration. There will be music, prizes, great beer and more.
Conservation Tip
Have you ever seen a sleeping parrotfish in a mucus-cocoon? Don’t disturb it and don’t shine your light on it! That cocoon protects it from “vampire-like” blood-sucking parasites. Interrupting the process puts them in danger.
I.CARE Tip
When night diving, be extra careful about your buoyancy and watch where you shine your lights. Many animals and our newly-planted corals are very sensitive and we want to protect them even as we enjoy seeing them.
