Xiaoliuqiu Casual Dive Log — Everyday Encounters with Sea Turtles
2018 0301-07 Xiaoliuqiu Ocean Casual Dive Log
The south wind has truly made its presence felt — the soaking-wet motorcycle seat in the early morning is the best proof of it. On the northern side of Xiaoliuqiu, what appears to be the influence of the Kuroshio Current keeps water temperatures high, reaching 27°C, with visibility generally excellent at 20 m or more.
A school of sardines was spotted in the Shanfu Harbor area for three consecutive days. I hope they manage to thrive here — or at least bravely draw some bigger creatures out to greet them.
On a happier note, I witnessed a sea turtle defecating in the wild for the very first time — and managed to film it. For some reason, sea turtle poop is inexplicably adorable; it floated there with perfect positive buoyancy, a moment I'll never forget. On a sadder note, near the bow of the wreck I discovered the skeletal remains of a small sea turtle. Its humerus was entangled with a fishing line and a small float — whether this was directly related to its death, I cannot say. I can only hope that all these creatures get to live out their lives freely and naturally.
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Water Temp / 25 - 27 °C Visibility / 10 - 30 m Shanfu Harbor, sardines, the daily life of sea turtles (eating, drinking, and beyond), sea turtle mortality
Olympus TG4 Gopro HERO 5 DJI SPARK
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Music / MBB - Happy https://soundcloud.com/mbbofficial
Watch on Youtube / https://youtu.be/mjW5hgXqZ_g
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