Inian Islands and Fox Creek
At the northwestern end of the Inside Passage lie the Inian Islands. Small narrow channels separate the protected waterway from the open Pacific Ocean, and with every tidal change massive amounts of water pour through the narrow gaps. This flux of water brings an incredible richness of marine critters and is a mecca for wildlife. Today we explored this area by Zodiac and by hiking the lush surrounding forest.
Zodiacs are the perfect craft to enjoy this area. Ripping currents create standing waves and whirlpools, and we were able to zip around and experience up close this tidal power. Kelp beds lined the shoreline, and sea otters were busy feeding amongst the bull kelp fronds. Sea lions took advantage of the current conveyor belt to feast on the incoming salmon. Puffins nest on the nearby cliffs, and many other seabirds including gulls, guillemots, and murrelets share in the abundance. A few humpback whales also joined in to demonstrate the incredible productivity of this region, and add a bit to our excitement.
In the afternoon, we explored the forest around Fox Creek on Chichagof Island. Many of us made our way up to a muskeg, and got an introduction to this interesting ecosystem. A few blueberries were eaten, flowers were enjoyed, and birds were heard. For me, the highlights of this area were the signs of many generations of brown bears. This is an area with some very interesting examples of bear communication that we do not really understand, but are nonetheless amazing to see. One is a scratching, or rubbing tree. A large chunk of a Sitka Spruce has been pulled away, and bear fur is stuck in the sap that has oozed out. Many different bears have been identified as to have rubbed on this one tree. Why that particular tree, we will probably never know. Even more amazing to me though, was a perennial bear trail. In one lush patch, a series of bear imprints make a perfect path through the forest. For how many years or how many individuals have walked in the exact same footprints we will never know. Nor will we probably ever know the meaning as to why they do it. Sometimes not knowing all the answers is what keeps many of us exploring.
