#10 Pond

On Tuesday and Wednesday (24/25th of June), we held our first full day classes. Beginning with class in the mornings, we prepared for Bermuda, reviewing packing and classwork requirements. Afterwards, we practiced the Caribbean Reef ID fish quizzes (where we're starting to consistently get 100%), IDing fish from previous Bermuda class trips, understanding the fish won't stop swimming for a picture or identification, and won't always be textbook colored. On Wednesday morning, Lucy presented her coral independent study, and we watched a section of a previous student's presentation on college advice and

marine future options, highlighting scholarships and internships available.

After breaking for lunch, we headed out to #10 Pond. On Tuesday, it hit high 90s, and the snorkel was a nice refresher. On Wednesday, it was cloudy and chillier. The snorkel was to test gear for the trip, get comfortable in the water, and see local fish. There were adult and juvenile smallmouth bass, and a few bass nests. There were many sunfish, with one male seen displaying his colors on his circular nest. Schools or perch swam by, one catfish was seen, and a painted turtle! We could hear loons calling from further in the pond as well.

With gear figured out and fish knowledge under our belt, we're excited for Bermuda, but not the airport at four in the morning!