seawatcher
Well-known member
Just what is "chum"?? And anyone have a recipe - I take it it is not a popular brand of tinned dog food. Ands does it really work??
Edward said:We're still preparing for the inaugural Icelandic pelagic on Saturday and were wondering whether there isn't a risk of the birds getting "oiled-up" and so affecting their ability to fly, if a wake of several gallons of cod liver oil and the such like is spewed out the back of the boat?
E
Katy Penland said:Several GALLONS of cod liver oil? We've never used more than a pint per trip, and that will give off enough "scent" for two or three slicks. I mentioned one or two pints because it varies with the length of the trip (days vs. hours, e.g.).
As for the chum itself, there's very little oil in it; in my experience, it's more blood than anything else, if that isn't getting too graphic.
The only time I've seen a bird unable to take off right away was a black-footed albatross who was content to float around the boat until enough wind came up so it could get airborne again. That was a tough birding day 100 miles offshore, getting long, close looks at such a beautiful bird!
How exciting to be conducting your first pelagic! When I finally get to visit Iceland, it's great to know this kind of birding will be available. You should also get some pretty nifty marine mammals as well. Best wishes for your inaugural trip! You'll post a trip report, I hope?
martin kitching said:Hi Edward
Only other requirement is someone who doesn't mind immersing their hand/arm/elbow in the bucket. Good birding on Saturday.
martin
Not for the next two years anyway (Korea and then one of the Caribbeans). Wonder if I took the Great Circle Route the OPPOSITE direction to Korea, I could do an extended layover in Iceland? I wouldn't imagine July is a very good month though for birding, or is it?Edward said:Let me know when you come here. Is Iceland due to host the IWC conference any time soon?
E