Churchill - Day Seven

Well its been a fun-filled day off. We were up and running for an early departure with Carley (research associate/tour guide) packing us up in the van and taking us to some of the towns highlights. We got out several times to walk  a couple of beaches, an old fort, Cape Merry, and around town. You could see the belugas from the road, feedng  off capelin  in the waters.We spent some time shopping- only 1 gift type shop - Parks Canada Museum -located in the train station- and some local rustic log cabin type hotels. We spent a bit of time in the Eskimo museum which exhibited  a great deal of native craftsmanship. After that we took a zodiac boat ride to the river off the bay to see beluga whales. We were astonished to see so many whales so close up. We cut the engines and moms and calves would come directly up to the boat and just glide alongside or underneath. The crew put in microphones so we could hear their songs. We spent about 2 hours out on the water and even saw a seal. It was really incredible - pictures to follow tomorrow. We had a terrific dinner at Gypsy's - a Portuguese owned restaurant. I even had escargot.



"Polar Bear Playground"




Serene pond by the fort



Have to send to
The Acorn

Beluga surfacing near boat

Pete took us out after dinner where we continued our local tour. He and Carley really know the area extremely well. We hit beaches, rivers, marina-like docks, memorials and just wide open areas.  Was able to find some bay beach glass to take home. Had a stone skippng competition from the river bank. We saw arctic swans, ospreys, 2 bald eagles, arctic terns,  and lots of ducks and geese. We were thrilled to see a single polar bear  moving inland. We were trippng over ourselves to get out and watch. Along in our travels we stopped and saw another bear, this one with 2 cubs and not so far away. This was amazing because we really did not expect to see any. We headed back towards the center and stopped at the bear jail where they put persisent bears for 30 days before they relocate them. Then off to the beach for sunset. What do we see - another polar bear on the rocks. This one was too close for comfort and we  could not stay long. The long day ended with a magnificent sunset and a short ride back to the center.

Bear Jail

Contemporary Bear Trap

sunset

sunset