Does the salt burn?

Hey Ms. Barrett! How's the Galapagos so far? Well, I have a question about the marine iguanas. I was wondering about the salt that dries on their backs. Wouldn't that burn their backs in the heat? Salt usually does that at the beach to my skin. Maybe it helps the iguana. And do the iguanas move from parts of the island when conditions change on other parts? Do the marine iguanas interact with the tortoises or the blue-footed boobies? Maybe they stay away from each other for certain reasons! Maybe I can answer some of these but it would be nice for you to answer some too! Thanks! Have a nice trip. Can't wait to see you.

Amanda Pd. 2

Thanks for your email, Amanda. I leave for my voyage Sunday morning. First, I have to go to California for some meetings. Then on Tuesday, all of the teachers will fly to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. We will stay in Quito one night. Then on Wednesday, we fly to the Galapagos. I can't wait! I plan to post entries along the way.

Marine iguanas, like all reptiles, are covered with scales. The scales must protect their bodies from the burning sensation you feel after swimming in the ocean. Our outer covering (our skin) is more sensitive to that. I was reading about the iguanas last night, and I read their heads are always encrusted with salt because they "sneeze" it out! This is a great way to get rid of the salt in their bodies.

I'll keep an eye out for the interactions among the species while on the islands. Thanks again, Amanda, and thanks for helping process the monarchs while I am away!