Cedar Creek Boat Rental | A Look At The Different Types Of Boats You Can Rent At Cedar Creek

BY  Sibashree Aug 9, 2024

Wrangell-St. Elias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an icy wonderland. It is a place where active volcanoes and the largest glaciers, like Malaspina, coexist, making it “A Song of Ice and Fire.”  It also has some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world and mighty rivers. Further, unique geological features and weather conditions have made the national park a land of biodiversity and wilderness with a lot of mammals, birds, fish, and plants.  Let me take you on a tour of the Wrangell-St. Elias glaciers and everything the national park has to offer.   What Are The Notable Glaciers In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier are the most notable ones in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.   Along with these glaciers, you can also see glacier features like glacier caves, Jökulhlaups, and ice falls. Let’s briefly discuss the major glaciers and glacier features.   Malaspina Glacier Did you know that Malaspina Glacier is the “largest Piedmont glacier in the world?” Designated as a National Natural Landscape in 1968, it spans across 1,075,409 acres.   Further, its glacial mechanisms and fluctuations have made it a favorite of explorers. The glacier is also a favorite of space travelers as it looks vibrant from space.   In an article published by NASA Earth Observatory on 27th October 2023, we can find,  “The dark blueish-purple lines on the ice are moraines—areas where soil, rock, and other debris have been scraped up by the glacier and deposited along its edges. The zigzag pattern of the debris is caused by changes in the ice’s velocity. Glaciers in this area of Alaska periodically “surge” or lurch forward for one to several years. As a result of this irregular flow, the moraines can fold, compress, and shear to form the characteristic textures seen on Malaspina.”  Hubbard Glacier  Hubbard, “the sleeping giant,” is the largest when it comes to the tidewater glaciers in North America (75 miles long). The glacier gets its name from Gardiner Hubbard, National Geographic Society’s first president.   Also called the “Galloping Glacier,” it comes with tranquil blue ice. You can explore Hubbard Glacier through a cruise trip.   Visiting the Hubbard Glacier becomes more exciting as you meet the sea otters, whales, sea lions, and bears along the route.   Nabesna Glacier  With a length of 53 miles, Nabesna Glacier is the “longest interior valley glacier” in the world. However, there are concerns regarding the loss of ice mass in the glacier. A 2007 report says,  “Nabesna, the largest glacier in this region (˜1056 km2), lost mass four times faster during 2000–07 than during 1957–2000. Although accelerated, the mass change over this region is slower than in other glacierized regions of Alaska, particularly those with tidewater glaciers.”  Glacier Features In Wrangell-St. Elias  You will come across many fascinating glacier caves in Wrangell-St. Elias, especially near the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark.   Further, ice falls, or the fountains of the glacier, move very fast, and it’s fascinating to see how they form seracs or blocks.   Also, there are Jökulhlaups, or flooded glacier outbursts, adding to the various glacier features of the national park.    Amazing Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Facts  Mount  St. Elias, the largest peak of the national park, is the second-highest in the world.  Mount Wrangell, the only active volcano here, is one of the largest active volcanoes in North America.  It has Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier, three of the largest in the world.   It is a part of the “world's largest international protected wilderness.”  Mid-May to mid-September is the best time to visit this park.   Wrangell-St. Elias: A UNESCO World Heritage Site  Home to countless glaciers and many high mountains, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park enjoys the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Kluane, Glacier Bay, and Tatshenshini-Alsek.   Also, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a part of the “largest non-polar icefield in the world.” You will find Dall's sheep, grizzly bears, caribou, and many other animals roaming in this part of the world.   Further, certain geographical and biological factors and “protection and management requirements” make this national park a place of outstanding universal value. Let’s discuss them in detail.   Rich In Biodiversity  The scenic beauty and geological diversity in the park are outstanding. It has sea mammals and other aquatic animals. Further, you can see many land mammals, birds, and different types of trees in this park.   The table below mentions some of the most popular birds, trees, and animals you can see here.   Land Mammals Brown Bears Polar Bears Black Bears Mountain Goats Dall Sheep Bison Coyotes Wolverine Porcupine Sea Mammals and Other Marine Creatures Whales Sea Lions Porpoises Harbor Seals Sea Otters Plants (936 Vascular Plant Species) Sedge Family Grass Family Sunflower Family Trees Willows Various Introduced Species Birds Bald Eagles Canada Geese Trumpeter Swans Wilson's Warblers American Robins  Home to boreal forest, Wrangell-St. Elias has one of the largest ecosystems in the world. Diverse geological features and unique weather conditions support this sprawling ecosystem or biodiversity.   Comes With Topographical Diversity   This national park is one of the most diverse in its topographical features. It has glaciers, rivers, river canyons, volcanoes, snow-capped mountains and whatnot!   Geomorphological features like hanging valleys, moraines, craters, and calderas also make this national park unique.   A Hub Of Active Tectonic, Volcanic, Glacial, And Fluvial Natural Processes   Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is also in an area where tectonic, volcanic, glacial, and fluvial natural processes are common.   So, it has active and inactive volcanoes, the largest glaciers, and some prominent fluvial landforms. It has the mighty Copper River, Rivers of Life, and braided rivers formed of glacier water.   Final Words   Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has the highest glacier coverage among all national parks in America. It also has the active Mount Wrangell volcano, rivers, and wetlands, making it a place of geological interest.   Exploring the glacier caves and the ice falls here is a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s wonderful to see how the richest biodiversity with mammals, birds, aquatic animals, and trees thrives here.   So, come and experience the brilliance of nature as you explore the largest glaciers of the world’s largest glaciers, such as Malaspina and Hubbard.   Or have you already been to this land of volcanoes and glaciers? Don’t forget to share your experience of the glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park tours.    Wrangell-St. Elias National Park FAQs   How Many Glaciers Are In Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is filled with glaciers. According to the latest count of the National Park Service (NPS), the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has 3,121 glaciers. Further, these glaciers cover a whopping “6,757 square miles of land.”  So, Wrangell-St. Elias has glaciers that cover 60% of all the glacier coverage in American National Parks. Glacier Bay in Alaska is the distant second to Wrangell-St. Elias. The glacier coverage at Glacier Bay is just 1/5th of Wrangell-St. Elias.  In addition, Malaspina, Hubbard, and the Bering glaciers, located along the park’s southern margin, are three of the largest glaciers in the world.   Having said that, glacier coverage in Alaska is shrinking, and  Wrangell-St. Elias is not an exception. From 1985 to 2020, it has already experienced a 5% reduction in its glacier coverage.   How many People Visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Each Year?  The National Park Service has a record of visitors to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park since 1982. Since then, this park has been enjoying thousands of footfalls every year.  2023 was one of the topmost years in terms of number of people visiting  Wrangell-St. Elias. It had 78,305 visitors in 2023.  In 2020 (the Covid-19 era), the park had 16,655 visitors. From 2021, the number of visitors has increased consistently. (Source)  What Is Unique About Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  With the largest glaciers and volcanoes in the world, Wrangell-St. Elias is unique because of its geographical features. It is also one of the most prominent hubs of biodiversity. Thanks to its extensive glacier and volcanic coverage and rich wildlife, it has earned the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Among glaciers, Hubbard (one of the largest in the world and the largest tidewater glacier in North America) and Malaspina Glacier demand a special mention.   The Mount Wrangell volcano in this park is still active, and some other volcanoes here are Mount Drum, Capital Mountain, Skookum Creek Volcano, etc.  Further, it has an endangered sea mammal, Steller Sea Lion, and other marine animals. Bears, mountain goats, and sheep are common land mammals roaming here.   Also, you will find birds like the American robins, Wilson's warblers, and dark-eyed junco in this national park.   What Is The Highest Peak In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Mount St. Elias is the highest peak in Wrangell-St. Elias. With a height of 18,008 feet, it is also the second-highest peak in North America.   Having said that, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park celebrates the presence of four major mountain ranges in the world. It has the eastern part of the Alaskan Range, St. Elias, Chugach, and Wrangell.   Why Is Wrangell-St. Elias Protected?  Wrangell-St. Elias is protected to “preserve and protect ecological integrity and heritage resources of a vast ecosystem in south-central Alaska, while providing for public use in a wilderness setting.”  So, it is protected to preserve the local geology and diversity of the landscape with glaciers, volcanoes, and wetlands. It is also a measure to preserve wildlife and its inhabitants. Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Paris Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues. Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park.

BY  Mashum Apr 13, 2022

  Are you in a condition to switch companies very soon?? Have you got your dream job and there is still a few weeks left for your joining?? Are you the one who is just not willing to work anymore and planning for an escape?? Well, then this article is for you people! In the present competitive world, many people do not even get a chance to discover a traveler in themselves. Most of them die at the age of 25 and exist till the age of 65 to 70.  You know, we all have a traveler in ourselves!! Really! I am not kidding. You have a soul that always wishes to explore the world. It is just things like environment, responsibilities, and discipline that keep you back in the trap. You fail most of the time planning for your dream trip for life. Well, no more negative vibes guys!! It is time to break some conventional rules of life and invest in something for the betterment of your soul. You can take a step that most travelers would hesitate to. Okay! nothing so risky but you can plan for a mid-year trip. Say cheers to breaking rules, pure ecstasy, life, and plan for your dream trip in June. Here, I have come up with ten magnificent destinations that you can consider the best places to travel to in June. Top Ten Places To Travel In June 2022 You Can Plan For Here is the list of the ten most alluring destinations in the world that you can visit in June. So, choose one from the list and give your friends a chance to envy you. 1. Luangwa Valley, Zambia   Overview: Zambia is a small country in central Africa but has many things to gift to tourists. Here you can check out the rugged landscape and some outstanding locations for a mid-year vacation in June. The weather in the Luangwa Valley remains dry and you can explore the grassland and easily spot the wild animals. Moreover, you can enjoy the heavenly sight of Victoria Falls. While not many travelers always head to the Luangwa Valley (National Park), you can visit this place solo or on a friends’ trip. So, you would always have the fondle memories of visiting an off-beat destination. Reaching Up: By Air: Nonstop flights from New York to Lusaka are available regularly. You can reach the Luawanga Valley by car from the airport. Important Activities: Go for the jungle safari in the National Park. Visit the Victoria Falls both day and night. Observe and enjoy the local lifestyle. Dishes to Try: Nshima., Ifinkubala, Dry Fish Read More: How To Choose A Travel Pillow For Kids 2. Paris, France   Overview: France experiences an enjoyable summer in June. So, Paris, one of the best romantic destinations has backed a place in this list of best places to travel in June 2021. Even, you can consider the same situation in the current year.  You can best enjoy Paris with your partner. Generally, travelers do not pick up this place to go solo. Apart from the Iconic Eiffel Tower, you can explore a lot of museums and majestic buildings with European Architecture. Moreover, there is an exciting nightlife in Paris that gives you a chance to drink, sing, dance, and have fun with your partner. Reaching Up: By Air: There are direct flights from the US conducted by many Airlines to the Charles de Gaulle and the Orly Airport. Important Activities: Indulge in city sightseeing. Spend some time adjacent to the Eiffel Tower and click photographs with your partner. Try to explore the glittering nightlife of Paris. Dishes to Try: Macarons, Steak Tartare, Croissants. 3. Prague, Czech Republic   Overview: Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic. It is one of the picturesque cities in the country and the hub of classic European culture. You can come across many artists sitting and performing their artforms in the city joints. Apart from the Charles Bridge and Lennon Wall, you can explore more in Prague while a solo, couple, or group visit. Moreover, you can consider this as the best place to travel to in June as there are a lot of festivals taking place in the city. A four to five days trip to Prague in June can remain in your memory for a lifetime. Reaching Up: By Air: Both direct flights and connecting flights are available from the US. In the case of the one-stop flights, you can stopover in London. Important Activities: Explore the major tourist locations of Prague. Enjoy the local music and dance of Czech culture in any of the city joints. Be a part of the microbrewery bonanza and the biggest ice-cream festival. Dishes to Try: Koleno, Czech roast duck, Utopenci. 4. East Coast, Sri Lanka   Overview: The South Asian countries receive decent rainfall due to the active monsoon winds from June to September. Now, the East Coast region is different. It receives a little rainfall and you can find a lot of sunshine here.  As you visit the East Coast region in Sri Lanka, do not skip the Kumana National Park. Here, you can expect to have fun spotting crocodiles, elephants, and leopards. So, you can always consider the Pearl of The Indian Ocean to welcome you graciously as you choose it to be the best place to travel in June 2022. Reaching Up: By Air: A lot of indirect flights are available to the Colombo International Airport from the US. Afterward, you can take a car and reach Arugam Bay and The Kumana. Important Activities: Indulge in surfing at the Arugam Bay. Spend a lot of leisure time at the beach. Explore the Kumana National Park to spot wild animals. Dishes to Try: Fish Ambul Thiyal, Kukul Mas Currey, Kottu, Parippu. 5. Copenhagen, Denmark   Overview: If you are sitting back at your place in the US and thinking of a place to escape, choose Copenhagen. The weather in Copenhagen in June remains the best and you can enjoy a solo or a friend’s trip to the edge. This city in Denmark has got the fame to be the most stylish on the entire continent. As a result, you can consider it one of the best places to travel in June. If you are a music lover apart from a traveler, you would remember Copenhagen forever as a fondling city. As it is midsummer in Copenhagen during June, a lot of bands perform at the festivals. So, you can have to listen to them. Moreover, if you have proper knowledge about music, you can even interact with the musicians. Reaching Up: By Air: Direct flights to Copenhagen are available from Newark, Boston, Chicago O’Hare, Philadelphia, etc. Important Activities: Check out the Royal Castles of the city. Visit a few Danish Museums to feel the whispers of the past. Spend some time at the Den Bia Planet. Check out the Roskilde Cathedral. Dishes to Try: Pizza, Danish hotdogs, Sushi. 6. Tel Aviv, Israel   Overview: If you are a daredevil traveler desiring to go to an off-beat place in June, Tel Aviv can be the best destination for you. You can be in the city in June to witness the massive pride march. At times, the pride march reaches a strength of 250,000. This year, you can expect that the march would again take place as it occurred in the pre-Covid era. So, if you have a positive outlook on the pride of the LGBTQ+ community, it is the right place where you should be. You would be amazed to check out that the pride takes the formation of a festival. You can enjoy the music of the DJ and even taste snacks and food while the pride march takes place.  Reaching Up: By Air: You can get a direct flight to Tel Aviv from the NYC International Airport. Otherwise, you can break the journey from London with a Virgin Atlantic flight. Important Activities: Explore the city of Tel Aviv on foot. Be a part of the Pride March. Enjoy the music and have a good time. Taste the local cuisine. Dishes to Try: Falafel, Shakshouka, Schnitzel. You May Also Like To Read This: Top 10 Best Travel Sites For Tour In 2022 7. Manchester, England   Overview: England is a country that attracts tourists and travelers from all over the world in the peak seasons. You can choose June to visit Manchester as the weather does not remain quite cloudy this time. When in Manchester, you can explore the city and spend a few minutes in each location to admire them. Lately, Manchester has turned into the Hipster heaven and you can observe how the lifestyle and culture have changed among the young Brits. Another thing you need to remember is June 19th is Manchester Day and you can witness a grand parade and celebration. Reaching Up: By Air: Virgin Atlantics is the best airline that operates flights to London from different airports in the USA.  Important Activities: In Manchester, you can visit a lot of locations that attract tourists. Never forget to watch a football match at any of the stadiums in Manchester. Witness the People’s History Museum. Dishes to Try: Black pudding, Pastry Bram, Vimto. 8. Berlin, Germany   Overview: Berlin is a city with living history. So, if you are a travel freak who knows it, why not reach out to the place and witness it? Well, you can get a lot of things to do in Berlin. It homes some of the most outstanding museums in the world. You can be a part of a good, peaceful city. In Berlin, you can check out the theaters and even witness a show occurring in any one of them.  Another thing that you should not miss doing is listening to the whispers of World War II. There is a bunker where you can witness and spend some time looking back at the tough days of the country. Reaching Up: By Air: Berlin is now easy to reach as the new airport has opened up in the city for two years now. You can find direct flights of Lufthansa here. You can also land in Newark and reach Berlin. Important Activities: Explore the entire city on foot or some public vehicle. Check out the grandeu of Bode and Neuse Museum. Do not miss watching the Sammlung Boros Bunker. Dishes to Try: CurryWurst, Schnitzel, Eisbein. 9. Seattle, USA   Overview: The state of Seattle, USA can anytime be one of the best places to travel in June 2021 USA. So, you can always pick this place for the trip. Alluring weather is the primary thing that you can expect in the state during June. Do not think Seattle to be one of the best places to travel in April as you can miss the Fremont Solstice Parade. As a result, you would not find anything to enjoy in this state if you visit it other than June. This is obviously a place for travelers who are reluctant to make a huge plan for the mid-year trip. Moreover, you can choose it if you have time and money constraints. Reaching Up: By Air: You can leach Seattle by Air as there are regular domestic flights. By Road: Seattle is connected to all other states in the country with a rich network of highways. Important Activities: Spend some quality time in Pioneer Square. Get to the top of the Space Needle. Indulge in shopping at the Pike Place Market. Dishes to Try: Seafood, Burger, Fried Chicken. 10. Zadar- Dalmatia, Croatia   Overview: As a traveler who loves visiting known places in off-beat times, you can visit Zadar, Croatia. You would get the best view of the Croatian coast while a trip in June. The best you can do is spend most of your time in the city of Dalmatia. You can expect the city to welcome you with all her heart. Expect the love to show up in nature. Reaching Up: By Air: There are regular flights to Croatia from different airports in the US. Important Activities: Spend time sightseeing in Dalmatia. Explore the coast of Croatia. Have a good time chugging some beer. Dishes to Try: Peka, Pasta. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. Where Should I Vacation In Summer 2022? Any hill station would be the best place to go on a vacation in the summer of 2022. Q2. What Is The Best Country To Visit In 2022? Australia is the best country to visit in 2022. Q3. Which Country Is Best To Visit In June? Croatia can be the best country to visit in June. Q4. Where Is The Best Weather In June? Seattle has the best weather in June. Final Words So, these are some places that you can travel to in June this year. Well, if you have started planning for the trip from now on, it is the best step you have taken. Select a destination and purchase tickets to reach the place. Moreover, you can book the hotels according to your affordability too. Always remember that with all planning done, you can expect an outstanding tour. It would also remain in your heart as a long-cherished memory. Read Also: Top 5 Travel Tips For Your Next Trip To China 9 Things Every Traveler Should Know When Visiting Shanghai

BY  Sibashree Nov 12, 2025

There are three instances I clearly remember from our trip to the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The best thing about the Great Barrier Island wildlife tours is that they begin even before you board the ferry.  Here, I will start with some fun moments we had while exploring the wildlife of Great Barrier Island, then gradually discuss the details. So, let’s examine the rugged, predator-free paradise in New Zealand's Hauraki Gulf.  My Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours: Some Stories That Have Stayed With Me With around 60% of the Great Barrier Island being a conservation area, the Aotea Great Barrier Island in New Zealand shines with sustainability certificates and its commitment to preserving the indigenous flora and the rare and endemic fauna of the island.  1. The Biosecurity Check  We were about to board the ferry to the Great Barrier Island. The Auckland Regional Council and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) people did thorough biosecurity checks of our bags, and we had to clean our boots. Thus, they make a visitor part of the island's conservation effort.  This check is mandatory, and this is the reason the pāteke and kākā are thriving on the island. 2. The Dark Sky Sanctuary And The Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours  Great Barrier Island’s designation as a Dark Sky Sanctuary has enhanced the wildlife tour experiences. We went out to see the Milky Way at night, and we stood quietly and listened to the sound of silence.  Suddenly, we were startled by the more-pork cry of the Ruru birds. Also, we saw the black petrels or Tākoketai coming back to their burrows.  3. Did I See A Chevron Skink? Did I Not? See, Chevron Skink also feels like a mythical species. These nocturnal species are the masters of camouflage. So, honestly, we did not see them with our naked eyes.  However, we could listen to the squeaks and grunts of the Chevron Skinks. It was thrilling knowing that we were walking through their only habitat in the world, which is protected by sanctuaries like Glenfern.  Why Is Aotea Great Barrier Island A Paradise For Wildlife Tours?  Afar, a US-based travel media brand, has named Aotea Great Barrier Island one of the top 25 off-the-beaten-track destinations in the world.  Aotea, Great Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf, is a designated dark sky sanctuary. So, it is ideal for spotting and listening to the nocturnal birds and animals.  Furthermore, the Department of Conservation (DOC) maintains 60% conservation land on the Aotea Great Barrier Island. As a result, it is the island of Firsts" and "Lasts.” It means that the island has birds such as North Island kākā and pāteke (brown teal), which are found nowhere else in the world.  In addition, the "Predator-Free" Secret of the Island is truly special. In the absence of stoats, possums, weasels, or deer, the rare and endemic species here have been able to thrive.  Along with all these endeavors, the Great Barrier Island has been successful in community-led conservation efforts, maintaining biodiversity and species protection. Here are the details.  1. Aotea Great Barrier Island Environmental Trust “The principle activities of the Trust are in protecting, enhancing, developing and maintaining habitats for New Zealand native and endemic species on Aotea Great Barrier Island, with a particular focus on pest management…” Founded in 2002, this trust has been an advocate for conservation policies, has coordinated many conservation efforts, and earned funding for local conservation projects.  2. Aotea Conservation Park  The 2,000-hectare Aotea Conservation Park with walking tracks, DOC huts, and campsites makes the island an ideal destination for exploring the wildlife.  3. Marine Conservation  The Aotea Great Barrier Environmental Trust’s Tai Timu Tai Pari” or “Sea Change” initiative aims to protect the marine ecosystem of the Hauraki Gulf. Furthermore, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has proposed to build a large marine conservation area in the northeast corner of the island.  In addition, beach clean-ups and educational programs have been effective local endeavors to preserve the marine life of the island.  4. Biodiversity And Species Protection  The island is a critical nesting ground for the black petrels. The Department of Conservation takes care of the nesting ground.  Furthermore, around 60% of the pāteke population in New Zealand is present on the Great Barrier Island. These birds are frequently spotted in places such as Kaitoke Wetlands.  You can visit the Kaitoke Wetlands just before dusk. Park at the end of the road, walk the flat boardwalk, and wait quietly by the main pond. You will almost certainly see and hear the rare pāteke (brown teal) as they come out to feed. Chevron skink, 13 different types of lizards, banded rail, and North Island Kaka are some other native species that exist on the Great Barrier Island.  What Are The Must-See Wildlife Attractions On The Aotea Great Barrier Island In New Zealand?  The Glenfern Sanctuary, Aotea Track, Kaitoke Hot Springs, and the coastal areas are ideal for spotting the unique and rich wildlife of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  1. The Pāteke (Brown Teal) Pāteke is one of the rarest ducks in the world. The Great Barrier Island is a stronghold for these ducks, and you will find them in the Kaitoke Wetlands.  The Department of Conservation and Predator Free NZ Trust are two important bodies taking care of the conservation efforts to protect these birds. Habitat management and predator control are two main elements of protecting the Pāteke birds.  Now, you understand why biosecurity is so crucial for these adorable ducks on the Great Barrier Island.  2. The Black Petrel (Takoketai) This seabird breeds only on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier islands. They nest in burrows high in the mountains. The Glenfern Sanctuary protects a key colony of these birds.  However, the main breeding colony on Aotea is at Mount Hobson/Hirakimata. According to the Department of Conservation, around 900-1000 pairs of birds stay there.  These birds are featured on the IUCN Red List as a vulnerable species. Furthermore, they are identified as “Nationally Vulnerable” in New Zealand.  Moreover, there has been a conservation monitoring going on since 1995 to assess the population of these birds and how they are declining.  3. The Chevron Skink (Niho Taniwha) This large, rare lizard is found only on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier. It is almost like a mythical animal, and spotting it is very unlikely.  However, they mostly stay in the Stream-side forests. It is listed as nationally vulnerable by the Threat Classification System of the Department of Conservation.  The sightings of these lizards are so important that DOC asks you to report to the local office or call at +64 9 429 0044 whenever you spot one.  4. The North Island Kākā It is a large, intelligent, and noisy native parrot. It is famous for the loud "screech" and "chatter. I saw a few of them high in the forest canopy along the Mt Hobson track.  The Glenfern Sanctuary is another spot where you will find these parrots. The Great Barrier Island is an important habitat for these birds as it offers a predator-free environment.  5. Dolphins And Marine Life Aotea’s location on the edge of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, the national park of the sea, makes it rich in marine life. The Hauraki Gulf and the Great Barrier Island were both formed due to massive volcanic activity at the end of the Ice Age.  In 1769, James Cook named the island because of how it protected the Hauraki Gulf.  The water of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park has 22 species of marine mammals. Bottlenose and common dolphins are often seen from the ferry or playing in bays like Okupu (Blind Bay) and Whangaparapara Harbour. You may even spot Bryde's whales there.  Furthermore, seabirds are important members of the Marine Park. Black petrels are, of course, the most common among them.  Coastal camping is the best outdoor experience if you want to explore the marine life of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Here are some popular coastal campsites.  Akapoua Bay Campsite Near Port Fitzroy, Ideal for Spotting Pohutukawa Trees and Fishing Awana Beach Campsite, Ideal for Surfers Harataonga Campsite, Great for Swimming and Snorkeling Medlands Beach Campsite, Surfing and Picnic Spot  The Green Campsite at Whangaparapara Harbour, Ideal for a Serene Walk and as a Secluded Retreat Whangapoua Campsite, a Popular Surf-Break.  A Guide To Aotea Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours: Species, Sanctuaries, And Different Types Of Wildlife Tours  During the wildlife tours, our primary concern was how to spot native birds on Great Barrier Island. Little did we know that we would hear them before actually seeing them flapping their wings.  We heard the screeching call of kākā as we were hiking through the Mount Hobson Track. Then, we saw a cloud of birds passing over our heads.  Nevertheless, it’s not just about the birds. Aotea, Great Barrier Island in New Zealand, is home to endless endemic species.  1. Specialist Day Tours & Sanctuary Visits The Glenfern Sanctuary of the Great Barrier Island is a haven for the endangered and rare species. It is an 83-acre regional park, and it functions as the “gateway to the 240-hectare Kotuku Peninsula of the north-west coastline of the Great Barrier Island.” Furthermore, the Glenfern Sanctuary Trust is committed to the preservation of the endangered flora and fauna and their habitats as you walk through the 2km loop track through a native bush to spot the birds and native species.  The black petrels and the ancient Kauri trees are the biggest highlights of this tour. The sanctuary remains open 7 days a week and from sunrise to sunset.  Moreover, you must hike through the Sanctuary and Loop Track to explore nature, wildlife, and the unique culture of the Great Barrier Island.  Sanctuary And Loop Track The Glefern Loop Track is one of the easiest Great Barrier Island hiking tracks. Here, you will have to walk along the Aotea stream and through the remnants of an ancient native bush.  The bush is protected by the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust of New Zealand, and it is rich in bird life. So, here, you will spot black petrels, Kaka, and Pāteke.  You can contact the regional office at 09 4290 091 to know about the further details.  2. The All-Inclusive Multi-Day Guided Walk If you want a more immersive wildlife experience, you must choose the all-inclusive multi-day guided walks. MoaTours and Go Great Barrier Island Tourism are two such services taking care of your accommodation, food, expert guides, and transport.  They focus on the best tracks, like the Aotea Track, Mt Hobson, and Kaitoke Wetlands. Furthermore, the guides are flora and fauna experts. For example, you can try the “Let’s Go Wild,” “The Aotea Track” package of the Great Barrier Island. Two of the main highlights of this tour are the wetlands and the unique wildlife.  It is a 3-day hiking experience, and the charge per person (adults) will be $541 (Standard Route) or $596 (The Windy Canyon Route).  MoaTours, on the other hand, organizes a 5-day Great Barrier Island small group tour, covering areas such as the Medlands Beach and Tryphena Harbour. The charges will be   $4,390 NZD for solo travelers and $3,890 NZD for twin travelers.  3. Self-Guided Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours  The self-guided tours to explore the wildlife of the Great Barrier Island are ideal for an independent traveler. For example, you can go for the Glefern Sanctuary self-guided walks and learn about the biodiversity of the sanctuary, its conservation efforts, and more.  You can contact Steve, the manager of the sanctuary, at 0210826670 to be a part of these tours.  Furthermore, you can create your own Great Barrier Island wildlife tours by planning a visit to the Kaitoke Wetlands, Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) Track, Medlands Beach & Onetangi, and Windy Canyon.  How To Spot Native Birds On Great Barrier Island? A DIY Guide For Wildlife Tours  I have already mentioned the Glefern Sanctuary self-guided walks. Along with that, you can visit any of these areas for a perfect wildlife exploration on the Great Barrier Island.  1. Kaitoke Wetlands The Glefern Sanctuary offers a guided tour to the Kaitoke Hot Springs, located on the Mount Hobson Track. You can access the track from the Whangaparapara Road.  Furthermore, you will find a series of geothermal pools on the Kaitoke Hot Springs track. This area, maintained by the Department of Conservation (DoC), is a treasure hub for native birds.  Here, we had to walk through an easy boardwalk and gravel road to encounter pāteke and spotless crakes. And thanks to the new Kai swing bridge here, the route has now become wheelchair and buggy accessible.  Even when we were swimming in the geothermal pools, we could listen to the calls of the pātekes.  2. Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) Track The Peach Tree Track to Mount Hobson is the best route for spotting native birds and the wildlife of the Great Barrier Island. The route passes through regenerating forests, and these forests are home to a lot of native bird species, such as: Kākā Tūī: Tomtit (Miromiro) North Island Robin (Pītoitoi) Black Petrel (Takoketai) You can spot these birds in the dense native bush. Also, you can see them in large numbers near the high slopes and close to the summit. In addition, the 360-degree view of the island is a bonus you will love to count on.  3. Medlands Beach & Onetangi Medlands Beach and Onetangi are famous for coastal and nearshore wildlife like the paradise shelducks and little blue penguins.  Furthermore, wekas are common in these locations, and these are chosen as the reintroduction programs of the North Island brown kiwi.  4. Windy Canyon On the Windy Canyon hiking route, you will find conservation centers such as the Kiwi Park Queenstown. Here, you will find native species such as tuatara and Kiwi.  Furthermore, throughout the route, you will listen to the buzzing cicadas.  The Best Tips For Spotting The Birds On The Great Barrier Island  Dawn and dusk are the best hours of the day for spotting birds on the Great Barrier Island. “Dawn Chorus” is a real experience on the Great Barrier Island.  Once you reach the spot, be patient and wait quietly, as patience is a virtue for bird watching.  Keep your ears open. You'll hear the tūī's "click-whirr-gurgle" and the kākā's "screech" before you see them. Going nocturnal is a great trick for watching the native birds of the Great Barrier Island. That is why being a Dark Sky Sanctuary is crucial for the Aotea Great Barrier Island.  Carry a red-light torch and be alert about the "more-pork" call of the Ruru to spot the birds in the dark.  Talk to the staff of the hotel or the owner of the homestay you are staying in. They will have the best local tips about birdwatching on the Great Barrier Island.  How To Plan The Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours?  There are three main aspects of planning Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. 1. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island? You can take a Barrier Air flight from Auckland to reach the Great Barrier Island in 45 minutes. You can even take the SeaLink ferry and complete a journey of 4.5 hours to reach the Great Barrier Island.  2. How To Move Around The Great Barrier Island? Renting a car or a bike is the most convenient option to move around the island. Furthermore, kayaking is an excellent way to explore the bays, caves, and diverse marine life of the island.  3. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Great Barrier Island Wildlife? From September to November, or the spring season, is the ideal time to visit the wildlife of Great Barrier Island. This is the nesting season for most birds on the island.  So, these months are the best for listening to the chorus of the dawn and the dusk.  Being A Responsible Tourist To Protect The Wildlife Of The Great Barrier Island Biosecurity is the most important aspect of the Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. The wildlife of the island is thriving as it is maintained as a sanctuary. So, by cooperating with the biosecurity checks at the DoC-approved facilities and cleaning stations, we have to be a part of the conservation effort.  The 3C policy of the biosecurity checks on the Great Barrier Island is: Check Clean Check We have to check our bags, gear, and shoes for pests (rats, mice, insects) and seeds before they leave the mainland.  Your Great Barrier Adventure Awaits The Aotea Great Barrier Island is a nature lover’s dream, with every nook awaiting a surprise with the native birds and their playful chirps. Furthermore, the Glenfern Sanctuary, Mount Hobson Track, and the wetlands on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are a stronghold for rare and endemic birds and animals.  So, the birds are calling. Are you ready to answer?