myTobago – your questions, review and comment about Tobago

Another photo I would like to share with readers and one to which an embarassing story is attached.

I was wandering along Castara main beach with heavyweight cameras slung around my kneck, having photographed views of Castara Retreats from the beach for our review. As I passed by Cascreole, the Rasta guy who has the adjacent herbal (???) massage shack called out to me and signalled for me to go over. I assumed he was trying to sell me a massage, or whatever. I waved back and continued on my way. He called out even louder. I shouted back "Not today, thanks" and continued. He stormed down the beach and said "I'm not trying to sell you anything, man. I thought you were photographing birds and I've got something to show you".

Expecting a catch, I followed him over to the trees behind his shack. His face beamed as he showed me a tiny hummingbird nest with two chicks - about half the size of this photo. The entire nest was no larger than an egg cup. You will notice the thread leading up from the right side of the nest. The mother had literally tied the nest to the branch above so that it couldn't be blown away. It was a very special moment.

Needless to say, I was not sold anything nor expected to give a tip. I left with my head hung low. I saw the guy several times after that and always got a cheery wave and call. Tobago can really humble you sometimes.

Fantastic picture Steve. What an incredible nest.

Tobago can really humble you sometimes.

Yep, I know that feeling.

Great story and pic Steve

What an amazing experience Steve.

Thanks for putting the picture on the forum. We're going to be staying at the Inn on the Bay where there are supposed to be lots of different birds in the gardens - but I don't expect to be as lucky as you have been.

Jane

Hi Jane

To see the best of Tobago birdlife, you really need to get into the more hilly areas where there is lots of tree cover. Having said that, while Lambeau (where the Inn On The Bay) is not exactly the peak of birding activity, you will still see lots and lots of birds of many different species, as everywhere in Tobago.

While we were staying at the Inn On The Bay recently, we were highly amused by a pair of English birders who arrived during our stay. Heavens, it must have taken them an hour to get all their kit on. You have never seen so much fancy clothing, webbing, pouched pockets and equipment. Oh, they even had the floppy sun hats, tied under the chin. Their scope and tripod must have been flown in by special cargo plane.

I thought they were off for a real heavyweight expedition into the rainforest with someone like expert guide Newton George. No, they spent the morning around the grounds of the Inn On The Bay. I don't know how many species they spotted, but they certainly looked rather incongruous in the formal gardens of the hotel.

I shouldn't joke about them really. I'm the first one to go and get "all the gear" when I take up a new hobby.

Yes, a fantastic photo.

By the way, Steve, we're pretty sure we saw you on our way to Castera in a taxi back in February. You had just got out of your car with your large(!) camera about to take the view I think of Castera Bay. We had gone well down the road, when it registered. We asked after you at Castera beach and it was confirmed that you were staying locally at that time. Fame follows you everywhere!

Pat

Steve,

Like the story! We aren't avid birders - but do like to see the local avian wildlife. It's even better when you can do it from the comfort of your sun lounger, rum punch in hand!

Last time we were in Tobago, we stayed at Grafton Beach and spent a couple of very pleasant afternoons visiting the bird santuary just a few minutes walk from there. It's amazing how many birds you see when they know theyare going to get fed at 4.00pm!

Hope you enjoyed your stay at Inn on the Bay - 3 weeks today we'll be there!

Jane