Discovering the Rocky Intertidal Zone at Sheikh Ibrahim Island
Bahrain 
Our half-day trip to Sheikh Ibrahim Island brought together nature lovers and curious minds to explore the fascinating world of the intertidal zone – that unique area where land and sea meet. The island’s shores provided an exciting opportunity to dive into the rich ecology and biodiversity of this vital ecosystem.
We kicked off the day with a 30-minute boat ride, expertly navigated by our captain Anish and his crew member Bruce Lee (yes, that’s his real name!). Upon reaching Sheikh Ibrahim Island, we headed to the shore and laid out a picnic mat. Participants enjoyed karak, snacks, and lively conversation while taking the opportunity to connect with each other and learn about the island’s fascinating history.
As the tide receded, we had the chance to explore the intertidal habitats. Mr. Khalil Alwedaei, our education leader, shared his expertise on the diverse ecology of the area, and participants were eager to get a closer look with their magnifying glasses. There was plenty to discover, from the small creatures living under rocks to the plants thriving in this ever-changing environment.
The island also serves as an important stop for birds, and participants were able to observe cormorant birds in their natural habitat. It was a great opportunity to see how these birds adapt to the island’s coastal environment.
Overall, the trip was a rewarding experience for all involved. Whether it was learning about the intricate ecosystem of the intertidal zone, gaining insights into the plastic pollution issue or simply enjoying the day in good company, it was a reminder of the beauty and complexity of our natural world.
Here are some testimonials from participants who joined us for the day:
I had an amazing time on the Sheikh Ibrahim Island field visit with Nuwat! The whole day was so well organised, I knew exactly what to expect, and the team made me feel very welcomed from the start. The Nuwat team is super passionate and knowledgeable. They made everything so easy to understand, even though I don’t have a science background. I learned so much about Bahrain’s history and its incredible biodiversity. It was also great to meet other people who are passionate about the environment. Highly recommend their courses to anyone curious about nature!
Team Nuwat always exceeds my expectations. Never was field learning so enjoyable, thought-provoking, and perspective changing. I learned not only about marine life and adaptations but also witnessed the heartbreaking impact of plastic pollution. And added to this, I learned about local history & myths and cultural traditions and practices! Lastly, I loved meeting others who care deeply about our Mother Earth while drinking karak tea.