I traveled the long journey to Antarctica in hopes of locating and documenting gentoo penguin colonies by means of photography. Upon arrival of the frozen desert, I was pleasantly surprised and this is what I found.
The Search for Gentoo Penguin Colonies
IMAGE CAPTURED AT
64.88900° S, 62.92530° W
Life Within the Colony
I was startled as to how many gentoo penguins were present once reaching the Antarctic Peninsula. Gentoo penguins were seen swimming and thrusting out of the water, as well as occupying the rocks and land. I immediately confirmed that some of the larger gentoo colonies consist of thousands of birds.
I met with and spoke to researchers at the mobile science center where I learned a great deal about colony living and eating habits of these penguins. It wasn’t long before I made my first landing and shared the same general area as the penguins. Keeping a safe distance, it was clear these penguins were not threatened by humans and were actually quite social.
Nesting, Mating and Movement
It was easy to see that mating season had arrived for the gentoo penguins. The male penguins meet the female by presenting them with smooth pebbles, which ultimately assists in creating nests.
It was incredible watching these penguins repeatedly follow specific routes often referred to as “penguin highways.” The routes appeared to be the most direct route in getting from point A to point B, which emphasized efficiency and intelligence.
Overall, this is only a small fraction of a tremendous study and learning process.
I Met Mike on an Expedition in the Arctic Fjords. He Put Together Some Very Nice Videos I Will Be Using for My Business.
Henrick H.
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