Island Update: Autumn

It is that time of year on the island where days are getting shorter and the island is getting quieter. The majority of skuas, giant petrels, smaller albatross species, and royal and rockhopper penguins have left the island for winter, leaving empty colonies that are usually the busy metropolis of the island. The main sounds around station are the call of gentoo penguins at their practice nests, combined with the snort or fart of an elephant seal. Along the east-coast, king penguin chicks are now more independent and have formed creches, walking around with their fluffy down jackets testing out how the oversized flippers work.

In the southern corner of the island the wandering albatross chicks are now left unattended by their parents while both parents forage at sea, returning every few weeks to feed their chicks. Recent heavy snow falls and strong winds have left the island looking like a shaken up snow dome. The expeditioners on the island are all awaiting a ride home after the season was unexpectedly extended due to shipping delays, while the incoming expeditioners are keen to set foot on the Green Sponge and settle into their home for the next 12 months. For many this will be the first time they see the island. A big thanks to the outgoing team who have put in so much hard work over the last year to look after the island and best wishes to the new team who will call Macca home.