The Falkland Islands
We had a very eventful and fulfilling day in the western islands of the Falkland Group as the Endeavour took us to two very different islands: Carcass Island in the morning and West Point Island in the afternoon. This region is well known for its numerous spectacular wildlife sites, but holds without question the most rugged and dramatic scenery, as well. So, where within the Falklands can one find the best combination of both wildlife and scenery?
I would argue it is on the windward side of West Point Island—near the Devil’s Nose. This fascinating geological structure is a narrow precipice formed through a fault in ancient sandstone cliffs and projects out into the sea from cliffs that tower more than 300 feet above the ocean. It is often windy, as it was today, and affords a perfect habitat for nesting black-browed albatrosses and rockhopper penguins. The scenery is both awesome and foreboding at the same time, but the presence of thousands of nesting birds gives it a sense of serenity as well.
We could well understand why the albatrosses are here, but why do the little rockhoppers struggle so hard to nest high up on these slopes among the albatrosses? It seems too much work for them to climb hundreds of feet on steep rocks and then traverse the tussock grass for hundreds more, especially considering the size of their little legs. Some of us, even with our long legs, tired in the tussock. Some of our guests questioned my sanity in wanting to take people out onto the Devil’s Nose itself (see photo), but those who braved the climb and the wind and the vertigo were rewarded with an unforgettable energizing view—definitely on my short list of favorite places on Earth!
We had a very eventful and fulfilling day in the western islands of the Falkland Group as the Endeavour took us to two very different islands: Carcass Island in the morning and West Point Island in the afternoon. This region is well known for its numerous spectacular wildlife sites, but holds without question the most rugged and dramatic scenery, as well. So, where within the Falklands can one find the best combination of both wildlife and scenery?
I would argue it is on the windward side of West Point Island—near the Devil’s Nose. This fascinating geological structure is a narrow precipice formed through a fault in ancient sandstone cliffs and projects out into the sea from cliffs that tower more than 300 feet above the ocean. It is often windy, as it was today, and affords a perfect habitat for nesting black-browed albatrosses and rockhopper penguins. The scenery is both awesome and foreboding at the same time, but the presence of thousands of nesting birds gives it a sense of serenity as well.
We could well understand why the albatrosses are here, but why do the little rockhoppers struggle so hard to nest high up on these slopes among the albatrosses? It seems too much work for them to climb hundreds of feet on steep rocks and then traverse the tussock grass for hundreds more, especially considering the size of their little legs. Some of us, even with our long legs, tired in the tussock. Some of our guests questioned my sanity in wanting to take people out onto the Devil’s Nose itself (see photo), but those who braved the climb and the wind and the vertigo were rewarded with an unforgettable energizing view—definitely on my short list of favorite places on Earth!
