Isla Martillo, the show of nature

"I can't believe it!!! Again these strange bipeds, with that funny and uncertain walk, moving chaotically, completely careless of the other members of the herd. They prowl apparently confused, without any guiding instincts. They don't look for food, they don't brood eggs, they don't take care of the nest. Well, that's a bizarre species, these humans...

Probably Mr Penguin might have thought something very similar to that. He stared at me in the eyes for a few seconds and then he went back to snooze together with his fellows. As recommended by the guide, we landed in Isla Martillo (Argentina's Patagonia ) on tiptoe, to not frighten the penguins scattered on the beach. Being only three meters away (enough distance to not be considered a danger), from these cute aquatic birds, make me feel the same emotion that might have experienced an explorer while discovering an animal species never seen before.

It's the season of brooding and weaning of baby penguins, which usually starts in October. The two species that normally live in the island are the Magellanic Penguin and the Papua Penguin. Unexpectedly there is also a couple of King penguins, larger than the others, recognizable by the characteristic light orange coloration in the upper part of the chest. The males strive to make the nests comfortable, bringing grass, straw and other material. Better to not risk a piqued quarrel with Mrs. Penguin. She looks wary while brooding and caring for the voracious offspring.

To attend this live nature' show you must contact the agency Piratour in Ushuaia, the only one authorized to transit, with no more than 80 people a day, through the property of the Estancia Harberton, that's the only way to reach the island. Also, included in the tour, a quick visit to the Acatushun Museum where the world's largest collection of marine mammals complete skeletons are exhibited.

Images of the author

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