Zodiac Landings and Wildlife in Antarctica

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Here are a few guidelines that you will be asked to follow. More detailed instructions (IAATO [International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators] Recommendation XVIII-1 Visitors Guideline) will is normally provided by the tour operator or cruise line that you book with.

  • Listen and obey Expedition Team instructions.
  • Keep track of time. Do not delay others – return to the landing site prior to the appointed time of departure.
  • Never wander off alone or out of sight of the Team positioned ashore.
  • Maintain visual contact with Team members.
  • Do not walk onto glaciers – there may be hidden crevasses.
  • No smoking ashore.
  • No littering, souvenir collecting, or urinating ashore.
  • Avoid taking items ashore that could become accidental litter: film boxes, tissues, etc.
  • Anything that you carry to a landing should be returned to the ship.

    Safe Behavior Near Wildlife

    Do not touch animals.

    Keep a minimum distance of 5 meters (15 feet) from all animals – especially nesting birds.

    If an animal’s behavior changes – you are too close. Although the animal may not show obvious fear, they could still be distressed. Remember, if bird leaves its nest, the eggs or chicks are at risk.

    Fur seals are usual dangerous, therefore keep a greater distance than 5 meters from them at all times.

    Always give wildlife the right of way.

    Avoid coming between an animal and the shore or ocean.

    Be Aware of Your Surroundings

    Move slowly and always check behind you.

    Birds flying or calling overhead signifies you are too close to a nest or young chicks. Retrace your steps the way you came.

    Do not make sudden movements.

    Keep quiet – do not make loud or sudden noises.

    Keep low if possible – you will appear less threatening to animals and it will also yield better photographs for you.

    Do not try to make an animal react for a photograph.

    Patience yields the best rewards.

    Standing still for long periods of time can be of great benefit when viewing wildlife.

    Protecting Fragile Vegetation

    Avoid walking on moss beds, lichens, or grasses. They are very delicate and slow growing.

    Always wash your boots on the ship before and after each landing.

    Leave nothing but foot prints.

    BASIC PRINCIPLE

    Do not disturb wildlife, historical remains on the landscape    .
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