{"id":19146001,"date":"2026-09-10T11:37:02","date_gmt":"2026-09-10T09:37:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/?p=19146001"},"modified":"2026-09-10T11:37:02","modified_gmt":"2026-09-10T09:37:02","slug":"wildlife-south-georgia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/","title":{"rendered":"South Georgia is bursting with life"},"content":{"rendered":"

[et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 admin_label=\u201dsection\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d5px||1px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d38px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d custom_margin=\u201d-8px|||||\u201d custom_padding=\u201d40px||40px||true|\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

With Petra Glardon, PONANT EXPLORATIONS naturalist guide<\/h2>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

A journey to South Georgia<\/span><\/b><\/a> is an opportunity to discover a sub-Antarctic island where the grandeur of the landscapes rivals the extraordinary abundance of wildlife. Exposed to some of the most powerful winds on Earth, this remote southern land is home to vast colonies of king penguins, whose sheer numbers can at times blanket entire beaches. Petra Glardon shares her insights into this remarkable world, where wildlife is constantly reshaping the shoreline.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px|||||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_testimonial portrait_url=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Petra_Glardon_1.jpg\u201d portrait_width=\u201d180px\u201d portrait_height=\u201d180px\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d body_font=\u201d||||||||\u201d text_orientation=\u201dleft\u201d width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Petra Glardon<\/strong><\/p>\n

For more than twenty years, Petra Glardon has travelled throughout the polar regions, from Antarctic waters to the shores of South Georgia. A biologist specialising in marine mammals and a naturalist guide with PONANT EXPLORATIONS, she accompanies expeditions dedicated to observing colonies of king penguins, Antarctic fur seals and the whales and dolphins of the Southern Ocean. These voyages allow her to observe, season after season, the great cycles of life that shape the wildlife of the Southern Ocean.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px|||||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Why does South Georgia hold such a special place in the polar world?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||40px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

South Georgia<\/span><\/a> is very different from <\/span>Antarctica<\/span><\/b>.<\/span><\/a> It certainly shares the dramatic beauty of polar landscapes, with snow-capped peaks and <\/span>glaciers<\/span><\/b> that tumble down to the sea. But as part of the sub-Antarctic island arc, north of the White Continent, it lies beyond the reach of the vast expanses of sea ice. Visitors encounter glacial valleys and, perhaps more surprisingly, pockets of vegetation flourishing at these southern latitudes.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2382_Y161122-GEORGIE-DU-SUD-SAINT-ANDREWS\u00a9StudioPONANT-Adrien-MORLENT.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dA large glacier flowing down the slope of a rocky, snow-capped mountain in Saint Andrews Bay, South Georgia \u201d title_text=\u201dLow-Resolution-No-2382_Y161122-GEORGIE-DU-SUD-SAINT-ANDREWS\u00a9StudioPONANT-Adrien-MORLENT\u201d align=\u201dcenter\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px|||||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

What always strikes me is the contrast between the apparent harshness of the place \u2014 a remote sub-Antarctic island set amid one of the most inhospitable oceans on Earth \u2014 and its <\/span>extraordinary abundance of wildlife<\/span><\/b>, almost overwhelming in scale. There are also the island\u2019s <\/span>remarkably vivid colours<\/span><\/b>: the white of the glaciers, the green of certain valleys, the deep blue of the water, and the dark beaches teeming with animals. Throughout the experience, there is a constant sense of entering a realm that does not belong to us.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 classic\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#f7f7f7\u2033 width_tablet=\u201d\u201d width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d width_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||50px||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|50px|50px|50px|false|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|40px||40px|false|true\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dcenter\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

\u00a0An Island at the end of the world<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=\u201doff\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d width=\u201d15%\u201d width_tablet=\u201d150px\u201d width_phone=\u201d150px\u201d width_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d module_alignment=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||40px||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||||false|false\u201d border_width_bottom=\u201d4px\u201d border_color_bottom=\u201d#26afc2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Located nearly 1,500 kilometres from the <\/span>Falkland Islands<\/span><\/a>, South Georgia can only be reached after several days at sea without a port call. Yet along its modest 170-kilometre length, the island boasts eleven peaks rising above 2,000 metres, vast coastal glaciers, and some of the largest wildlife colonies in the Southern Ocean. A tiny speck in the vastness of the Southern Ocean, but one whose isolation and extraordinary abundance of wildlife leave a lasting impression on all who visit.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px|||||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

What wildlife can be observed in South Georgia?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

South Georgia is home to around 95% of the world\u2019s Antarctic fur seals, about half of the world\u2019s southern elephant seals, and vast colonies of king penguins.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d2_5,3_5\u2033 admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 decalage\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d50px||50px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dleft\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d background_color=\u201d#307f90\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d|-30%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d|0%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|75%|30px|20px|true|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px|||true|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

In the kingdom of the king penguins<\/strong><\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#f7f7f7\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d50px|||-25%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d0px|||0%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d custom_padding=\u201d40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

The second-largest penguin species after the emperor penguin, the <\/span>king penguin<\/span><\/a> can grow to nearly one metre in height and weigh up to 15 kilograms. In South Georgia, its colonies are among the largest in the world, numbering more than 75,000 pairs at <\/span>Salisbury Plain<\/span><\/b> during the peak season, and even more at <\/span>St Andrews Bay.<\/span><\/b> Remarkably, these colonies remain occupied throughout the year, as the king penguin\u2019s breeding cycle lasts for more than a year.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d module_class=\u201dhy-carousel-img\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d100px||100px||true|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d50px||50px||true|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d50px||50px||true|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d collapsed=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d module_class=\u201dswiper-slide\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d65vh\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px|0px||0px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d0px|0px||0px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|20px||20px|false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-Comite-HD-St-Andrews-\u00a9Studio-Ponant-Laurence-FISCHER-14.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dA colony of king penguins on the shore in front of a glacier in South Georgia \u201d title_text=\u201dLow-Resolution-Comite-HD-St-Andrews-\u00a9Studio-Ponant\u2013Laurence-FISCHER-14\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d height=\u201d65vh\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201d67498989-fe43-4cc1-80eb-d194df7858f4\u2033 text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#FFFFFF\u201d text_font_size=\u201d14px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d10px||||false|false\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d14px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d12px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

King penguins<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d module_class=\u201dswiper-slide\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d65vh\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px|0px||0px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d0px|0px||0px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|20px||20px|false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-3_Georgie_du_Sud_otaries_Fortuna-Bay\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeMonneret.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dTwo fur seals, one blonde and the other black, interacting in the water\u201d title_text=\u201dLow-Resolution-3_Georgie_du_Sud_otaries_Fortuna-Bay\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeMonneret\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d height=\u201d65vh\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201d67498989-fe43-4cc1-80eb-d194df7858f4\u2033 text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#FFFFFF\u201d text_font_size=\u201d14px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d10px||||false|false\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d14px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d12px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Fur seals <\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d module_class=\u201dswiper-slide\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d65vh\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px|0px||0px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d0px|0px||0px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|20px||20px|false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2180_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dA close-up of a sea elephant\u2019s head as it emerges from the water in Grytviken, South Georgia. \u201d title_text=\u201dLow-Resolution-No-2180_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d height=\u201d65vh\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201d67498989-fe43-4cc1-80eb-d194df7858f4\u2033 text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#FFFFFF\u201d text_font_size=\u201d14px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d10px||||false|false\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d14px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d12px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Elephant Seal <\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d module_class=\u201dswiper-slide\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d65vh\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px|0px||0px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d0px|0px||0px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|20px||20px|false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/No-2178_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dClose-up of a Antarctique tern in flight \u201d title_text=\u201dNo-2178_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d height=\u201d65vh\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201d67498989-fe43-4cc1-80eb-d194df7858f4\u2033 text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#FFFFFF\u201d text_font_size=\u201d14px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d10px||||false|false\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d14px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d12px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Arctic tern\u00a0<\/span><\/i>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px||3px|||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Does the wildlife change significantly over the course of the austral summer?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

King penguins<\/span><\/b> remain present on the beaches of South Georgia throughout the year, but their colonies are constantly changing as the season progresses. In December, the large brown chicks, still covered in their thick down, dominate the colonies; a few weeks later, eggs begin to appear, followed by newly hatched chicks. Each stage of the season brings different behaviours, sounds and movements within the colonies, creating an ever-changing spectacle of life.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The beaches, too, follow their own rhythm. At the start of the austral summer, male Antarctic fur seals are the first to arrive, staking out and defending their territories. They are soon joined by the females, and the season\u2019s births begin, before the young gradually take over the shoreline. Sharing this environment are southern elephant seals, <\/span>albatrosses<\/span><\/a> and a wealth of other seabirds, many of which can also be observed while at sea. In South Georgia, wildlife quite literally reshapes the landscape from week to week.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 quote V2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201dRGBA(255,255,255,0)\u201d background_enable_image=\u201doff\u201d background_size=\u201dcustom\u201d background_image_width=\u201d20%\u201d background_position=\u201dtop_left\u201d max_width=\u201d1000px\u201d custom_margin=\u201d50px||||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|50px|18px|50px|false|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|0px||0px|false|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|0px||0px|false|true\u201d background_last_edited=\u201doff|desktop\u201d background_image_width_tablet=\u201d20%\u201d background_image_width_phone=\u201d40%\u201d background_position_tablet=\u201dtop_left\u201d background_horizontal_offset_tablet=\u201d-4%\u201d background_horizontal_offset_phone=\u201d-10%\u201d background_vertical_offset_tablet=\u201d50%\u201d background_vertical_offset_phone=\u201d35%\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201dRGBA(255,255,255,0)\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/picto-quote.png\u201d alt=\u201dpicto-quote\u201d title_text=\u201dpicto-quote\u201d align=\u201dcenter\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d55px\u201d module_alignment=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||40px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 text_font_size=\u201d26px\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dcenter\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.5em\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d text_orientation=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|0px||0px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|0px||0px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d20px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d18px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_tablet=\u201d\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_phone=\u201d\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

The colonies are often heard before they are seen. Depending on the wind direction, their sounds may already reach the ship, like a distant murmur carried across the water.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d21px||21px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Petra Glardon, PONANT EXPLORATIONS naturalist guide<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px||2px|||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

What does it feel like when approaching the colonies?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

The colonies are often heard before they are seen. Depending on the wind direction, their <\/span>sounds<\/span><\/b> may already reach the ship, like a distant murmur carried across the water. Then, as you draw closer in a Zodiac boat, this <\/span>wall of sound<\/span><\/b> becomes increasingly intense before gradually breaking apart into its individual elements: the calls of the penguins, the sharper cries of the chicks, and the Antarctic fur seals answering one another from one end of the beach to the other.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

By the end of the season, <\/span>when the young fur seals gather along the beaches, the noise level becomes almost unbelievable<\/span><\/b>, with constant calls echoing continuously across the colony. When a female returns from the water and <\/span>finds her pup again<\/span><\/b>, <\/span>identifying it first by its voice then by the smell, <\/span><\/b>among thousands of animals, it is always a deeply moving experience.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 quote V2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201dRGBA(255,255,255,0)\u201d background_enable_image=\u201doff\u201d background_size=\u201dcustom\u201d background_image_width=\u201d20%\u201d background_position=\u201dtop_left\u201d max_width=\u201d1000px\u201d custom_margin=\u201d50px||||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|50px|16px|50px|false|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|0px||0px|false|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|0px||0px|false|true\u201d background_last_edited=\u201doff|desktop\u201d background_image_width_tablet=\u201d20%\u201d background_image_width_phone=\u201d40%\u201d background_position_tablet=\u201dtop_left\u201d background_horizontal_offset_tablet=\u201d-4%\u201d background_horizontal_offset_phone=\u201d-10%\u201d background_vertical_offset_tablet=\u201d50%\u201d background_vertical_offset_phone=\u201d35%\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201dRGBA(255,255,255,0)\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/picto-quote.png\u201d alt=\u201dpicto-quote\u201d title_text=\u201dpicto-quote\u201d align=\u201dcenter\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d55px\u201d module_alignment=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||40px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 text_font_size=\u201d26px\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dcenter\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.5em\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d text_orientation=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|0px||0px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|0px||0px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d20px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d18px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_tablet=\u201d\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_phone=\u201d\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

I have been returning to the polar regions for more than twenty years, yet the emotion remains exactly the same.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d23px||21px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Petra Glardon, PONANT EXPLORATIONS naturalist guide<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px||0px|||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

This experience remains just as powerful after all these years?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||40px||false|false\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n

Absolutely. I have been travelling to the polar regions for more than twenty years, and the joy never fades. <\/span>Being surrounded by thousands of animals<\/span><\/b>, in such raw and untamed nature, always stirs something profoundly powerful.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Many guests are deeply moved by what they discover, sometimes to the point of tears. I believe this also stems from a feeling that has become increasingly rare: the sense of entering a territory where human beings are only passing through. Even when conditions become challenging, with wind, cold or rain, every opportunity to go ashore is worth seizing. In these regions, unpredictability is an integral part of the experience.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-JU-4876_O140322_Ushuaia-Ushuai_The-Weddell-Sea\u00a9PONANT-Julien-Fabro.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dTwo young Antarctic fur seals sitting on a pebble beach in South Georgia, with mist-shrouded mountains in the background. \u201d title_text=\u201dLow-Resolution-JU-4876_O140322_Ushuaia-Ushuai_The-Weddell-Sea\u00a9PONANT-Julien-Fabro\u201d align=\u201dcenter\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d16px||21px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Fur seals<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px||0px|||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Does unpredictability play a role in the journey?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n

In these regions, expeditions always follow an itinerary, with planned landings and sites one hopes to reach, but conditions can change very quickly. The weather can shift within a matter of hours, and the animals, of course, follow no script.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This is also what makes these journeys so unique. Each day remains open to the possibility of an unexpected encounter. One may have studied an animal\u2019s behaviour for years without ever witnessing it, only to suddenly observe it in the field. <\/span>This element of uncertainty is an integral part of the polar experience.<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px||3px|||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Does nature still surprise you after all these years?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Constantly! I have, for example, been fortunate enough to witness the birth of an <\/span>Antarctic fur seal <\/span><\/b>on a beach in <\/span>South Georgia<\/span><\/b>. The female was in labour while, all around her, birds were already beginning to gather. It is amazing to observe how nature seems to anticipate what is about to unfold.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px|||||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

The Southern Ocean is also the realm of cetaceans\u2026<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Yes, although nothing is ever guaranteed in these regions. <\/span>Humpback whales<\/span><\/b> can be observed, and sometimes <\/span>orcas<\/span><\/b> as well; in fact, orcas are the animals that fascinate me most. Some populations feed exclusively on fish, while others specialise in hunting <\/span>seals<\/span><\/b>, even creating waves to dislodge their prey from ice floes.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What continues to amaze me is just how different these groups can be from one another. They have distinct vocalisations, behaviours and hunting techniques specific to each \u201cecotype\u201d, even though they may share the same waters. In such a vast and untamed environment, observing them offers a rare insight into animals that remain both complex and still only partly understood.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2256_CR29_B221122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dAerial view of a humpback whale at the surface of the ocean off South Georgia \u201d title_text=\u201dLow-Resolution-No-2256_CR29_B221122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO\u201d align=\u201dcenter\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d max_width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_phone=\u201d100%\u201d max_width_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201d67498989-fe43-4cc1-80eb-d194df7858f4\u2033 text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 text_font_size=\u201d14px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d10px||||false|false\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d14px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d12px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Humpback whale<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d2_5,3_5\u2033 admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 decalage\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d50px||50px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dleft\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d background_color=\u201d#307f90\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d|-30%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d|0%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|75%|30px|20px|true|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px|||true|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

From whaling grounds to a nature sanctuary<\/strong><\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#f7f7f7\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d50px|||-25%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d0px|||0%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d custom_padding=\u201d40px|40px|40px|40px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

At the beginning of the 20th century, South Georgia became one of the main whaling centres in the Southern Ocean. Stations such as Grytviken welcomed whalers and processing industries, leading to a dramatic collapse in populations of cetaceans. Over recent decades, the archipelago has been the focus of major conservation programmes. In particular, the eradication of rats introduced by ships has enabled the return of numerous seabird species. Today, South Georgia is regarded as one of the great sanctuaries of sub-Antarctic biodiversity, with strict regulations in place to protect its ecosystems.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||3px|||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

What difference do naturalist guides make during an expedition?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Our role is to reveal what might otherwise go unnoticed at first glance. This is something I really enjoy about the work; a single detail or explained behaviour can completely transform the way a scene is perceived.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px|||||\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||2px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Is it easy to get close to the animals?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px||0px||false|false\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n

What is particularly striking in <\/span>South Georgia<\/span><\/b> is that the animals do not necessarily perceive humans as a threat. King penguins, in particular, are extremely <\/span>curious<\/span><\/b> and may sometimes approach visitors on their own. This is precisely why we must remain highly attentive to the distance we keep.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All observation is based on <\/span>respectful viewing<\/span><\/b><\/a>, without disturbing animal behaviour<\/span><\/b>. This is also what makes the experience so powerful: the sense of entering a profoundly wild environment, in which we are simply observers.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 admin_label=\u201dPUSH\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d119px||0px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d1_2,1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|50px||50px|false|true\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/No-2358_S030220_ST-ANDREWS\u00a9StudioPONANT-OlivierBlaud_M.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dKing penguin colony in St. Andrews Bay in South Georgia and PONANT Explorations ship on the horizon\u201d title_text=\u201dNo-2358_S030220_ST-ANDREWS\u00a9StudioPONANT-OlivierBlaud_M\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d445px\u201d module_alignment=\u201dcenter\u201d max_height=\u201d445px\u201d custom_margin=\u201d-90px||||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||20px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|50px|||false|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|50px||50px|false|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|20px||20px|false|true\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d text_font=\u201d|700|||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d text_font_size=\u201d38px\u201d text_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d width=\u201d70%\u201d width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d width_phone=\u201d\u201d width_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d custom_margin=\u201d10px||20px||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|||20px|false|false\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d25px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d border_width_left=\u201d5px\u201d border_color_left=\u201d#26afc2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

PONANT takes you there<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d width=\u201d70%\u201d width_tablet=\u201d100%\u201d width_phone=\u201d\u201d width_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Explore the wildlife of the sub-Antarctic islands<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=\u201dhttps:\/\/us.ponant.com\/destinations\/antarctica\u201d url_new_window=\u201don\u201d button_text=\u201dSEE CRUISES IN ANTARCTICA\u201d button_alignment=\u201dleft\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.7\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_margin=\u201d20px||20px||false|false\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

With Petra Glardon, PONANT EXPLORATIONS naturalist guide <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":19146005,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_sitemap_exclude":false,"_sitemap_priority":"","_sitemap_frequency":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1188],"tags":[],"thematique":[1459,1485,1482,1465,1472],"class_list":["post-19146001","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-encounter-us","thematique-antarctica-us","thematique-natural-wonders-us","thematique-penguins-us","thematique-polar-adventures-us","thematique-polar-wildlife-us"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nWildlife of South Georgia: in the heart of an exceptional fauna | PONANT Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore the exceptional wildlife of South Georgia through the eyes of Petra Glardon, a naturalist guide specialising in the polar regions.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Wildlife of South Georgia: in the heart of an exceptional fauna | PONANT Magazine\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Explore the exceptional wildlife of South Georgia through the eyes of Petra Glardon, a naturalist guide specialising in the polar regions.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Magazine de voyage Escales : interviews, inspirations et conseils | Magazine PONANT\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ponant\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-09-10T09:37:02+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2080_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"645\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Sofia De\u202fS\u00e1\u202fPereira\u202f\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@Cie_ponant\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@Cie_ponant\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Wildlife of South Georgia: in the heart of an exceptional fauna | PONANT Magazine","description":"Explore the exceptional wildlife of South Georgia through the eyes of Petra Glardon, a naturalist guide specialising in the polar regions.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Wildlife of South Georgia: in the heart of an exceptional fauna | PONANT Magazine","og_description":"Explore the exceptional wildlife of South Georgia through the eyes of Petra Glardon, a naturalist guide specialising in the polar regions.","og_url":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/","og_site_name":"Magazine de voyage Escales : interviews, inspirations et conseils | Magazine PONANT","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ponant","article_published_time":"2026-09-10T09:37:02+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1000,"height":645,"url":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2080_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Sofia De\u202fS\u00e1\u202fPereira\u202f","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@Cie_ponant","twitter_site":"@Cie_ponant","schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/"},"author":{"name":"Sofia De\u202fS\u00e1\u202fPereira\u202f","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#\/schema\/person\/c9d84b9102c6c2d3b1b89fa3654cfec5"},"headline":"South Georgia is bursting with life","datePublished":"2026-09-10T09:37:02+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/"},"wordCount":5321,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2080_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg","articleSection":["Encounter"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/","url":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/","name":"Wildlife of South Georgia: in the heart of an exceptional fauna | PONANT Magazine","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2080_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg","datePublished":"2026-09-10T09:37:02+00:00","description":"Explore the exceptional wildlife of South Georgia through the eyes of Petra Glardon, a naturalist guide specialising in the polar regions.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2080_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Low-Resolution-No-2080_CR28_B071122_Ushuaia_Ushuaia\u00a9StudioPONANT_MorganeLANCO.jpg","width":1000,"height":645,"caption":"A king penguin walking on a pebble beach in South Georgia, with a stretch of water and tall grass in the background"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wildlife-south-georgia\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"South Georgia is bursting with life"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#website","url":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/","name":"Magazine de voyage Escales : interviews, inspirations et conseils | Magazine PONANT","description":"Le magazine de voyage par PONANT","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#organization","name":"Ponant","url":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/logo-escales@2x.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/logo-escales@2x.png","width":510,"height":174,"caption":"Ponant"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ponant","https:\/\/x.com\/Cie_ponant","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/croisieres_ponant\/","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/ponantcruises\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/PonantCroisieres"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/#\/schema\/person\/c9d84b9102c6c2d3b1b89fa3654cfec5","name":"Sofia De\u202fS\u00e1\u202fPereira\u202f","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/207d2ec6fce3faa991c9f5642e762e0d4bb032b94c62c7ff2b26a313b844889c?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/207d2ec6fce3faa991c9f5642e762e0d4bb032b94c62c7ff2b26a313b844889c?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/207d2ec6fce3faa991c9f5642e762e0d4bb032b94c62c7ff2b26a313b844889c?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Sofia De\u202fS\u00e1\u202fPereira\u202f"},"description":"Journaliste de formation, polyglotte, et voyageuse depuis l'enfance, Sofia De\u202fS\u00e1\u202fPereira \u00e9crit aujourd\u2019hui pour des marques et m\u00e9dias dans l\u2019univers du voyage et du lifestyle. Immigr\u00e9e aux quatre coins du monde, en Chine, aux Bahamas, en Afrique du Sud ou en Australie, elle garde des souvenirs notables de chacune de ses exp\u00e9riences et continue d'explorer diff\u00e9rentes cultures avec curiosit\u00e9 et sinc\u00e9rit\u00e9.\u202f\u202f\u202f"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19146001","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/29"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19146001"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19146001\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19418043,"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19146001\/revisions\/19418043"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19146005"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19146001"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19146001"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19146001"},{"taxonomy":"thematique","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/thematique?post=19146001"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}