Antarctica : A Guide to the Wildlife

An essential guide to the wildlife of Antarctica, updated throughout to reflect the latest changes in this remarkable polar environment.

Antarctica is home to the world's largest concentration of wildlife in the coldest, windiest and driest place on earth. Cruise the Southern Ocean for a wandering albatross, land on continental beaches to sit with thousands of penguins, keep a sharp eye open for humpback whales against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains soaring upwards from the sea, marvel at orcas harrying Weddell seals off ice floes, or witness a leopard seal in dramatic pursuit. Visiting Antarctica means being in your very own natural-history documentary, where extreme conditions give way to thriving wildlife and superb scenery.

This readable introduction brings to life the history of exploration and exploitation in this vast polar desert, where two-thirds of the world's fresh water is locked up as ice. Featuring chapters on the region's famous whales and penguins alongside lesser-known species like skuas and sheathbills, each species account blends extensive natural history insights with identification tips and stunning commissioned artwork. Although focusing primarily on the Antarctic Peninsula, an appendix covers South Georgia's wildlife for those extending their itinerary.

This eighth edition has been thoroughly updated to reflect evolving population dynamics and profound changes in ice-shelf extent, which have opened new opportunities for expedition vessels to visit emperor penguin colonies. Written by renowned expedition leader and natural-history broadcaster Tony Soper and illustrated by Dafila Scott, this is an informative and entertaining guidebook ideal for those planning a trip to the world's highest continent—and the perfect companion to keep close at hand when you get there.