South Shetland Islands
A Diverse Geography Sculpted by Nature
The South Shetland Islands are a remote archipelago located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) north of the Antarctic Peninsula. These islands, although often overshadowed by their Antarctic neighbor, have a geography that is both rugged and diverse, shaped by glaciers, volcanic activity, and the harsh Southern Ocean. Spread over roughly 3,687 square kilometers (1,423 square miles), the islands are home to a range of ecosystems, making them a fascinating part of the Antarctic region. One of the defining features of the South Shetland Islands is their volcanic origins. The islands were formed by volcanic activity, and some of the islands are still active today. The most well-known is Deception Island, which has a large, flooded caldera that forms a natural harbor.
Area of South Shetland Islands
- 3,687 km²
Population of South Shetland Islands
- There are no residents on the South Shetland islands. Although there are a couple research stations that are manned depending on the season.
Why Travel to the South Shetland Islands?
Rugged, windswept, and teeming with life, the South Shetland Islands are the dramatic northern gateway to Antarctica.
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Map of the South Shetland Islands
A Geography Shaped by Ice
Glaciers play a significant role in shaping the South Shetland Islands’ geography. The islands are covered in glaciers and ice sheets, particularly on the larger islands like King George Island and Livingston Island. These glaciers slowly move toward the coast, where they break off into icebergs, contributing to the ever-changing landscape. The coastlines of the South Shetland Islands are rugged and varied, ranging from steep cliffs to sheltered bays and deep fjords. Islands like Livingston and Elephant Island are known for their steep, ice-covered cliffs that plunge into the Southern Ocean. The islands are also dotted with fjords, narrow inlets of sea between cliffs, formed by the movement of glaciers.
Rugged, Volcanic, and Teeming with Wildlife
The rugged South Shetland Islands offer unique habitats for a variety of wildlife. Three species of penguins dominate the landscape: Chinstrap, Gentoo, and Adélie Penguins. Chinstrap Penguins, with their distinctive black line under the chin, are particularly abundant, especially on Deception Island, where they nest in massive colonies along the rocky slopes. Gentoo Penguins are another common sight, easily recognizable by their bright orange beaks and curious nature; and Adélie Penguins, and their striking black-and-white appearance, are also a key part of the ecosystem.
Whale sightings are common, particularly around King George Island, with Humpbacks, Minkes, Orcas and fin whales all known to appear. Yet another major attraction of the South Shetland Islands’ wildlife are the seals. Weddell seals and Crabeater seals are frequently seen resting on ice floes or along the beaches. And Leopard seals roam the waters, preying on penguins and smaller seals.
The skies above the South Shetland Islands are filled with seabirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Sooty shearwaters, Cape petrels, and southern fulmars are common sightings, skimming the waves in search for fish and squid. The islands are also home to the Antarctic skua, known for stealing penguin eggs and chicks or scavenging carrion.
Perhaps the most striking bird you’ll see is the southern giant petrel, which can often be seen flying around the islands with its massive wingspan.
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A Mild Climate – for Antarctica
Despite their proximity to the Antarctic, the South Shetland Islands have a relatively mild Antarctic climate due to their location just north of the Antarctic Peninsula. Summers can see temperatures hover around 1°C (34°F), while winters are much colder, often dipping below -10°C (14°F). The islands are frequently buffeted by strong winds and experience high levels of precipitation, mostly in the form of snow.
| AVERAGE HIGH | AVERAGE LOW | PRECIPITATION | |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 36°F (2°C) | 28°F (-2°C) | 1.97 in (50 mm) |
| February | 36°F (2°C) | 27°F (-3°C) | 1.77 in (45 mm) |
| March | 34°F (1°C) | 25°F (-4°C) | 2.17 in (55 mm) |
| April | 32°F (0°C) | 19°F (-7°C) | 2.36 in (60 mm) |
| May | 28°F (-2°C) | 16°F (-9°C) | 2.76 in (70 mm) |
| June | 27°F (-3°C) | 14°F (-10°C) | 2.95 in (75 mm) |
| July | 25°F (-4°C) | 10°F (-12°C) | 3.15 in (80 mm) |
| August | 25°F (-4°C) | 12°F (-11°C) | 2.95 in (75 mm) |
| September | 27°F (-3°C) | 14°F (-10°C) | 2.76 in (70 mm) |
| October | 30°F (-1°C) | 19°F (-7°C) | 2.56 in (65 mm) |
| November | 32°F (0°C) | 23°F (-5°C) | 2.36 in (60 mm) |
| December | 34°F (1°C) | 27°F (-3°C) | 2.17 in (55 mm) |
Popular Expeditions That Include the South Shetland Islands
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