Falkland Islands Wildlife
Fur Seals Though exploited by sealers up to the 19th Century, Fur Seals are now protected and the Falklands boasts numbers of over 20,000 around its shores. The Falkland Islands are a chosen breeding ground with Fur Seals preferring elevated sites with shelving rocks and some shade. Male Fur Seals grow to around 6.5 feet and way up to 700lbs (160 kg).
One can also spot South American Sea Lions, Elephant Seals, Whales and Dophins on and around the Islands.
Penguins
Eleven species of Penguin have been recorded on the islands, of these 5 or 6 choose to breed on the islands. King Penguins reach up to 30 inches in height and are the largest and brightest in colour of all the penguin breeds. Their breeding cycle can last up to 14 months. Other breeds found on the islands are the Gentoo Penguin, Magellanic and Rockhoppers who are the smallest breed reaching 14 inches in height.
Travel map of the Falkland Islands including Stanley Town Plan
Featuring:
- Illustrated biographies of explorers and other notable people
- Historical time line
- Colour Photos and text on the wildlife
- Details of many visitor sites
- General information about the islands
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Birds
The Falkland Islands are a popular haunt for Seabirds, birds of prey and even the odd Chilean Swallow. Seabirds including the black browed Albatross choose the islands as a breeding ground with many breeds nesting on the islands to the west, whilst other breeds such as sooty shearwaters prefer the Tussock rich Kidney Island.
Perching Birds
Because the Falklands are a long way from South America, very few small perching Birds or Passerines manage to visit the Islands. Strong Fliers like the Barn and Chiliean Swallows make the journey, but most others have become resident species, including the Tussock, Tyrant, Thrush and Pipit, as well as the long tailed meadow llark which has a handsome vermillion throat and breast.
Flowers
Many beautiful flowering plants inhabit the Falkland Islands and Orchids represent some of the prettiest, including the Dog Orchid which blooms on oceanic heath in November and December. You can also find Falkland Lavender which bristles with lilac, white or pale blue flowers in mid summer. Among the plants to be introduced to the Falklands is the Lupin, which can be seen blossoming in almost every Garden in Stanley.
