Antarctica is a beautiful place and home to some amazing wildlife. Our visits have been in the Antarctic Summer when the weather is at it’s best, although Drakes Passage, from the South American mainland to Antarctica is always a challenge, making photography quite difficult at times, trying to keep a steady hand while the ship negotiates high seas.
Enjoy this selection of some of the wildlife we saw. Click on any photo for a larger view.

Gentoo Penguin with chicks PB
copyright © Judith Helsby 2026

Grey Headed Albatross
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Cape Petrel
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Weddell Seal
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Gentoo Penguin
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Orca family.
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Gentoo Penguin Wilhelmina Bay
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Weddell Seal
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Antarctic Tern
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Chinstrap Penguin
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Chinstrap Penguin Half Moon Island
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Cape Petrels
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Antarctic Skua
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Adelie Penguin
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Adelie Penguins
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Light Mantled Albatross
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Black Browed Albatross Drakes Passage
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Grey Headed Albatross
copyright © Judith Helsby 2026

Slender Billed Prion
copyright © Judith Helsby 2026

Giant Petrel Drakes Passage
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Kelp Gull Punta Arenas
copyright © Judith Helsby 2026
Gripping stuff Judi. Nearest I have been to birds like that this year has been Bempton cliffs RSPB reserve ๐