27 Feb 2023

The Living Legacy of Campbell Island

After some days of sailing across the Ross Sea we were excited to spot the first signs of reaching our next destination as Heritage Adventurer neared the shores of Campbell Island.

Our adventurers departed bound for Northwest Bay with our guide and local legend Lindsay Wilson who was part of the island's famed rat eradication program in 2001, a herculean conservation effort to protect the island's native ecosystem and allow for many endemic species to repopulate the area.

Those taking the less active option started the day with a Zodiac cruise and observing 30 Hooker's/New Zealand Sea Lion pups at play in Tucker Cove and spotting a Campbell Island Teal.

After lunch we explored the island by following the boardwalk to the top of Col Lyall and observing many Southern Royal Albatross who were still with their chicks. This is the main population of these magnificent birds. Snipe were also seen as they weaved through the tussock as well as Campbell Island Teal, once thought to be extinct, were seen regularly throughout the day around the wharf.

What a fantastic day on the home straight of what has been the expedition of a lifetime.

Image (c) R. Young