Heard Island

King Penguins, Atlas Cove, Heard Island.

Heard and McDonald Islands are remote sub-Antarctic volcanic islands located in the southern Indian Ocean about half-way between Australia and South Africa, and just over 1,600 kilometres from Antarctica. The islands are a unique wilderness, containing outstanding examples of biological and physical processes continuing in an environment essentially undisturbed by humans. Heard Island is dominated by Big Ben, an active volcano rising to a height of 2,745 metres, and is largely covered by snow and glaciers. Penguins are by far the most abundant birds on Heard Island. Four species breed there, including king, gentoo, macaroni and rockhopper penguins.The population of king penguins is increasing, while there is preliminary evidence indicating decreases in the breeding populations of the other three species.

Unesco: Heard and McDonald Islands
Thanks a lot Helen!
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Date: April 17