Sea Lion Keeping a Beat

We may want to take a boom box to in Antarctica and dance with the Weddell Seals!

No More Dogs in Antarctica

I'm preparing to speak to Gibbs Elementary first graders this morning.  I've been thinking about the Antarctic Treaty and it's importance on the world's stage.  I didn't realize that since 1993,  the Antartic Treaty bans dogs.
According to USA Today, "This action was taken because of evidence that the canine disease distemper was spreading to Antarctica’s seals."  There may be other reasons not stated, but expeditions with dogs are a thing of the past.  George W Gibbs, Jr., spoke fondly of the dogs and the dog drivers on his trip.  They were essential to pull gear and help f ind crevasses for the ice party.  We chose the picture ( at the top of this blog) of my father with dogs for this reason.

Cold as Ice

I found this documentary,- Cold as Ice about 3 kayakers who paddled 700 miles down the coast of the peninsula.  It captures the beauty and adventure very well.  It makes me think of the USS Bear and how dangerous and exciting it was to be in the area.  I also laughed about their contact with seals because they walked right by them and put up their tent!  Makes me understand my desire to make contact.

Seal and Bird Encounter

Didn't catch the name of this seal. 
You may have read my earlier post about (almost bumping into) seals.  Upon reflection, I realize desire to feel and touch everything I could about Antarctica. On some level, I wanted to (literally) bump into the animals.  Some of them will bite.  In the end, stayed safe! 

Received note from a friend today.  It's a female southern elephant seal.  Thanks Gail!

Antarctic Seals

It's hard to see the seals in some of these pictures. While taking pictures and being in awe of the environment, I almost walked into the camouflaged seals!  Of course these pics are closeups. With great guides on this trek,

they helped me look up at just the right time.  No doubt, Antarctica is wilderness!!.

From National Archives:Weddell seals, Melchoir Islands.  My father was here. Doesn't look much different.