Shag Rocks in the S. Atlantic
Anticipation seemed to be the word of the day here on board the Endeavour as we continue on our eastward course to South Georgia. Anticipation of the challenges that lie in Shackleton’s footsteps for our trekkers. Anticipation of the beauty found in the snow capped peaks and glacial valleys that make South Georgia a photographer’s dream. Anticipation of the exhilaration that comes from being surrounded by the island’s prolific wildlife. And of course, anticipation of simply feeling solid ground beneath our feet again. Though we have enjoyed our days at sea since we left Argentina, many of us are ready for land once more.
These feelings of eagerness and excitement were heightened even more when we spotted land for the first time since leaving South America in our wake three days ago. The white-capped rocks pictured above may not seem like much, but they were certainly a welcome sign that we were indeed nearing our destination. Shag Rocks, as they are known, are four small pinnacles that offer a brief glimpse of the mostly submerged Scotia Arc before we reach the much grander peaks of South Georgia. Positioned just 115 miles west-northwest of the main island, the rocks are so named for the nesting groups of shags that are often spotted by mariners on passing ships. Incidentally, it is this sea bird, or rather the guano thereof, that is responsible for the whitewashed surface of the rocks. As our resident sea-birder extraordinaire, Richard White, explained during or evening recap, these shags are known for being coastal birds rarely straying more than 15 miles from land and so are a welcome sight to sailors eager for landfall. Even Shackleton took note of these animals when he and his men spotted one as they sailed towards South Georgia from Elephant Island, and rejoiced for he then knew their perilous journey was at last nearing an end.
Anticipation seemed to be the word of the day here on board the Endeavour as we continue on our eastward course to South Georgia. Anticipation of the challenges that lie in Shackleton’s footsteps for our trekkers. Anticipation of the beauty found in the snow capped peaks and glacial valleys that make South Georgia a photographer’s dream. Anticipation of the exhilaration that comes from being surrounded by the island’s prolific wildlife. And of course, anticipation of simply feeling solid ground beneath our feet again. Though we have enjoyed our days at sea since we left Argentina, many of us are ready for land once more.
These feelings of eagerness and excitement were heightened even more when we spotted land for the first time since leaving South America in our wake three days ago. The white-capped rocks pictured above may not seem like much, but they were certainly a welcome sign that we were indeed nearing our destination. Shag Rocks, as they are known, are four small pinnacles that offer a brief glimpse of the mostly submerged Scotia Arc before we reach the much grander peaks of South Georgia. Positioned just 115 miles west-northwest of the main island, the rocks are so named for the nesting groups of shags that are often spotted by mariners on passing ships. Incidentally, it is this sea bird, or rather the guano thereof, that is responsible for the whitewashed surface of the rocks. As our resident sea-birder extraordinaire, Richard White, explained during or evening recap, these shags are known for being coastal birds rarely straying more than 15 miles from land and so are a welcome sight to sailors eager for landfall. Even Shackleton took note of these animals when he and his men spotted one as they sailed towards South Georgia from Elephant Island, and rejoiced for he then knew their perilous journey was at last nearing an end.
