Sea Lion Island () is the largest of the Sea Lion Island Group of the Falkland Islands. It is in area. and as an Important Bird Area (BirdLife International 2006). In 2017 the island was designated as a National Nature Reserve.

Description

Sea Lion Island is long from east to west and wide, with cliffs at the south-western point and sandy bays to the east. Since then, ecotourism has been the only economic activity. In 1986 FIDC constructed the Sea Lion Lodge, with accommodation for 20 guests. It was prefabricated and flown in kit form to the island by Royal Air Force helicopters and has proved to be a success. It is used by tourists and, since 1996, scientific researchers.

Flora and fauna

Some 56 species of flowering plants have been recorded, including the Fuegian violet which, in the Falklands, is found nowhere else. , the Elephant Seal Research Group (ESRG) has been tracking the habits of elephant seals at Sea Lion Island.

Birds

thumb|Striated Caracara on Sealion Island|left

The Sea Lion Islands Group has been identified by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area. It is a significant breeding site for a variety of seabirds and other waterbirds including Falkland steamer ducks, ruddy-headed geese, gentoo penguins (2800 pairs), southern rockhopper penguins (480 pairs), Magellanic penguins, southern giant-petrels (25 pairs) and sooty shearwaters. It also supports populations of striated caracaras (10 pairs), blackish cinclodes, Cobb's wrens and white-bridled finches.

References

  • Stonehouse, B (ed.) Encyclopedia of Antarctica and the Southern Oceans (2002, )
  • Sealionisland.com
  • Falkland Islands, including Sea Lion island section
  • Pictures from Sea Lion Island
  • Long term study of Sea Lion Island elephant seals
  • Wildlife images from Sealion Island