Emperor penguins migrate annually from the West coast of Antarctica to their breeding grounds. This journey has a distance of 60-100 miles and the main reason is for breeding. However, recently some Emperor penguins are migrating because of climate change and limited amounts of food. The migration takes place during the month of March. Around 595,000 Emperor Penguins migrate every year. They do this in such large numbers so they stay safe when predators such as seals, target their species. They also do this to stay warm. This is done by sharing body heat using the “wave.”
Penguins need to migrate to find new breeding lands. They do this by following a genetic path which leads them on the journey which their ancestors have been travelling through for hundreds of years. If these natural paths are destroyed by the acts of human destruction, then the penguins will not be able to complete the journey like they usually would it will be much more difficult for them.
Global Warming causes the habitats and population of Emperor penguins are mainly damaged because of oil spills, pesticides, construction, overfishing, guano mining, and coastal development. Penguins rely largely on the floating ice on the shores of the coast to nest and feed themselves and their young. Males need smooth and large surfaces of ice to shuffle in a cluster whilst balancing their eggs. Not only this, but humans commit acts of illegal stealing of eggs. These human interferences destroy their natural diets as the warmer waters result in dwindling of fish and krill.
A Plight Of Suited Figures
The sights and sounds you will hear while experiencing the emperor penguin migration is unexpected yet fascinating. First you hear the echoing shuffles and excessive squawks. A marching band, a harmony of calls and shuffles using their bodies and voices. Finally the plight of suited figures emerge from the rugged, icy hills, an amazing sight like no other. They continue marching across their wintery homes, an almost endless journey, following their instinctive path. The migration of the emperor penguin is known for it's sheer beauty and amazing sights that will surely make your experience magical.
What Are We Doing?
The emperor penguin's numbers are depleting due to many interferences caused by humans. For these many reasons, listed above, emperor penguins are nearing endangerment. Unlike many other overnight tours, our tours are completely eco friendly and sustainable. We strive to protect all of the species we support and regain their numbers. We try not to disturb the migration of the animals and every dollar donated goes towards protecting these animals from whatever is the main cause of their endangerment or threatened status.