Curious Penguins

During a 10-day adventure in Antarctica in late 2014/early 2015, our first onshore activity featured a visit to a penguin rookery. The penguins had built nests of small rocks and pebbles, and the females were sitting on their eggs. There were only several chicks visible, as hatching was slower than usual that season. We all were dressed in layers of clothing, anticipating a chilly experience (the temperature was 29ºF), but because there was no wind and the sun was bright, reflecting off the snow, in short order we began to shed our heavy parkas. Some got down to T-shirts… in Antarctica?! The penguins were very cute and unafraid. We could not approach any animal closer than 15 feet, but the animals had no rules and a number of curious penguins came right up to us, pecking at our boots. All in all, it was a great experience. — MARVIN SILVERMAN, Carmel, CA