Pebble Island

Pebble Island, at 19 miles (31 kms) long, is the third largest offshore island. The landscape varies greatly from large ponds and moorland, to long sandy beaches and rocky cliffs. All of these provide vital breeding habitats for a wide-range of birds, including some rare and elusive species.

The ponds on the eastern part of the island, some of which are within walking distance of the lodge, are home to Chiloe wigeon, grebes, Black-necked swans, Yellow-Billed Pintail, Silver Teal and a multitude of other wildfowl and wading birds. Many thousands of Gentoo, Rockhopper and Magellanic penguins breed on Pebble Island each summer, spearheading the incredible list of some 42 resident bird species. If you are lucky you will see the one resident Leucistic rockhopper penguin and also you may have the chance to see the few resident Macaroni penguins. In addition, each year, the island seems to act as a magnet for many rare avian visitors from mainland South America and beyond. Pebble was proud to announce a record sighting of seven different species of penguin throughout the 2004/05 season. Marine mammal enthusiasts can look out for Southern sea lions hauled out along the coast. Frequently Commerson’s and more occasionally Peale’s Dolphins can be spotted surfing in the bright blue waters off the beaches or fishing amongst the kelp beds. Later in the season whales migrate past the Falklands and can been occasionally seen from the cliffs.