Sea Lion Island is one of the smallest and most southerly inhabited islands in the Falklands archipelago (just 5 miles, 8 kilometres long and just over 1 mile, 1.5 km at its widest point), but it is still a prime destination, with the sheer abundance of wildlife in such a small area, making it a must on any Falklands itinerary. There are over 47 species of birds to be found including three species of breeding penguins. Rockhopper penguins congregate at Rockhopper Point where you can also find the king cormorants. Gentoo penguins are most common in the sandy areas close to the Lodge and the Magellanic penguin burrows can be found all around the island.
However, perhaps by far the biggest attraction on Sea Lion Island is the large number of southern elephant seals that breed here, principally on the white sandy beaches. Sea Lion Island is the most important breeding location in the Falklands for southern elephant seals and every spring over 500 females arrive here to give birth. Also not to be missed, are the southern sea lions further around the coast on the narrow rocky beaches. Pods of killer whales are often seen circling close inshore (attracted by the prospect of hunting seals).
Sea Lion Island’s ponds are ideal for observing waterfowl, whilst southern giant petrels and skuas patrol the skies. Striated caracaras, known locally as Johnny rooks, are commonly seen here. This cheeky and fearless bird will patiently wait to take any item of interest from your backpack if not closely guarded. The island is free from introduced predators such as cats, rats or mice providing a sanctuary to the many ground nesting birds. Smaller bird species nesting on the island includes tussac-bird, white-bridled finch, Falkland thrush, Magellanic snipe, along with the endemic Cobb’s wren.
Sea Lion Island is a haven for birdwatchers and photographers. Award-winning, world-renowned photographers have adorned books and magazines with their prize-winning shots of the wildlife on Sea Lion Island, but even with the most basic equipment you can take away many shots to treasure.
On a more sombre note, Sea Lion Island is the site of the memorial to HMS Sheffield which was sunk by Argentine forces in 1982. Just above Rockhopper Point this monument has been erected in honour of the 20 Royal Navy crew killed when HMS Sheffield was hit by a missile 38 miles (60 km) southeast of this point on 4 May 1982. The island is also home to the grave of one of the three civilians killed during the Conflict.
Setting off west from the Lodge there are marked tracks that take you around the tall tussock grasses that flank the cliff tops. You are not permitted to climb down the cliffs, but you will have good views down to the rocky platforms where the sea lions gather in the breeding season (Dec-Feb). Past Long Pond, the track takes you past small ponds where you can find variety of ducks including speckled teal and Chiloe wigeon, you will continue onto Rockhopper Point and the HMS Sheffield Monument. From here you can return to the Lodge through the centre of the island over easy terrain, distance approx. 3 miles (5 km). Alternatively, you can continue the walk along the western most point of the island to Beaver Pond before returning to the Lodge.
East of the Lodge you will encounter the gentoo penguin colonies and numerous Magellanic penguins. There is a circular walking trail that takes you along the north and south beaches where the southern elephant seals are found. When on South Beach keep an eye out for killer whales patrolling and a marked trail will take you further around to the “orca pool” where they have learnt to hunt elephant seals in the tidal pools.
On arrival you can book an optional tour to familiarize yourself with the island. Once you are acquainted with all the locations of interest you are free to organise your day as you wish and to explore the island on foot. Sea Lion Island has gentle rolling terrain and much of the wildlife is close to the Lodge. The easy walking terrain makes it a great destination for families or for those less agile.
