Punta Arenas/Magdalena Island/Magellanic Penguins

Blurred in the background of the first image is Faro Magdalena, or Lighthouse of Magdalena. Built in 1856, this historic lighthouse is a symbol of maritime safety and navigation in the waters surrounding the island. In the foreground is a Magellanic Penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus), a species of flightless penguin native to South America. They breed in large colonies on the coasts of Argentina and Chile, and on Magdalena Island, off the coast of Chile, which is where all of these images were shot. These medium-sized penguins have two black bands across their chest and white spots on their head and face. Magellanic Penguins feed mainly on small fish, squid, krill, and other crustaceans that they hunt in the waters around their breeding grounds. They are an important species for ecotourism in South America due to their large numbers and accessibility.

Magdalena Island is also home to a variety of cormorant species, making it a unique and special place for birdwatchers. The most common species of cormorant found on the island are the Rock Cormorant, Red-legged Cormorant, and Double-crested Cormorant. These species are all native to the area, and can be seen in large numbers throughout the year. I captured a large number of cormorants perched on the cliffs of island.