Report of visual observations on penguins, seals and other seabirds near Syowa Station, Antarctica, by the JARE-26 in 1985

Abstract

Visual observations on Weddell seals, Adelie penguins and other seabirds near Syowa Station were carried out by the 26th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition members, as part of environmental monitoring program. From March 18 to 25,many Adelie penguins (300-500) were observed. They were on their way to the north and in the course of molting. On September 29,the foot marks were recognized and the first Adelie penguin was observed on October 21. Laid eggs were found on November 16. The first hatching occurred on December 23. Maximum number of 7 rookeries was 2143 of parents. Weddell seals were rarely seen from April to September. On March 25,3 large groups comprising about 100 individuals were seen near Tottuki Point. From the end of September, many groups of one or more individuals were often seen on the sea ice. The first pup was found on October 10 near Ongulkalven Island. From the end of October to November, many newly born pups were seen at Rumpa Island. The largest group consisted of 34 mothers and 26 children. Many Emperor penguins (40-50 individuals) were seen on the sea ice from the end of March to April. No individual was seen in winter and ten Emperor penguins were again seen around the Station on October 23. The South Polar skuas disappeared in the middle of May and they appeared again on October 20. Maximum number was 23 individuals. Snow petrel, Cape pigeon and Wilson's strom-petrel were also observed.