Wildest Antarctic

Millions of years of volcanic activity, isolation and powerful currents have shaped Antarctica, creating varied habitats for penguins, seals, seabirds and whales.

Every animal in Antarctica answers the call of the seasons. In the warmer months, elephant seals return to claim beaches, while emperor penguins brave the dark, sub-zero temperatures of winter.

Antarctica was once the centre of an ancient southern supercontinent, traces of which remain in plants and marine species that have adapted to the surrounding environment.

When it's time to haul ashore for breeding, mating and raising young, marine mammals return to island beaches - from the Antarctic Peninsula to isolated ocean outcrops.