Light-mantled Albatross

We officially entered South Georgia today with a stop at Grytviken, the administrative centre of the island. We were welcomed by HM Harbourmaster and HM Immigration Officer, who stamped our passports. Sarah from the South Georgia Heritage Trust also gave us a talk about the island's ambitious rat eradication programme.

It made a pleasant change to see some of the human history of the island, and to understand the impact whaling had on the South Atlantic ecosystem.

We also had time to go on a hike to some cliff tops where we observed some breeding Light-mantled Albatrosses. We saw them perform their courtship gliding display in pairs and one landed on the cliff top just meters away from me. I was able to take a few shots whilst taking care not to go over, before it lifted off again. This is one of my favourite images from South Georgia and it made it as a finalist into the end-of-trip photo competition.

I like the subtlety and detailing of its smoky grey plumage, a beautiful and striking bird.