Thanks to Coca-Cola commercials and cartoons, we are led to believe that polar bears and penguins coexist in harmony on both of the world's icy poles. As cute as it may seem, that image of polar wildlife is false. Learning this truth begs the question: which animals live where? This basic guide to wildlife in polar regions will help clarify the myths, misunderstandings, and general confusion.
Walrus colony on Wrangel Island
The Arctic:
During an Arctic tour, travelers can enjoy the celebrated landscapes of Greenland, Iceland, Canada, Norway, Finland, Russia, and the Scottish Isles. An Arctic trip might also journey to the distant and remote North Pole, Svalbard, or Norway's volcanic Jan Mayen island. Experience this magical region of icy fjords, jagged mountains, immense glaciers, and dramatic ice floes. Visitors learn history while walking in the footsteps of the Vikings or marvel at the intense natural beauty and unique cultures that have survived in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
Arctic wolves
Arctic wildlife is as varied and unique as the locations, landscapes, and possible experiences. Native animals include the polar bear, narwhal, beluga, caribou, walrus, and wolf.
The elusive narwhal in the Arctic
The elusive narwhal and mystical reindeer seem imaginary due to influences such as the movie "Elf" and age-old Christmas tales. In the Arctic, they are as real as the frozen land, and seeing them is a dream come true for wildlife enthusiasts.
Herd of Arctic reindeer
The Arctic is also inhabited by these characters...puffins. Not to be confused with penguins. It might be disappointing, but there are NO PENGUINS in the Arctic. Sorry Coca-Cola.
Arctic puffins
Antarctica:
An expedition to Antarctica provides travelers with a type of excitement often only associated with early explorers. The Great White Continent is so untouched that stepping foot on shore still feels like a first discovery. Travelers experience Antarctica's amazing scenery, a wilderness of snow, ice, mountains and waterways, and an incredibly wide variety of wildlife.
Weddell seal taking a rest
Whether travelers are whale watchers, birders, or just have a general interest in wildlife, Antarctica will not disappoint. Against the unspoiled, icy backdrop, these majestic animals make their dramatic appearances.
Antarctic Shag
Antarctica is home to multiple varieties of penguins. It may be surprising to many, but there are distinct differences making each type unique. Here are descriptions for just a few of these tuxedo-wearing birds.
The penguins of Antarctica
King Penguin: This species is the second largest of the penguins, only after Emperor Penguins. They can grow over 3 feet tall and weigh up to 35 pounds! As can be seen in this photo, the chicks look strikingly different than mature King Penguins. Fact of interest: On foraging trips these penguins repeatedly dive under water to over 330 feet and have been recorded at depths greater than 980 feet.
Chinstrap penguin in Antarctica
Chinstrap penguin: This species' name derives from the narrow black band under their heads which makes it appear as if they are wearing black helmets. This makes chinstraps one of the most easily identified types of penguin. The black-and-white plumage helps provide camouflage in the water from predators such as seals. From above, the black back blends into the dark water below while the underside blends into the sunshine above the water. Fact of interest: They are considered the most aggressive species of the penguin.
Royal penguin in Antarctica
Royal penguin: This embellished species can be found on the sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island and adjacent islands. These crested penguins feed on krill, fish, and sometimes squid, just like the other species. Fact of interest: When a royal penguin egg is laid, it is kept warm by both parents for 35 days by rotating 12-day shifts. After hatching, the male watches the chick, and the female brings food for them both.
Gentoo penguins everywhere
Gentoo penguin: Gentoos are characterized by the white stripe on the top of the head, bright orange bill, and the longest tail of all penguin species. Like all penguin species, predators of the gentoos are sea lions, seals, orcas, and seabirds. Fact of interest: They are the fastest underwater swimming penguins and can reach speeds of 22 miles per hour.
Adventure Life couldn’t have provided a better travel experience, from the start of planning through the entire tip itself. The agents were very helpful and quickly responsive to our questions and needs. We were well taken care of and the trip was smooth sailing, both literally and figuratively. The cruise line, the hotel, and the extra excursions that Adventure Life provided were superb and without flawsThe price was reasonable when we compared the planned trip to what was offered by others. We would highly recommend both Adventure Life and Emerald Cruise Line to anyone interested in an enjoyable, relaxing, and informative travel experience.
Julie Mabel
1 day ago
I have travelled with Adventure Life previously and certainly eager to do it again. Kassandra made excellent and honest suggestions while taking the time to understand what was important to us.
Susan
2 days ago
They answered every question and concern that I had and put me at ease. Very excited for this once in a life-time trip.
Customer Tim
3 days ago
I am a returning client to Adventure Life and am very pleased with their commitment to put together a great trip. Clara replied and clarified to any and all questions we had.
Claire Palmer
5 days ago
Jessica was very responsive to my questions and never balked when I asked her to go back and find more options. She really worked hard to find the right cruise for us.
