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  • Photo du rédacteurSophia Laporte

Swimming with Seals

When the sea is calm, I take seawater samples for the analysis of marine micro-plastics in the ocean in front of the base. I take two 1 liter samples of seawater 30m from the hold. This manipulation requires the presence of the doctor, the district chief, and three nice people who are willing to watch the seals on the hold and pass me the bottles while I am in the water. Here is the great team of scarers / rescuers that I can always count on!



When conditions allow it, once the job is done everyone can jump in; an opportunity for everyone to swim with the seals, especially pups by the hundreds!



The pups are so curious and playful!



There are also adult seals in the water (but much less than pups at the moment).



The elephant seals keep us company on the hold. We have also seen them a few times in the water with us (impressive!).



Giant Petrels landed on the water just near us.



Attempts at underwater group photos ...





These swims are rare, and very much appreciated! :)



Around 3 p.m., we begin to see the early evening light. The hold and its surroundings remain teeming with small pups, either sleeping or growling at each other.



Winter has settled in quietly, the air is cooler and the wind is stronger. The days go by at high speed and life on the base remains very pleasant. The next winter months will be punctuated by various events coordinated with other subantarctic and antarctic bases. There are now very few boat passages around the island. We are alone in the middle of this infinite ocean ... and it is cool!



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