Secretariat of the Antarctic Treaty
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  5. 37. Orne Islands

37. Orne Islands
37.Orne Islands
 
64º40´00´´S, 62º40´00´´W
Latest Revision: 2013
 
Key Features
 
- Outstanding views of Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel and Cuverville Island.
- Chinstrap and Gentoo penguin colonies
 
Description
TOPOGRAPHY
A group of small low-lying islands close to Rongé Island at the entrance to the Errera Channel. The largest of the Orne Islands is a moderately sloped low rocky dome rising to around 75 metres, with a rocky central ridge and permanent snow banks. The group includes three other small islets.
FAUNA
Confirmed breeders: Antarctic tern, chinstrap Penguin, Gentoo penguin, Kelp gull, Skua, Snowy sheathbill.
Regularly haul out: Fur seal.
Seen near-shore: Leopard seal, Weddell seal.
Seen off-shore: Humpback Whale.
FLORA
Moss species; bearded and crustose lichen species including Xanthoria spp., Buellia spp., Caloplaca spp. and Usnea spp. grow on rocky outcrops.
 
Visitor Impact
KNOWN IMPACTS
None.
POTENTIAL IMPACTS
Disturbance to wildlife and trampling of vegetation.
 
Landing Requirements
SHIPS*
Max pax on board: 500
Ships per day: 3
Comments: * A ship is defined as a vessel which carries more than 12 passengers.
VISITORS
Maximum number of visitors at any time, exclusive of expedition guides and leaders: 100
Visitors per guide: 20
 
Visitor Area
LANDING AREA
A low rock platform on the north-west side of the island approximately 250m from the northern end. The other islets are suitable for small boat cruising.
GUIDED WALKING AREA
None.
FREE ROAMING AREA
Visitors may roam freely.
 
 
Visitor code of conduct
BEHAVIOUR ASHORE
  • All visits are to be conducted in accordance with the General Guidelines for Visitors to the Antarctic.
  • Avoid trampling the small patches of moss and lichen which grow on the rocky outcrops.
  • Skuas nest in the rocky outcrops. Be alert to their presence, monitor their behaviour and increase your distance if needed.
CAUTIONARY NOTES
Hazardous rocks along the shoreline may be exposed, depending on the tide. Note that snow cliffs at the edge of the island are often corniced and unstable. They may not be readily apparent.
 
View of the island looking south west, with the preferred landing area at the rocky area on the right hand side
 
The island has several Chinstrap colonies on rocky outcrops View of small Chinstrap colonies towards the NE of the island
 
 
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