Penguin Watch is the brainchild of Dr. Tom Hart, a penguinologist from the University of Oxford. The organization is focused on researching penguin populations, which are declining because of the impact of climate change, active fisheries, and pollution around Antarctica. 

Due to the harsh conditions and remoteness of Antarctica, permanent scientific bases or extended summer camps were usually required to collect this data, which presented both a logistical and financial barrier. However, the team at Penguin Watch is pioneering the use of remote-sensing cameras to allow scientists and students back in Oxford, UK to collect data. The cameras record the number of penguins arriving on land to breed, when breeding occurs, and chick survival. Alongside this, the cameras can help track and monitor penguin behavior, such as time spent at sea foraging for food and how this can vary from year to year.

The research and data are used to help inform government policy and educate the public on the impact of climate change. In 2018, the Government of South Georgia Island and the South Sandwich Islands used Penguin Watch data to add additional protections to the Marine Protected Area in place around the islands. As the success of Penguin Watch continues to grow, subsequent projects Seabird Watch and Seal Watch have been launched.

As part of our scientific partner and collaborations program, Dr Hart’s team joined the crew on board MS Fram to conduct maintenance to cameras situated at several locations around Antarctica including Damoy Point, Danco Island, and Orne Harbour. Ongoing maintenance of these cameras is vital given the harsh weather conditions that can occur across the frozen continent all year round.

However, the team was fortunate to experience favourable weather conditions, making it possible for the team to undertake drone surveys at several spots collecting even more valuable data.