Antarctica

Map of Antarctica

Antarctica

Map of Antarctica

Antarctica is found at the southern most tip of the Earth. It is the coldest and windiest place on the Earth. Antarctica is the fifth largest continent in the world, larger than Europe and Australia . It is 14 million square kilometres. Antarctica has no permanent human population. This frozen land is home to many animals from penguins to seals. These animals adapt to their cold environment. Antarctica is a unique and spectacular place of great beauty. Yet, this special habitat is in danger.

Penguins

Penguins in Whipsnade Zoo

Penguins

Penguins in Whipsnade Zoo

Enlarge image

Many of the rare animals of Antarctica were hunted almost to extinction in the past. There are increasing numbers of tourists visiting Antarctica. This can lead to pollution of this unique land. Antarctica is rich in natural resources. It is feared that mining may begin in the future in Antarctica as the other natural resources on our planet are running out. It is important that Antarctica is protected for future generations.

Climate change is also melting the Antarctic ice. Scientists are worried that the collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet may result in changes to ocean currents which could have untold consequences for people all over the world.

Back to Antarctica