8 Head Scratching Myths and Misconceptions About Antartica
Antarctica has sparked its fair share of wild rumors. Some of which amusing, some unfortunate, and others so far from reality that it's hard to understand how anyone could believe them. After all, when you're a remote continent at the southernmost point of the Earth, it's easy for speculation to spiral out of control. Let's explore these misconceptions together and try to shed some light on the matter.
1. Penguins are the only birds in Antarctica
Penguins aren't the only birds in Antarctica. The region is home to many bird species, including several albatross, petrel, shearwater, prion, and shag varieties. While the eight penguin species in the area are the most recognizable, there are actually 33 major bird species in the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic.
2. Antarctica is only for scientists
Every year, tens of thousands of polar tourists visit Antarctica, with the number steadily increasing since 2011 due to the growing popularity of wildlife-focused expedition travel. The only aspect of this Antarctic myth that holds any truth pertains to the scientists who work on long-term contracts at various research stations. These Antarctic bases, including McMurdo and Cámara, typically accommodate scientists conducting studies in fields like glaciology, climatology, and biology.
3. It’s too cold to travel in Antarctica
Although Antarctica is cold, it’s not so extreme that it prevents travelers from exploring the region, as evidenced by the tens of thousands who visit each year. The continent is colder than the Arctic, with average temperatures ranging from -15°C (5°F) to 2°C (36°F) during the Southern Hemisphere summer. Some areas also experience katabatic winds, which are cold and dense air masses that flow downhill from higher elevations. These colder temperatures, combined with stronger winds, can make some days in Antarctica unusually chilly. However, as long as you dress appropriately and embrace the adventure, you’ll be just fine.
4. Antarctica is nothing but snow and ice
This is a common misconception about Antarctica. While it’s true that the continent is covered in snow and ice, that’s just one part of the story. Beyond the massive glaciers, stunning icebergs, and endless snowy landscapes, there’s much more to see. Rich diversity of wildlife, snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear blue bays, and striking polar coastlines.
5. You can’t set foot on the Antarctic Continent
This is yet another unfortunate misconception about Antarctica, especially since it's far from the truth. For those seeking thrilling land (and sea) activities, there are voyages that provide a fantastic opportunity to experience all that the region has to offer. In fact, shore-based activities in Antarctica are quite extensive, thanks to the absence of polar bears, which is something that’s definitely not the case in much of the Arctic.
6. Polar bears go to eat penguins in Antarctica
As you might have already guessed, polar bears are not found in Antarctica. While most of you probably know this, many travelers new to the polar regions may still be confused about which species inhabit each area. Penguins in Antarctica can fall prey to orcas, leopard seals, and seabirds like the South Polar skuas, but you’re highly unlikely to see a polar bear hunting one.
7. Antarctica is absolutely enormous
This myth about Antarctica has some truth to it, mainly because the continent is indeed vast. However, the reason we’re mentioning it here is that Antarctica often appears much larger on most maps than it actually is. Covering roughly 14 million square kilometers (5.4 million square miles), it’s about the size of the United States and Mexico combined. The reason why it is thought to be so big is because of the way it is depicted in maps.
8. No one lives in Antarctica full-time
As we mentioned earlier, scientists living at Antarctic research stations often spend extended periods there, including overwintering on year-long or multi-year contracts. While tourism in Antarctica halts during the winter to avoid the harsh weather and allow the environment to rest, research doesn’t stop. Scientists continue their studies on animals, ice cores, and weather patterns while the rest of us stay warm closer to the equator.
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