CHILE ~ Isla Marta - Punta Arenas ~

... Beautiful views of a remote island situated off the coast of Punta Arenas in the picturesque Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica region... visitors are treated to breathtaking views of rugged coastlines, lush landscapes, and diverse wildlife... primarily known for its rich marine life,  including a variety of seabirds and for its large colony of Southern sea lions, estimated to number 1,500 individuals... they can often be spotted basking on the rocky shores.... visitors can observe them  with small boats slowly near the beach... many will come to encounter the new-comers as seals are very curious... you are not allowed to go ashore on Isla Marta  in order to protect the natural environment ...  this island is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers... Thanks a lot Monica!ヽ(•‿•)ノ

Isla Marta is located northeast of Punta Arenas in the South of Chile. It is about 12 hectares and part of the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument, established in 1982, which includes the larger Magdalena Island.

While many names for the islands have been used during early exploration by Spanish ships and pirates, their current names, Marta and Magdalena were given by a 16th-century Spanish explorer, Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa. Little history of the island from the time of Spanish colonialism to the present day has been recorded.

The Southern sea lion is a member of the Otariidae family, which is the family of eared seals. This family is distinguished by having visible external ear flaps, unlike "true" seals. Their diet primarily consists of fish, crustaceans, and squid.

Photo: 2006 Daniel Bruhin W.

Stamps:

Dessert Flowers

(Issued 25-10-2017)
 

Christmas 

(Issued 26-11-2014)