In the heart of the Blue Patagonia Park, a team of scientists is carrying out an innovative project to monitor the marine fauna in remote areas, the reproductive performance, and the behavior of marine birds in their nesting colonies. Ignacio “Nacho” Gutiérrez, a field technician in island restoration projects and monitoring of marine bird colonies, explains how these initiatives seek to study sensitive species and bring the public closer to the marine environment, an environment that few have the opportunity to know.
### Technology in the service of conservation
“We use high-resolution cameras that stream live from the islands 24 hours a day, to obtain information about the reproductive biology of the Imperial Cormorant, the Southern Giant Petrel, and the Magellanic Penguin,” details Nacho. The islands Tovita, Gran Robredo, and Tova are important sites for the reproduction of these three species within the Interjurisdictional Coastal Marine Park of Southern Patagonia (PIMCPA). These islands, difficult to access, host species sensitive to human disturbance. The use of cameras connected to the internet allows monitoring and studies without impact due to human presence. The work is carried out in collaboration with the Marine Top Predator Ecology Laboratory (www.leptomar.org) of the Institute of Marine Organisms Biology (IBIOMAR-CONICET), under the direction of Dr. Flavio Quintana, CONICET Senior Researcher.
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> “This technology allows us to record critical data on chick rearing, reproductive success, causes of mortality, unfavorable weather events, etc.,” explains Nacho.
### The arrival of penguins and other stories recorded live
One of the cameras points directly at the beach of Tova Island, where Magellanic penguins return after their autumn and winter migrations. “The males arrive first, then the females, and it is important to know when the peak of arrivals occurs each year, as that information can be an indicator of how favorable the time spent in the sea was prior to the reproductive period,” says Nacho.
The information obtained has a direct impact on conservation strategies. “Knowing the reproductive performance of these species is an important indicator of the health of the marine ecosystem,” explains Nacho.
### The challenge of remoteness
Working on islands that are difficult to access is not without its challenges. “Getting there requires great logistics, and installing the cameras brings technical difficulties, such as ensuring connectivity and image quality,” shares Nacho. However, these difficulties are embraced with enthusiasm when understanding the potential impact of these tools.
Remote monitoring also has an unexpected added value: it allows bringing nature closer to those who do not have access to these places. “Seeing a penguin feeding its chicks or a petrel in its colony is an exciting experience. This not only contributes to research but also to the education and appreciation of our marine fauna in remote areas.”
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### Emotional connection with nature
Nacho emphasizes that working so close to these pristine ecosystems has a deep personal impact. “It’s unique to be in places where animals are away from human activities. It connects you with the essential, with wild nature.” This feeling is also shared by those who watch the live broadcasts from their homes.
The project promises to unravel mysteries about the behavior of these marine birds, as well as to inspire a greater understanding and respect for the biodiversity that inhabits the coasts of Chubut.
