Carcass Island - island in the Falkland Islands
Carcass Island (Spanish: Isla del Rosario) is in the northwestern portion of the Falkland Islands. It is a favorite of birders due to the fact that it is one of the only islands in the country with no introduced rats, cats, or other predatory animals, so land-breeding birds have not been affected.
The only settlement on the island is Port Patterson 📍, where lodging is available.
Although the islands are claimed by Argentina, from a visitor's point of view, the Falkland Islands are under the control of the British local government. This page does not represent a political endorsement of either side of the dispute.
Get in
Visitors to Carcass Island arrive either via the government air service to the island's landing strip 📍 or on one of the many cruise ships that stop at the island each summer.
See
Carcass is one of the few islands within the Falklands that has remained free of cats and rats, and as a result it boasts one of the largest populations of songbirds. Other birds that are present include gentoo penguins, magellanic penguins, king cormorants and the striated caracaras (aka Johnny Rook). Marine mammals (sea lions, elephant seals, dolphins) are regular visitors to the beaches.
Do
There are no guided excursions, but the island is small enough that it can be easily toured by walking. A walk round the northern half of the island and then back over the central ridge to the settlement makes for an excellent full day's walk with breaks for watching the wildlife.
Buy, eat and drink
Limited supplies are available for purchase at the settlement; fresh produce should be purchased in Stanley and brought along. A fully-catered stay may be possible, but must be confirmed with the owners prior to arrival.
Sleep
Shared lodging is available at the main settlement of the island. The available cottages are heated and offer full kitchens.
- Carcass Island House, -51.29165°, -60.55581°, +500 41106. Oct - Mar. 2020-07-07