The wildlife calendar of Peninsula Valdes in Argentina is quite diverse and rich in species. Below is a general summary of some of the main species and their periods of activity or presence in the region:
- Southern Right Whale: Peninsula Valdes is known worldwide as one of the main whale-watching destinations. These majestic creatures visit the region between June and December to breed and give birth to their calves. The months of greatest activity are usually between September and November.
- Elephant Seals: Elephant seals arrive on the beaches of Peninsula Valdes mainly during the austral summer, between September and April. During this period you can observe the breeding colonies and the activity of these enormous mammals.
- Magellanic Penguins: These penguins migrate to the region to breed during the months of September to March/early April. The largest colony is at Punta Tombo, but they can also be observed at other locations in Peninsula Valdes.
- Orcas: Orcas visit Peninsula Valdes in search of prey, in the Caleta Valdes area particularly during the elephant seals breeding season, which is between October and December. They are known for ambushing elephant seal pups on the coast. At Punta Norte, the time of year to see them is between February and April, coinciding with the breeding season of the single-haired sea lion. Sea lion pups are born in January and begin learning to swim a few weeks later. These pups are the prey orcas usually hunt, although occasionally they may pursue juveniles and adults.
- Seabirds: Peninsula Valdes is an important habitat for various seabird species, such as gulls, cormorants, petrels and albatrosses. Their presence can be observed throughout the year, but the breeding and nesting season is usually during the warmer months.
