Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 01/26/2012 - 10:47
Forums
Weddell Seals in the Ross Sea

Hey Ms. Alex, Happy exploring!!

  1. In the picture with the snow kitchen, what do the different colored flags in the background signify? We noticed the red ones by the kitchen but green ones in the background.
  2. Are there other activities you are doing in Antarctica or is it all work??
  3. How long do the seals stay out of the water at a time?

We looked up McMurdo Station on Google Earth which gave us an idea of where you are. Each class is amazed at your adventure!!

Thanks for sharing!!

Ms. Vescovi's 3rd grade computer class (Ms. Sykes) Keystone Elementary Memphis, TN

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 11:25

Alex Eilers

Hey Ms. Sykes and Ms. Vescovi's 3st graders!Yes it is a very exciting time! Each day seems to get better and better!
You asked some great questions - I'll answer them one at a time.
1. In the picture with the snow kitchen, what do the different colored flags in the background signify? We noticed the red ones by the kitchen but green ones in the background. You are a very observant group! From what I understand, the red, green and blue flags help mark travel paths but the black flags indicate something you should watch out for. At Happy Camper we used the flags to mark the location of the kitchen and the sleeping trenches.
2. Are there other activities you are doing in Antarctica or is it all work?? We do work a lot! But occasionally there is free time - and there is a lot for us to do. For instance:
* Go skiing
* Go for a hike
* Play racquetball, volleyball or basketball in the gym
* Exercise
* Read
* Listen to music
* Shop at the gift store!
* Attend a lecture
* They also play board games like Apples to Apples or Cranium - and every once in a while you might catch them playing a game like Rockem Sockem Robot (an old game from the 1960). Our group did this the other night.
3. How long do the seals stay out of the water at a time? That really varies depending on the seals
Thanks again for your questions and keep then coming!
Alex