Guafo Island


Guafo Island is an island located southwest of Chiloé Island and northwest of Chonos Archipelago, Chile. The ocean currents have a way of depositing an abundance of fish in this area which makes it one of the most productive marine areas in the Southern Pacific Ocean. Because of this numerous marine vertebrates such as fur seals, sea lions and penguins reproduce and feed in the area. The prevailing west winds and the location make this a rainy, stormy place.

Biodiversity

Guafo Island is characterized by a high biodiversity that includes the largest breeding colony of South American fur seals on Chilean coasts, a large population of South American sea lions, and a reproductively active population of marine otters, a critically endangered species. Recently the coasts of the island have been indicated as an important feeding area of blue whales, Southern right whale, humpback whales and transient killer whales. Among seabird highlights is the largest breeding colony of sooty shearwater in the world as well as important nesting sites of Magellanic penguins and occasional sightings of Humboldt penguins. Historical data also shows that the Island was within the itinerary of the Beagle in 1835. Guafo Island has been considered within areas that are critical for marine conservation by the Wildlife Conservation Society and the World Wildlife Fund

Lighthouse

The lighthouse was built 1907 by George Slight and its rotating 4-man crews who serve 4 months on station is the only permanent population in the island. The lighthouse itself is only 8 meters tall, but the light is 144 meters above the sea.

Climate