Geography
The island is oriented approximately east-west, with a maximum elevation of 2,799 ft (853 m) at Pardo Ridge. Significant named features are Cape Yelcho, Cape Valentine and Cape Lookout at the northeastern and southern extremes, and Point Wild, a spit on the north coast. The Endurance Glacier is the main discharge glacier.
The island supports no significant flora or native fauna although migratory Gentoo penguins and seals may be found, and Chinstrap penguins nest in season. A lack of safe anchorage has prevented any permanent human settlement, despite the island being well placed to support scientific, fishing and whaling activities.
Elephant Island’s name can be attributed to both its elephant head-like appearance and the sighting of elephant seals by Captain George Powell in 1821, one of the earliest sightings. The weather is normally foggy with much snow, and winds can reach 100 miles per hour (160 km/h).
Read more about this topic: Elephant Island
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