QUESTION:
What inspired you to go to Antarctica and do your studies?

        Alisha B., 14
        Lewiston Alternative Middle School
        Lewiston Idaho



ANSWER from Donna Patterson, Research Assistant, Dr. Fraser's Team
            Palmer Station, Antarctica
            Thu, 20 Mar 1997 14:14:18 -0500

Dear Alisha,


I first came to Antarctica as an employee of the support company  
and became intrigued with the breeding birds here.  I was able to 
return the following season with a science group and use some 
of my school background in Zoology/Wildlife Management to study the 
ecology of the penguins, petrels and skuas.   I have been inspired to 
return every season since there is still so much to learn about the 
birds that breed here, what affects them during the winter, where 
they go, when the juveniles return to breed, etc!    The bird that I 
hope to continue working with the most is the Giant Petrel whose 
young leave the Antarctic Peninsula and are often seen only a few 
months later in Australia!    The petrels will probably keep me 
inspired with my studies for years to come.  

Thanks for you questions!
Donna Patterson