It is intended to ensure that these activities do not have adverse impacts on the Antarctic environment, or on its scientific and aesthetic values. Visitors are, of course bound by national laws and regulations applicable to activities in Antarctica. Protecting Antarctic Wildlife Taking or harmful interference with Antarctic Wildlife is prohibited except in accordance with a permit issued by a national authority. Do not use aircraft, vessels, small boats or other means of transport in ways that disturb wildlife either at sea or on land. Do not feed, touch or handle birds or seals, or approach or photograph them in ways that cause them to alter their behaviour.
Special care is needed when animals are breeding or moulting.
Do not damage plants, for example by walking, driving or landing on extensive moss beds or lichen-covered scree slopes. Do not use guns or explosives. Keep noise to the minimum to avoid frightening wildlife. A variety of areas in the Antarctic have been afforded special protection because of their particular ecological, scientific, historic or other values. Entry into certain areas may be prohibited except in accordance with a permit issued by an appropriate national authority.