Penguins make themselves at home on the island that bears their name.
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In the far southeastern coast of Argentina, off Patagonia, in a cold, remote area that's uncomfortably close to Antarctica, lies Isla Pingüino. The desolate island can be reached only by helicopter or boat. It's a nature preserve, home to a large colony of penguins that don't mind the cold, wetness and wind.
In 1903, a 72-feet (22-meter) high lighthouse was built of masonry and topped with cast iron. A one-story building served as quarters for the keeper, but that's now falling apart.
Harsh conditions and the remoteness of the island -- not sea erosion -- have harmed the lighthouse. An automated light is still active, but the lighthouse is in very poor condition. Without maintenance, the tower will go the way of the keeper's house.
