Ruthless exploitation of the seals and penguins and destruction by domestic stock of the tussac grass – which provides food and shelter for both wildlife and sheep – have characterised the Falkland Islands in the recent past. Today, however, the outlook is brighter and both the government and private individuals are creating reserves and sanctuaries, including the 14 islands of the Jason group which are one of the richest untouched wildlife areas. The author, a naturalist living in the islands, and responsible for much of the survey work he describes, pleads for a rational use of the wildlife so that a balance can be achieved. Fortunately, tourism is already showing that wildlife has a new commercial value.