Southern Ocean

Brrrr. Can you feel that. I am a very chilly place at the very bottom of the world. Big white castles made of ice float on my waves. They sparkle and shine when the sun says hello. On my shores, funny little penguins waddle back and forth. Waddle, waddle, waddle. They wear their best black and white coats every single day. Deep in my water, big, gentle whales sing beautiful songs to each other. They sing low and slow, sending happy sounds all around. I am a secret, sparkly place full of icy wonders. Do you know who I am. I am the Southern Ocean. It is so nice to meet you.

My waters are very special because they love to dance. I swirl and twirl all the way around the world in a great big circle. Round and round I go, a giant ocean hug for the bottom of the Earth. A long, long time ago, a brave explorer sailed his big boat on my waves. His name was Captain James Cook. He was very surprised to see so much ice. He waved hello to my penguins and seals. For many years, people knew I was here, but I didn't have a special spot on their maps. But then, on June 8th, 2021, something wonderful happened. Scientists said, 'You are the fifth ocean.' And they drew me on all their new maps for everyone to see. I felt so happy and proud.

I have a very important job. My cold water helps keep the whole planet from getting too hot. I am like a big, cool blanket for the world. I am also a safe and happy home for so many amazing animals. Tiny pink shrimp called krill swim together in my waves. They look like little pink clouds floating by. Even the biggest animal in the whole world, the giant blue whale, calls me home. It is a busy, happy home full of splashing and singing. I am a wild and wonderful place, here to remind you how amazing our world is and to always stay curious.