Mount Erebus
Geographic Data
Mount Erebus, standing at 3,794 meters, is the southernmost active volcano on Earth and the most prominent geological feature in Western Birdland. Located on Ross Island, it has been continuously active since at least 1972 and contains one of only a handful of persistent lava lakes on the planet.
Volcanic Activity
Erebus produces Strombolian eruptions, ejecting volcanic bombs of anorthoclase phonolite --- a rare crystal-bearing lava found almost nowhere else on Earth. The lava lake in the summit crater has been a subject of volcanological research for decades.
Research
The Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory, jointly operated by the Ministry of Science and international partners, provides continuous monitoring of seismic activity, gas emissions, and lava lake dynamics. Data from Erebus contributes to global understanding of volcanic processes.
Cultural Significance
Erebus holds an important place in Birdland's cultural identity. Many species regard the volcano's constant plume of steam as a symbol of the continent's living, dynamic nature. The mountain is featured on the 50-pebble note, Birdland's highest denomination of currency.