[citation needed] The area was visited by early 19th century sealers operating from nearby Clothier Harbour.

[citation needed] During the austral summer the islands are often visited by Antarctic cruise ships with tourists who land to watch wildlife.

[3] The islands were mapped in 1935 during the oceanographic investigations carried out by the Discovery Committee, and named after the Hydrographic Office of the UK Admiralty.

[citation needed] The islands and some notable rocks of the Aitcho group are: Among the bird species found on the islands are chinstrap and gentoo penguins, southern giant petrels, and skuas.

[2][3] Regular wildlife surveys are conducted to assess the populations of birdlife on the islands.