On the trail of the guano miners – in pictures

The article explores the ongoing guano mining on Santa Island, Peru, where workers continue to extract seabird excrement for fertilizer under challenging conditions. This practice, which significantly contributed to Peru's economy in the 19th century, highlights the enduring legacy of guano and its importance in agriculture. The striking photographs by Ernesto Benavides capture the harsh realities faced by these miners, reminding us of the historical significance and the labor involved in this unique industry.