Emperor Penguin

Emperor Penguins Latest News

Recently, a study revealed that emperor penguins are the iconic species threatened by climate change in Antarctica. 

About Emperor Penguins

• Emperor penguins are the tallest and heaviest penguin alive today.
• They evolved about one million years ago, and are highly adapted to life in one of Earth’s harshest environments.
• Distribution: They are found throughout the Antarctic continent and sub-Antarctic islands.
• Breeding: In breeding months (April to November), emperor penguin colonies are found between 66° and 78° south latitude along the Antarctic coastline.
• Habitat: It is the most ice-adapted of any penguin species, inhabiting pack ice and surrounding marine areas. They spend their entire lives on Antarctic ice and in its waters.

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Features of Emperor Penguins

• Adults are coloured black and white with areas of orange and yellow on the head, neck, and breast. 
• They gain and lose weight rapidly during breeding and feeding seasons. On average, females tend to weigh less than males.
• They have two layers of feathers, a good reserve of fat, and proportionally smaller beaks and flippers than other penguins to prevent heat loss.
• They also huddle close together in large groups to keep themselves and each other warm.
• They are capable of diving to depths of approximately 550 metres (1,800 feet) in search of food; they are the world’s deepest-diving birds.
• Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
• Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

Source: DTE