Emperor Penguin

Aptenodytes forsteri

Conservation Status

Vulnerable

Aves · Sphenisciformes · Spheniscidae

About

The emperor penguin is the tallest and heaviest of all living penguin species and is endemic to Antarctica. The male and female are similar in plumage and size, reaching 100 cm (39 in) in length and weighing from 22 to 45 kg. Feathers of the head and back are black and sharply delineated from the white belly, pale-yellow breast and bright-yellow ear patches.

Fun Fact

Emperor penguins incubate their eggs through the Antarctic winter at temperatures of -60°C (-76°F), with males balancing the egg on their feet for over two months without eating.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Antarctic sea ice and oceans

Diet

Piscivore

Lifespan

15-20 years

Threats

Overfishing
Poaching
Illegal Wildlife Trade

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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