Galapagos Penguin
Spheniscus mendiculus
Conservation Status
EndangeredAves · Sphenisciformes · Spheniscidae
About
The Galápagos penguin is a penguin endemic to the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador. It is the only penguin found north of the equator. Most inhabit Fernandina Island and the west coast of Isabela Island. The cool waters of the Humboldt and Cromwell Currents allow it to survive despite the tropical latitude. The Galápagos penguin is one of the banded penguins, the other species of which live mostly on the coasts of Africa and mainland South America. Due to their warm environment, Galápagos penguins have developed techniques to stay cool. The feathers on their back, flippers, and head are black, and they have a white belly and a stripe looping from their eyes down to their neck and chin. Each penguin keeps only one mate, and breeds year-round. Because there are no soft areas to nest, their nests are typically in caves and crevices which also provide protection against predators and the harsh environment. The Galápagos penguin has a lifespan of 20 years, but due to predation, life expectancy in the wild could be significantly reduced. They have been critically impacted to the point of endangerment by climate change and pollution caused by plastic waste due to tourism and urbanization.
Fun Fact
It is the second-smallest species of penguin, after the little penguin.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Live on Fernandina Island and the west coast of Isabela Island, in the western part of the archipelago, but small populations also occur on Santiago, Bartolomé, northern Santa Cruz, and Floreana.
Diet
Eat small schooling fish, mainly mullet, sardines, pilchards and anchovies, and sometimes crustaceans.
Lifespan
20 years (wild)
Threats
- Habitat Loss
- Poaching and Hunting
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Disease