Adélie Penguin
Image: Ingvild Riska (cc-by)
NameAdélie Penguin
Common NameAdélie Penguin
Scientific NamePygoscelis adeliae
FamilySpheniscidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)70
Weight (g)4500
Plumage DetailsAdults display a glossy black head, back, and upper flippers, contrasting sharply with a pure white belly and underparts. A distinctive white ring encircles each eye. Chicks are covered in dense, dark gray down, which gradually molts to the adult black and white plumage.
Vocalization / CallAdélie Penguins produce a variety of harsh squawks, braying calls, and trumpeting sounds. These vocalizations are used for communication within their large colonies, territorial defense, and during courtship rituals.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal Antarctica, pack ice, rocky shores
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds along the entire coastline of the Antarctic continent and on several sub-Antarctic islands. Spends winters foraging in the surrounding pack ice.
Identifying Featuresblack head, white eye-ring, black back, white belly, waddling gait, short, stout bill
Description
Adélie Penguins are medium-sized, highly social penguins found exclusively in the Antarctic. They are easily recognized by their distinctive black and white plumage and prominent white eye-ring. These birds are known for their waddling gait on land and agile swimming abilities in the frigid waters.
