Galapagos Penguin
NameGalapagos Penguin
Common NameGalapagos Penguin
Scientific NameSpheniscus mendiculus
FamilySpheniscidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)49
Weight (g)2150
Plumage DetailsFeatures a black back and head, with a white belly. A distinctive black band runs across the chest, extending up the sides to connect with the black plumage of the head. A white stripe runs from behind the eye down to the chin. Some individuals may have black spots on their white belly.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include barks, trumpeting calls, and hisses, especially during courtship or when defending territory.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, rocky shores, marine
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Galápagos Islands, primarily found on Fernandina Island and the west coast of Isabela Island, but also on Floreana, Santiago, and Bartolomé.
Identifying FeaturesSmallest penguin in the genus Spheniscus, Black C-shaped band across chest, White stripe from eye to chin, Only penguin species found in the tropics, Black spots on white belly
Description
The Galápagos Penguin is the only penguin species found north of the equator and is endemic to the Galápagos Islands. It is the second smallest penguin species, characterized by its distinctive black and white plumage and adaptation to tropical waters.
