Galapagos Penguin
Image: Lisa Bezuidenhout (cc-by-nc)
NameGalapagos Penguin
Common NameGalapagos Penguin
Scientific NameSpheniscus mendiculus
FamilySpheniscidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)2150
Plumage DetailsGalapagos Penguins have a dark grey to black back and head, with a white belly. A distinctive black band runs across the chest and down the flanks, forming a 'C' shape. They also have a white stripe extending from behind the eye to the chin.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include barks, trumpeting calls, and hisses, particularly when communicating with mates, chicks, or when feeling threatened.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal waters, rocky shores, volcanic islands
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Galapagos Islands, primarily found on the western islands of Fernandina and Isabela, but also on Floreana, Santiago, and Bartolomé.
Identifying Featuressmall size (smallest tropical penguin), black band across chest forming 'C' shape, white stripe from eye to chin, dark grey/black back and head, white belly, found exclusively in the Galapagos Islands
Description
The Galapagos Penguin is the only penguin species found north of the equator and is the third smallest penguin in the world. These flightless birds are highly adapted for marine life, using their strong flippers to propel themselves through the water in pursuit of prey. They are often seen resting on rocky shores or swimming in the cool waters around the Galapagos Islands.
