Royal Penguin
NameRoyal Penguin
Common NameRoyal Penguin
Scientific NameEudyptes schlegeli
FamilySpheniscidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)70.5
Weight (g)5500
Plumage DetailsAdult Royal Penguins have a black back and flippers, a white belly, and a distinctive white face and chin. Their most prominent feature is the bright yellow-orange crest that originates from a black stripe on the forehead and extends backward above the eyes.
Vocalization / CallRoyal Penguins produce a variety of loud, trumpeting, and braying calls, especially during breeding season to communicate with mates and defend territories within their dense colonies.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeThe Royal Penguin is endemic to Macquarie Island, a subantarctic island located in the southwest Pacific Ocean, where it breeds exclusively. They forage in the surrounding cold Antarctic waters.
Identifying FeaturesBright yellow-orange crests extending from the forehead, White face and chin contrasting with a black cap, Large, reddish-orange bill, Black back and white belly
Description
The Royal Penguin is a medium-sized, crested penguin known for its striking yellow-orange plumes extending from its forehead. These highly social birds breed in large colonies on subantarctic islands, often engaging in vocal and sometimes aggressive interactions, as seen in the image.
