ExploreBirds

African Penguin

Spheniscus demersus

The African Penguin is a small, charming bird that waddles on land and swims in the ocean. They have black and white feathers that help them stay safe in the water.

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The African Penguin is a medium-sized bird with a distinct black band across its white chest and a black back. It has unique pink patches above its eyes that help keep it cool, and a pointed beak.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderSphenisciformesFamilySpheniscidaeGenusSpheniscus
African Penguin
feathered trait badgewebbed_feet trait badgesocial trait badgepiscivorous trait badge
African Penguin

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

African Penguins can hold their breath for up to 2.5 minutes while diving for food!

Every African Penguin has a unique pattern of spots on its chest, like a human fingerprint!

Their waterproof feathers help them stay warm and dry in the chilly ocean water!

They build nests in burrows, sometimes using their own droppings to strengthen the walls!

Special abilities

Ability

Underwater Pursuit Hunter

African Penguin can dart through the ocean at speed to catch fish because of its streamlined body and powerful flippers.

Ability

Saltwater Filter

African Penguin has special glands above its eyes that help it drink saltwater by filtering out the salt.

Ability

Built-in Cooler

African Penguin has pink patches above its eyes that help cool its blood when it gets too hot.

Measurements & details

Length
60-70 cm
Wingspan
30-40 cm
Weight
2.2-3.5 kg
Lifespan
10-15 years
Top Speed
20 km/h
Clutch Size
1-2
Incubation
38-40 days

Diet & Feeding

These marine birds primarily eat small fish and squid, which they expertly catch while swimming underwater.

Primary Foods

  • sardines
  • anchovies
  • horse mackerel
  • squid
  • crustaceans

Foraging Method

  • Pursuit

Ecological connections

eaten by

Great White Shark

Carcharodon carcharias

Adult penguins are hunted by large sharks.

eaten by

Cape Fur Seal

Arctocephalus pusillus

Seals prey on penguins in coastal waters.

eats

Sardine

Sardinops sagax

A primary food source for adult penguins.

eats

Kelp Gull

Larus dominicanus

Gulls often steal eggs and chicks from nests.

Traits

Also known as

Jackass Penguin

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch penguins from a distance and do not try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is African Penguin?

60-70 cm

What is African Penguin's wingspan?

30-40 cm

How much does African Penguin weigh?

2.2-3.5 kg

How long does African Penguin live?

10-15 years

How fast can African Penguin move?

20 km/h

What does African Penguin eat?

These marine birds primarily eat small fish and squid, which they expertly catch while swimming underwater.

Where is African Penguin usually found?

Coastal areas

How does African Penguin hunt?

Pursuit

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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