Penguins

Everything You Need to Know About Penguins

Penguins belong to the Spheniscidae family, they are flightless birds that can survive in cold polar climates. Penguins are a type of marine bird with webbed feet, which allows them to swim efficiently. Their most distinct physical characteristics include black and white plumage, a bright white belly, and dark bands around their bodies.

Did you know that there are no penguins in the Northern Hemisphere? Yes, you read that right! Penguins do not exist in the Northern Hemisphere, including the Arctic. They are only found in the Southern Hemisphere, inhabiting Antarctica, New Zealand, Australia, South America, South Africa, and the Galápagos Islands. Contrary to common belief, some species do not only live in icy regions but can also survive in temperate zones.

It is known that there are approximately 18 different species of penguins. In this article, we will focus on the Humboldt Penguins, which you can observe up close at Emaar Aquarium.

Humboldt Penguins at Emaar Aquarium

Humboldt Penguins belong to the Spheniscus genus of the Spheniscidae family. They are named after the German naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, who was the first Western scientist to observe them. Additionally, their habitat is also named after the Humboldt Current, where these penguins thrive.

These penguins live in small colonies along the western coasts of South America, particularly in the cold waters influenced by the Humboldt Current.

What Do Humboldt Penguins Look Like?

Adult Humboldt Penguins can grow up to 60 centimeters in height. Their upper bodies are blackish-gray, while their underbellies are white with irregular gray spots. The most distinctive feature of this species is the bold black chest band and pink facial skin.

Height: 56–70 cm

Weight: 3–5 kg

Humboldt Penguins are medium-sized penguins. They are smaller than Emperor and King Penguins but larger than Galápagos Penguins.

What Do Humboldt Penguins Eat?

Humboldt Penguins mainly feed on small fish such as anchovies and sardines, as well as crustaceans. They hunt in groups and can dive up to 50 meters deep while searching for food.

How Do Humboldt Penguins Reproduce?

Unlike most penguin species that nest on ice or rocky surfaces, Humboldt Penguins prefer nesting in caves and crevices between rocks near shallow waters.

• Breeding Frequency: Humboldt Penguins can breed twice a year, which is unusual compared to other cold-climate penguins, making them unique.
• Nesting Habits: They do not build traditional nests but instead lay their eggs in rocky caves and burrows for protection.

Are Humboldt Penguins Endangered?

Yes, Humboldt Penguins are classified as a vulnerable species. Several factors contribute to their population decline:

• Overfishing and Habitat Destruction: Excessive fishing in their habitat reduces their natural food sources.
• Bycatch and Fishing Nets: Many penguins accidentally get caught in fishing nets and drown.
• Climate Change: Rising ocean temperatures affect the availability of fish, impacting their survival.

Conservation efforts are crucial to protect and sustain the Humboldt Penguin population in the wild.

At Emaar Aquarium, you can observe and learn more about these fascinating penguins in a specially designed habitat that mimics their natural environment. Don’t miss the chance to witness their playful behavior and feeding sessions!