African Penguin
The African Penguin is a charismatic and endangered species found along the coastlines and islands of Southern Africa. Known for its distinctive braying call, which sounds like a donkey.
This penguin is a popular sight at zoos and aquariums worldwide. Unlike other penguin species that live in frigid climates, the African Penguin is adapted to a warmer environment. It has a special gland above its eyes that helps it regulate its body temperature.
Its diet consists of fish and squid, which it expertly catches with its powerful beak and webbed feet. The African Penguin is a master of the sea, and its streamlined body allows it to "fly" through the water with incredible speed. However, they face significant threats from overfishing and oil spills.
African Penguin
Classification
Aves > Sphenisciformes > Spheniscidae > Spheniscus > S. demersus
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
2 feet
(0.6 m)
Average Weight
5 - 8 lbs
(2.3 - 3.6 kg)
Average Life Span
10 - 20 years
Gestation Period
38 - 42 days
Did You Know?
The African Penguin is the only penguin species that breeds in Africa.
They are sometimes called "jackass penguins" because of their donkey-like braying call.
African Penguins can swim at speeds of up to 12 miles per hour (20 km/h).
They have distinctive pink patches above their eyes, which help them to cope with temperature changes.
Sadly, the African Penguin population has declined dramatically due to overfishing and oil spills.
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