Emperor Penguin

Overview

Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) is a species of Penguins (Spheniscidae) in the order Penguins. The largest penguin, standing with a striking yellow-orange ear patch and silver-gray back; breeds on Antarctic sea ice in the dead of winter, males incubating the single egg through polar storms while fasting; dives deep after fish and krill; famous for its extreme endurance.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Aptenodytes; binomial: Aptenodytes forsteri; authority: Gray, GR, 1844. Typical size: 100-130cm. Average lifespan: 15-20 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: Antarctica. Non-breeding range: to edge of pack-ice.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.