About Penguins

Penguins 👁 497 views Updated 2026-11-01

Sphenisciformes are the penguins, 19 species of flightless, marine birds confined to the Southern Hemisphere.

Overview

Sphenisciformes are the penguins, 19 species of flightless, marine birds confined to the Southern Hemisphere. Their wings are modified into flippers for swimming underwater, and they are supremely adapted to cold seas, with dense plumage and a thick fat layer. Penguins breed in vast colonies on coasts and islands and feed on fish, squid and krill. They are among the most beloved birds on Earth.

Classification

The order Penguins (Latin: SPHENISCIFORMES) comprises 1 families and roughly 19 living species. It is one of 44 orders that make up the class Aves.

Diversity & Distribution

Sphenisciformes are the penguins, 19 species of flightless, marine birds confined to the Southern Hemisphere.

Notable Families

Penguins and others.

‹ Penguins Back to Encyclopedia

WhatsApp

Scan QR to chat on WhatsApp

WeChat QR

Scan QR to add on WeChat

QQ