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Adelie Penguins

Source: Hubert Neufeld

Scientific Name: Pygoscelis adeliae

Adelie Penguins are members of the brush-tailed group of penguins, so-called for their long tail feathers.

Estimated Population:

2.4 million breeding pairs

Weight and height:

4.6 kg – 5.3 kg, 70 cm

Lifespan:

15-20 years

Prey/Diet:

Krill, various other crustaceans, and several species of fish

Conservation Status:

Least Concern

Population trends:

Increasing arrow

Distinguishing physical characteristics:

The head, chin, throat, upper parts of the body, back and tails are black, fading to brown with wear. The underparts of the bird are white. Bill is black with pink at the base. Eye is brown with a prominent white eye ring. Legs are feathered and feet are pale pink or white.

Source: Pooja's Laboratory

Geographic Breeding Range:

Antarctica; South Orkney Islands; South Sandwich Islands; Bouvet Island

Fun Fact:

Adelies were named by early Antarctic explorer Jules Dumont d’Urville after his loving wife, Adéle.

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Adelie Penguin Articles

Fish is a Superfood for Adélie Penguin Chicks

Fish is a Superfood for Adélie Penguin Chicks by Nataly H. AranzamendiAdélie Penguins are the…
Adelie Penguin
Adelie Penguin Articles

Adelie Penguins – Nature’s Cutest Thieves May Play a Role as an Indicator Species

by Mike King Of the 18 penguin species currently recognized by science, none are quite…