Adelie Penguins

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

Common Name: Adelie Penguin

Scientific name: Pygoscelis adeliae

Population: 2.4 million breeding pairs

Weight and height: 4.6 kg – 5.3 kg, 70 cm

Lifespan: 15-20 years

Conservation status: Least Concern

Population Trend: Increasing

Geographic Breeding Range: Antarctica; South Orkney Islands; South Sandwich Islands; Bouvet Island

Adelie Penguin

Prey/diet: Krill, various other crustaceans, and several species of fish

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.

Interesting tidbit about Adelie Penguins: Adelies were named by early Antarctic explorer Jules Dumont d’Urville after his loving wife, Adéle.