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Adelie Penguins

Pygoscelis adeliae

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

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
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.

Fun Fact:

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

Current Conservation Status

Population trends:

Increasing arrow

Conservation Status:

Least Concern

Range Map:

Get more penguin information at the links below

Read through related blogs from our penguin experts for more information on Adelie Penguins:
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