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Magellanic Penguins

Source: David

Scientific Name: Spheniscus magellanicus

The Magellanic Penguin is a member of the banded group of penguins.

Estimated Population:

1.5 million breeding pairs

Weight and height:

3.2 kg – 4.6 kg, 65 cm

Lifespan:

15-20 years

Prey/Diet:

Fish, cephalopods, crustaceans

Conservation Status:

Near Threatened

Source: Shannon Derthick

Population trends:

Decreasing arrow

Distinguishing physical characteristics:

A white crescent on each side of the head curves from the eye down to join at the throat. A black throat band connects with the black feathers of the back, and a second black inverted U-shaped band on the chest extends down each flank. During the breeding season, a bare patch of pink or white skin is present around the eyes, extending to the bill. Legs and feet are black with mottled white and pink blotches, bill is black with a gray band near the tip, eyes are reddish brown.

Source: Pooja's Laboratory

Geographic Breeding Range:

Brazil; Peru; Uruguay; Falkland Islands; Argentina; Chile

Fun Fact:

The Magellanic Penguin is named after the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan who first reported seeing them in 1520. Magellanic Penguins dig burrows in the dirt up to 1 meter deep to make their nest and raise their young.

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Magellanic Penguin with its chicks
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