The Magellanic Penguin is a member of the banded group of penguins.
Common Name: Magellanic Penguin
Scientific name: Spheniscus magellanicus
Population: 1.5 million breeding pairs
Weight and height: 3.2 kg – 4.6 kg, 65 cm
Lifespan: 15-20 years
Conservation status: Near Threatened
Population Trend: Decreasing
Geographic Breeding Range: Brazil; Peru; Uruguay; Falkland Islands; Argentina; Chile
Prey/diet: Fish, cephalopods, crustaceans
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.
