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Royal Penguins

Source: Ellen Rykers

Scientific Name: Eudyptes schlegeli

The Royal Penguin is a member of the crested group of penguins.

Estimated Population:

850,000 breeding pairs

Weight and height:

5.5 kg, 66 cm - 76 cm

Lifespan:

15-20 years

Prey/Diet:

Myctophid fishes, euphasiid crustaceans

Conservation Status:

Near Threatened

Source: Shannon Derthick

Population trends:

Stable arrow

Distinguishing physical characteristics:

Conspicuous yellow crest feathers parted in the middle of the head, similar to Macaroni Penguins. Differentiated from Macaroni Penguin by a white or pale face on the Royal Penguin. The bill is heavy and orange or red in color, with a pink gape. Legs and feet are pink, eyes are dark red.

Source: Pooja's Laboratory

Geographic Breeding Range:

Australia (Macquarie Island; Bishop Island)

Fun Fact:

The scientific name of the Royal Penguin commemorates the German zoologist Herman Schlegel.

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