Aptenodytes patagonicus

King Penguin

85–95 cm
20–25 ans
Préoccupation mineure
À propos

King Penguin

The king penguin is the second-largest penguin species, standing nearly a metre tall with striking orange-gold ear patches and a regal bearing. Found on sub-Antarctic islands, king penguin colonies can number in the hundreds of thousands and are among the most spectacular wildlife gatherings on Earth. South Georgia Island hosts over 400,000 breeding pairs at Salisbury Plain alone — a sight that has been described as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on the planet.

Taille

85–95 cm

Poids

9–18 kg

Durée de vie

20–25 ans

Statut

Préoccupation mineure

Où les trouver

Meilleurs sites de plongée

Salisbury Plain, Géorgie du SudBaie St Andrews, Géorgie du SudBaie Fortuna, Géorgie du SudÎle Macquarie

Conseils de plongée

King penguins are primarily observed on shore visits. They are generally tolerant of quiet human observers. Sit or kneel at the colony edge and they will often approach within a metre. Underwater encounters are rare but possible near colony beaches.

Meilleure saison

November–March for breeding activity; chicks visible year-round as breeding cycle spans 14 months

Habitat

Sub-Antarctic islands. Breed on flat beaches and gently sloping terrain.

Régime alimentaire

Lanternfish, squid, and small crustaceans — hunted during deep dives
Le saviez-vous ?

Faits amusants

1

Their breeding cycle takes over 14 months — meaning they can only breed twice every three years

2

Chicks form massive crèches (nursery groups) of thousands while parents forage at sea

3

They can dive to over 300 metres and hold their breath for 7 minutes

4

Salisbury Plain on South Georgia hosts the largest king penguin colony, with over 400,000 breeding pairs

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