Pygoscelis papua

Gentoo Penguin

75–90 cm
15–20 anni
Minima preoccupazione
Informazioni

Gentoo Penguin

The gentoo penguin is the third-largest penguin species and the fastest swimmer of all penguins, reaching speeds of up to 36 km/h. Easily recognised by their distinctive white head-stripe and bright orange-red bill, gentoos are found across the sub-Antarctic islands and the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. They are less gregarious than other Antarctic penguins, nesting in smaller, more dispersed colonies.

Dimensioni

75–90 cm

Peso

4.5–8.5 kg

Durata della vita

15–20 anni

Stato

Minima preoccupazione

Dove trovarli

Migliori siti di immersione

Port Lockroy, AntartideNeko Harbour, AntartideIsole FalklandGeorgia del Sud Island

Consigli per le immersioni

Gentoo penguins are often encountered while zodiac cruising and on shore visits. Underwater encounters during diving are possible but rare. They are curious and may approach divers. On land, stay on marked paths and allow penguins the right of way — they have priority on 'penguin highways'.

Stagione migliore

November–February (Antarctic summer), chicks visible December–February

Habitat

Sub-Antarctic islands and northern Antarctic Peninsula. Nest on ice-free ground, beaches, and rocky outcrops.

Alimentazione

Krill, fish (lanternfish, icefish), and squid
Lo sapevi?

Curiosità

1

They are the fastest underwater swimmers of all penguin species, reaching 36 km/h

2

Gentoo males propose to females by presenting them with a carefully chosen pebble

3

They can dive to over 200 metres and spend up to 7 minutes underwater

4

Their population is actually increasing, unlike many Antarctic species

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