Chinstrap Penguin

About Chinstrap Penguin

Named for the thin black line running under their chin, chinstrap penguins are among the most abundant penguins in Antarctica. They form enormous breeding colonies — some exceeding 100,000 pairs — on rocky slopes of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. Bold and aggressive, they are fearless around divers.

Quick Facts

• Habitat: Antarctic Peninsula and sub-Antarctic islands. Nest on steep, rocky slopes above the shoreline.
• Diet: Primarily Antarctic krill, supplemented with small fish and other crustaceans
• Best season: November–February (Antarctic summer)

Fun Facts

They are considered the most aggressive penguin species,Chinstrap colonies can contain over 100,000 breeding pairs,They can swim at speeds of up to 32 km/h,Despite their small size, they can trek kilometres to reach nesting sites

Diving Tips

Chinstrap penguins are primarily encountered during shore excursions. They are feisty and territorial.