Pygoscelis papua

Gentoo Penguin

75–90 cm
15–20 anos
Pouco preocupante
Sobre

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.

Tamanho

75–90 cm

Peso

4.5–8.5 kg

Expectativa de vida

15–20 anos

Estado

Pouco preocupante

Onde encontrá-los

Melhores locais de mergulho

Port Lockroy, AntártidaPorto Neko, AntártidaIlhas MalvinasGeórgia do Sul Island

Dicas de mergulho

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'.

Melhor época

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.

Alimentação

Krill, fish (lanternfish, icefish), and squid
Você sabia?

Curiosidades

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

Comece sua aventura

Pronto para mergulhar com este animal?

Explore nossas expedições de liveaboard para os melhores destinos de mergulho