Galápagos Penguinガラパゴスペンギン

Species Data

Classification

Sphenisciformes / Spheniscidae Source

Size

48–53 cm

Weight

About 1.7–4 kg

Lifespan

Thought to be about 15–20 years in the wild; individuals over 11 years old have been recorded

Diet

Piscivore Feeds mainly on small fish 1–15 cm long such as mullet and sardines, as well as crustaceans

Distribution

Endemic to the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador; about 90% of the population lives on Fernandina Island and the west coast of Isabela Island. It is the only penguin species found north of the equator. Source

Sources

ja.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org

Did You Know?

• It lives at a lower latitude than any other penguin species, resting in shade and panting heavily to cope with the equatorial heat. Source
• Pairs mate for life and molt twice a year, unlike most other penguin species that molt only once annually. Source

FAQ

Why is the Galápagos penguin endangered?

Strong El Niño events have repeatedly caused population crashes of 50–77% by disrupting the cold-water currents that bring its fish prey, and it also faces introduced predators, fishing bycatch, and tourism disturbance. Source

How does the Galápagos penguin survive equatorial heat?

It rests in shade, seeks out cool water and rocky crevices, and pants to release heat, since as the lowest-latitude penguin it must cope with far warmer conditions than any of its relatives. Source

How many operating facilities are registered here?

Operating facilities registered on this site: Japan 1 Source

Books & gear

• Galápagos Penguin book
• binoculars