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King Penguin
Aptenodytes patagonicus

Breeding Range: Circumpolar on subantarctic islands
Length: 90cm.
Falklands Population: 400 breeding pairs
World Population: 1,500,000 breeding pairs

The King Penguin is the largest of the Falkland penguins.

It is a colonial breeder, found on sandy beaches at seven locations in the Falklands, with the majority of the population being found at Volunteer Point.

Adults make no nest and incubate the single large egg on their feet. Chicks hatch at the end of the austral summer and over-winter in creches prior to fledging the following spring. Adults can be seen at breeding sites throughout the year, but individuals forage long distances, feeding mainly on small Lanternfish at depths of 150 - 300 metres.

Adults begin breeding at 3 years of age and can live to over 30 years. Sexes are similar in appearance.

 

king penguin
King Penguin
Aptenodytes patagonicus

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penguin hatchling photograph
 

Adopt and name your penguin, and we will send you reports and photos of your penguin's progress. We will even send you a map to show you exactly where your penguin lives, in case you ever want to visit. (Visitors are welcome).

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click here to read more about our book penguins of the falkland islands and south america by doctor mike bingham

The Falklands Regime by Mike Bingham - now available online here or from bookshops world-wide, ISBN: 1420813757

The Falklands Regime by Mike Bingham

 

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