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.
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King Penguin
Aptenodytes patagonicus
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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).
Learn
More
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The Falklands Regime by Mike Bingham
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in support of our work. If you would like to make a donation, click
here. |
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