African Penguin
Spheniscus demersus
Adults live on islands and mainland beaches along Namibia and South Africa, nesting in burrows, guano scrapes, or sheltered sites near the sea. They hunt mostly sardines, anchovies, and other small fish, pursuing prey with agile underwater wing strokes rather than flight. On land they waddle, bray, preen, and defend nest sites with pecks, flipper slaps, and threat displays. The pink bare skin above the eyes helps release heat, an important adaptation for a penguin living in a warm-temperate climate.
- Type
- Water
- Conservation status
- CR
Growth chain
- African Penguin Chick
- African Penguin Juvenile
- African Penguin