Spheniscus demersus
The African Penguin is a medium-sized penguin with a distinctive black and white plumage. Its back, flippers, and head are black, while the underparts are white with a horseshoe-shaped black band across the chest and flanks.
Both sexes look similar, with juveniles having a duller, blue-grey plumage. Adults have pink patches of skin above the eyes and a black facial mask. Their beak is black, with a white band near the base.
Length
60cm to 70cm
Wingspan
50cm to 60cm
Weight
2.4kg to 3.7kg
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Black White
Secondary Colour
Pink
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Black
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
African Penguins are found along the southwestern coast of Africa, from Namibia to South Africa. They inhabit rocky islands and coastal areas, nesting on land but spending much of their time foraging in the ocean.
While primarily resident, some individuals may travel long distances in search of food, especially outside the breeding season. Their range is limited to areas influenced by the cold Benguela Current, which supports their prey species.
Sea level to 50 meters
Subtropical, Temperate
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a African Penguin. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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