Spheniscus mendiculus
The Galapagos Penguin is the second smallest penguin species, characterised by its black upperparts and white underparts. It has a distinctive white band that runs from behind the eye, around the black ear coverts and chin, to join the white of the throat.
Both sexes look similar, with juveniles having a darker, more bluish-grey plumage. During the breeding season, adults develop a mottled appearance on their formerly white front due to moulting.
Length
48cm to 53cm
Wingspan
40cm to 45cm
Weight
1.7kg to 2.6kg
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Black White
Secondary Colour
Grey
Beak Colour
Pink Black
Leg Colour
Black Pink
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Galapagos Penguins are endemic to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. They are the only penguin species found in the wild north of the equator. They primarily inhabit the western islands of Isabela and Fernandina.
These penguins prefer cool, nutrient-rich waters brought by the Humboldt and Cromwell Currents. They nest on the rocky coasts of the islands, often in caves or crevices that provide shelter from the sun.
Sea level to 40 meters
Tropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Galápagos Penguin. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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