Penguin

Penguin species spend most of their lives at sea, using wing-like flippers to propel through frigid water at speeds over 20 miles per hour. Dense overlapping feathers, waterproof oils, and thick layers of fat insulate against icy waves, while countershaded black-and-white plumage camouflages them from predators above and below. Emperor penguins endure the harshest Antarctic winters, whereas little blue penguins nest along temperate coasts and Galápagos penguins bask near the equator.

Penguins waddle awkwardly on land but toboggan across snow on their bellies, steering with flippers and feet. Sharp beaks capture krill, fish, and squid, and backward-facing spines on their tongues grip slippery prey. Salt glands above the eyes excrete extra salt from swallowed seawater, keeping body chemistry balanced. Some species dive hundreds of feet, holding their breath for over 15 minutes as they chase schools of fish in the inky depths.

Breeding colonies called rookeries can contain tens of thousands of birds. Mated pairs often reunite each season using distinctive calls. Emperor penguin males balance a single egg on their feet and tuck it under a brood pouch while females trek to the ocean to feed. In other species, both parents take turns incubating eggs and feeding chicks with regurgitated seafood. Crèches—groups of chicks huddled together—keep youngsters warm and safe while adults hunt.

Penguins face threats from climate change, overfishing, oil spills, and introduced predators on nesting islands. Warming seas reduce krill populations, forcing parents to travel farther for food. Conservationists establish marine protected areas, restore vegetation, and build nest burrows to shield eggs from scorching sun or heavy rain. Wildlife responders clean oiled birds, and researchers tag penguins with tiny GPS trackers to study migration routes.

Penguins inspire movies, mascots, and classroom lessons on adaptation. Students examine insulating materials, design mock waterproof suits, or participate in citizen science projects that count penguin photos from remote cameras. By supporting sustainable seafood, reducing plastic waste, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions, communities help penguins keep porpoising through cold spray for generations.