H4_W2_003

Date: 2017

Location: Galapagos Islands

Did you know?

These only penguins found in Ecuador, are an endemic bird to the islands of Galapagos. It is second smallest species of penguin in the world (after little penguin) are just 53 cm or about 21 inches in height and weighs just 1.7 to 2.6 kg. Characterised by the presence of a narrow C-shaped band of white feather that extends from the eye to the chin on each side of the head and a single band of black feathers that cuts across the large region of white feathers on the breast Galapagos Penguins often hunt in groups; they pursue their prey in the water and capture them from the side or from below. More often than not both adult and juveniles are food for sharks They lay eggs in nests made of stone and twigs. Most breeding pairs are monogamous for life, and potent pairs can produce up to three clutches of eggs per year, with females often laying two eggs per clutch. Their nests are typically in caves and crevices as protection against predators and the harsh environment.

About the picture

This endangered species with less than 2000 birds extant. Penguins are threatened by pollution, bycatch and climate change. Introduced species, such as dogs, carry diseases that can spread to penguins as well, and cats pose a threat as predators. Past strong El Niño, an annual flow of warm equatorial waters southward around Christmas time, events have caused mortalities of up to 77 percent, with dramatic declines of prey species and reduced breeding success.

Fun Fact

Galapagos Penguins are the only penguins found north of the equator