African Penguin

African penguins prey on anchovies, sardines and other small, shoaling fish supplied by the Benguela Current, a cold, nutrient-rich ocean current that follows their native southwest coast of Africa. They also feed on squid and crustaceans. Commercial fishing, however, has diminished their prey population and threatened their survival.

Adults don’t all breed at the same time, so colonies include eggs and chicks at various stages of development. Mating penguins often remain together for years. Females lay two eggs on average. The incubation period is about 40 days, with the male and female participating equally in the incubation duties. Adults guard chicks until they are about 30 days old, after which both parents can forage at sea simultaneously. Chicks that are left alone often form creches to defend against attacks from adults and other predator species. Chicks fledge from 60 to 130 days of age. Juveniles leave their natal colonies for 12 to 22 months, then return to molt into adult plumage.

Strong, flipper-like wings propel African penguins forward in the water while webbed feet and tails act as rudders and help steer. Dense bones help penguins use less energy when diving for prey. Tongues and palates are covered with stiff spines that point backward to grip prey and move it along. African penguins use their black-and-white plumage, called “countershading,” as camouflage when hunting fish or evading predators. Dark feathers on their backs are difficult to see underwater from above; pale front sides blend in with the lighter surface of the sea when viewed from below. African penguins have patches of exposed skin near their eyes. Blood cools as it circulates through this area. On hot days, more blood circulates and the patch becomes pinker. They also have special muscles that push their feathers outward, releasing trapped heat.