GALAPAGOS PENGUIN

Galapagos penguins (spheniscus mendiculus) are endemic to Galapagos and are the only penguin species in the entire world that live in the Northern Hemisphere. Galapagos penguins are one of the four species of the genus Spheniscus.

Appearance - Galapagos penguins grow to about 50 cm tall and weigh between 1.5 and 2.5 kg. The males are somewhat larger and heavier.

Distribution - Galapagos penguins are found worldwide only on the Galapagos Islands. 95% of all breeding pairs are found on Isabela and Fernandina. With a population of about 4000, the species is threatened with extinction.

Nutrition - Galapagos penguins are not endurance divers; they can stay underwater for only 90 seconds, but can reach depths of up to 15 meters and speeds of up to 40 km/h. Their main prey is sardines. Their main prey are sardines and anchovies.

Reproduction - Galapagos penguins mate for life. They lay 1 -2 eggs 3 to 5 days apart. The pairs breed for about 40 days. The young are cared for by both parents.