Penguins
Penguins are an aquatic and flightless bird found almost exclusively in the southern hemisphere; although many of us associate penguins with the freezing temperatures of the Antarctic their range reaches as far north as the tropical Galapagos Islands.
Penguins are highly adapted and spend up to 75% of their lives in the water.
Penguins are highly adapted and spend up to 75% of their lives in the water. Their distinct markings, known as countershading, help camouflage them from both above and below while they torpedo and dive hunting for squid, krill and fish.
Many species of penguin live in large groups with thousands of individuals. Emperor penguin colonies can grow so large that their populations can be monitored from space.
Cute factor – Waddle
As well as being known for their dress sense, penguins are famous for their waddle. While the side to side motion is a seemingly unfortunate trade-off for being able to fly through the water with ease scientists have found there is more to this motion hidden beneath the plumes. Penguins use this motion to lift and swing each leg, one after the other, building up momentum like a pendulum. Using this technique, the short legs are able to retain energy for the next step. Not so clumsy after all.
The waddling penguin
The walking style of the penguin looks to human eyes just like a waddling baby.
