Appearance

Has a black stripe and unique black spots on its chest. Pink glands above its eyes become pinker as the penguin gets hotter. Males are larger and have larger beaks than females.

Habitat

Found within 40 kilometers of the shore, coming onshore to coastal habitats to breed, molt, and rest.

Distribution

Breeds on the African mainland from Hollams Bird Island, Namibia to Bird Island, Algoa Bay, South Africa.

Breeding

Breeds in burrows dug into guano, protecting from extreme heat.

Diet

Feeds on pelagic schooling fish, particularly sardine and anchovy.

Average Lifespan

20 years in the wild.

Conservation Status

IUCN: Endangered.

Threats

Global-warming-induced shifts in marine and atmospheric environments that threaten the penguin's habitat.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Consider the following statements regarding the African penguin:

1. The African penguin is native to the African mainland and is found on the coasts of Namibia and South Africa.
2. It is the only species of penguin found in Africa and is known for its black and white plumage with a distinct black stripe across its chest.
3. The African penguin is listed as ‘Endangered’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to threats from climate change, oil spills, and habitat loss.

Which of the above statements are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: d

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: It is native to the African mainland and is found along the coasts of Namibia and South Africa. It breeds on various islands off the southern coast of these two countries.

Statement 2 is correct: The African penguin is the only penguin species found in Africa, and it has distinctive black and white plumage, with a characteristic black stripe across its chest, making it easily recognizable.

Statement 3 is correct: The African penguin is listed as "Endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to several threats. These include climate change, which affects food availability and nesting conditions, oil spills, and habitat loss due to human activities.