King Penguin colony

King Penguin

Aptenodytes patagonicus

The second largest species of penguin.

Size

70-100 cm

Wingspan

50-60 cm

Weight

9300-18000 g

Lifespan

15-20 years in the wild

Conservation

Least Concern

Identification

Distinctive orange-yellow patches on the head and neck. Silver-grey back and white belly.

Habitat

Subantarctic islands and surrounding waters.

Diet

Lanternfish, squid, and krill.

Behavior

Forms large breeding colonies. Does not build a nest, incubates egg on feet.

Distribution

Subantarctic regions.

Description

The King Penguin is the second largest species of penguin, smaller, but somewhat similar in appearance to the emperor penguin. They breed on subantarctic islands.