Gentoo Penguin

The Gentoo Penguin is a medium to large penguin easily identified by a distinctive white patch that arches over the top of the head like a bonnet, connecting above each eye, combined with a striking bright orange-red bill. Its back is black to blue-black and its belly white, with pinkish-orange feet that add another splash of color. It is the third-largest penguin species overall and holds the distinction of being the fastest swimming bird in the water, reaching bursts of speed well over 30 km/h (20 mph).

Gentoo Penguins are found across a wide range of sub-Antarctic islands and parts of the Antarctic Peninsula, with a longer tail than most other penguins that is often visible dragging behind them as they waddle on land.

Key field marks

• White patch arching over the top of the head above each eye
• Bright orange-red bill
• Pinkish-orange feet
• Relatively long tail, often trailing visibly behind while walking

Similar species

• Adelie Penguin has an all-black head with a white eye-ring rather than a white cap patch, and a black bill.
• Chinstrap Penguin has a white face and a thin black chin line, quite different from the Gentoo's white head patch and orange bill.

Habitat

Breeds on ice-free beaches and tussock grass slopes of sub-Antarctic islands and parts of the Antarctic Peninsula, foraging in nearby cold coastal waters.

Range

Found on islands including South Georgia, the Falklands, Kerguelen, and along the western Antarctic Peninsula.

Migration

Largely non-migratory, remaining near breeding colonies year-round, though some local dispersal occurs outside the breeding season.

Behavior

An exceptionally fast and agile swimmer, using powerful flipper strokes to reach the highest recorded swimming speeds of any diving bird while pursuing prey underwater.

Voice

Gives loud trumpeting and braying calls during courtship and at breeding colonies.

Feeding

Dives to catch krill, small fish, and squid, typically foraging closer to shore and to shallower depths than some other penguin species.

Nesting

Builds a nest of stones, grass, and other available materials on ice-free ground; typically lays 2 eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties.