African Penguin
Spheniscus demersus
Critically Endangered
The African Penguin is the only penguin that lives in Africa! Found along the southern coast, these endangered penguins make a braying sound like a donkey, earning them the nickname 'jackass penguin'.
African penguins have special pink glands above their eyes that help them stay cool in the hot African sun. Sadly, they've declined by 95% in the last century due to fishing, oil spills, and habitat loss.
Size
About 2 feet tall - the size of a toddler
Medium (25-40 cm)
Wingspan: 65 cm
Weight: 3500 g
Colors
black
white
pink
Habitat
coastal
Diet
fish
Fun Facts
- ✨The only penguin species in Africa!
- ✨Called 'jackass penguins' because they bray like donkeys.
- ✨Pink patches above their eyes help them cool down!
- ✨They've declined by 95% and are now endangered.
Conservation Status
Critically Endangered
This bird is in serious danger! There are very, very few left. Scientists and conservationists are working hard to help them survive.
Population trend: decreasing 📉