King penguins (Aptenodytes patagonicus) are the second-largest species of penguin, and at first glance look very similar to their close relatives – the emperor penguins, only they are about 25% smaller. They stand 70 to 100 cm tall and weigh between 9.3 to 18 kg. Males are slightly larger than females and can be distinguished by their calls, although they look very similar in appearance.
King penguins have a broad cheek patch that contrasts with their darker feathers and yellow[1]orange waterproof plumage on the upper chest. However, you can tell them apart: the cheek patch of an adult king penguin is a solid bright yellow, while it is yellow and white on an emperor penguin.
King penguins also tend to have more orange and less yellow on their chest. King penguins have four layers of feathers that insulate them and protect them from their harsh, cold climate. Both king and emperor penguins have colourful markings on the sides of their lower jaws, which play important roles in survival and attracting mates.
King penguins are sleeker than other penguins, with longer, narrower flippers adapted for efficient swimming rather than flying. Their legs are set further back on their bodies, which makes walking a bit awkward but helps them swim in a streamlined way. They can swim at speeds of 4 to 6 miles per hour.
Like all birds, they have a beak with a hard keratin exterior instead of teeth. Inside their mouths are spiny growths called papillae, which help them grip slippery food like fish and guide it toward their stomachs.
King penguins are carnivores, and their favourite food is lanternfish. However, when lanternfish is not available in large numbers, they also eat other small fish, krill, squid, and various crustaceans. Seafood makes up their entire diet.
They live on subantarctic islands with temperatures between 7 to 13°C, including The Crozet Islands, the Falkland Islands, and South Georgia Island. The total population is estimated at 2.23 million breeding pairs, and it is still increasing.
However, recent research shows that king penguins are traveling farther from their native habitats to find food. This puts their energy balance at risk and may lead to lower reproductive success. Scientists have found that changes in ocean productivity have caused major population shifts in the past. In the future, prey availability will likely be the most important factor limiting king penguin distribution.
The biggest concern is that many large colonies may decline due to the increasing distance to foraging grounds. Colonies in the northern range are most at risk, while those in the south or near the Antarctic front, such as South Georgia Island, may become important refuges for the species.
References: Penguin Health Equals Ocean Health – Smithsonian Ocean. 10 Cool Facts About Penguins – City of Albuquerque
