- Common Name: Chinstrap Penguin
- Scientific Name: Pygoscelis antarctica
- Date Taken: January 24, 2001
- Location: Elephant Island, Antarctica
- Photographer: Howard Cunningham
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Chinstrap penguins are easily identified by the distinctive black line that runs across their chin and upper throat,
giving them their name. Adults typically reach a height of about 28 to 30 inches (71 to 76 cm) and weigh between 4.4
to 11 pounds (2 to 5 kg). They are found primarily on the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic islands, as well as on the
Antarctic Peninsula. They breed in large colonies on rocky shores and volcanic islands, often choosing sites with
easy access to the ocean for feeding. They build circular nests with stones, and their colonies can be quite densely
populated. They typically breed during the Antarctic summer, which occurs from November to March. They lay two eggs,
and both parents take turns incubating the eggs, which usually hatch after about 35 days. The chicks are cared for
by both parents and are usually ready to fledge, or leave the nest, after about 50 to 60 days.
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