- Scientific Name: Pygoscelis papua
- Date Taken: January, 2001
- Location: South Georgia, Elephant Island, Antarctica
- Photographer: Howard Cunningham
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Gentoo penguins primarily inhabit the sub-Antarctic islands, including the Falkland Islands, South Georgia,
and the South Sandwich Islands. They also have a presence on the Antarctic Peninsula. They are the third-largest
species of penguin, after the Emperor and King penguins. Adult Gentoo penguins typically stand about 20 inches
(50-71 cm) tall and weigh around 12 pounds (5.5 kg). Their diet consists mainly of fish, squid, and krill.
They are excellent swimmers and can dive to considerable depths in search of food. Gentoo penguins build nests
using stones, moss, and other available materials. They typically lay two eggs, and both parents take turns
incubating the eggs. The incubation period lasts around 34 to 36 days. They are considered a near-threatened
species, primarily due to climate change and the potential impact on their habitat and food sources.
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