We will explain the characteristics, distribution, natural reproduction, ecology, and habitat of the Galapagos penguin, which appears in the encyclopedia. The Galapagos penguin is the only penguin that lives in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, South America. They live in the lowest latitudes of all penguins, just below the equator, making them a very special penguin.
Basic information about Galapagos penguins
Galapagos penguins are birds classified in the genus Cape Penguin in the order Penguinformes and the family Penguinidae. The total length is 53cm, and the weight is about 2kg. Galapagos penguins are extremely rare and are listed as an endangered species.
| Japanese（和名） | ガラパゴスペンギン |
| English（英名） | Galápagos penguin |
| scientific name(学名) | Spheniscus mendiculus |
| classification（分類） | Sphenisciformes, Spheniscidae, Aptenodytes ペンギン目ペンギン科ケープペンギン属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | ENDANGERED |
| Height（身長） | 53cm |
| Weight（体重） | 2kg |
What will happen to the classification?
There are four species of Galapagos penguins in the Humboldt penguin genus (Cape penguin genus). It is said that Galapagos penguins originally lived in mainland South America. However, for some reason it was brought to the Galapagos Islands, where it is thought to have evolved into a different species. Therefore, they are somewhat unique compared to other races. This makes the Galapagos penguin one of the smallest penguin species.
| 名前：Name | 属名：Group | 生息地:habit |
| ガラパゴスペンギン(Galapagos Penguin) | Spheniscus フンボルトペンギン属 | ガラパゴス諸島 galapagos islands |
| ケープペンギン(African Penguin) | Spheniscus フンボルトペンギン属 | 南アフリカ South Africa |
| フンボルトペンギン(Humboldt Penguin) | Spheniscus フンボルトペンギン属 | チリ Chile |
| マゼランペンギン(Magellanic Penguin) | Spheniscus フンボルトペンギン属 | 南アメリカ太平洋岸 south america pacific coast |
About the Galapagos Penguin Habitat
The only habitat for Galapagos penguins is the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. These penguins only live on Fernandina and Isabela islands. They live in the tropical Galapagos, making them unique among wild penguins. It is said to have migrated here from the Humboldt Current and has a black appearance.
feature is? What kind of creature is it?
Galapagos penguins are the smallest of penguins. The whole body is covered with short feathers, and the plumage on the head and upper body is black. There is a white stripe down the throat. Males have a different body color on their upper and lower sides than females. The upper bill and tip of the bill are black. They are sensitive to heat, so when they go on land they tend to hide in the shade to beat the heat.
What will your personality look like?
Galapagos penguins are small among penguins, and like little penguins, they are somewhat wary, and if you get too close to them, they may bite you with their beaks. Humboldt penguin species tend to have the same overall personality and are thoughtful.
What is the ecology of Galapagos penguins?
Galapagos penguins forage during the day, subsisting on fish and crustaceans. They rarely form large groups and are often solitary. Breeding activity begins during the rainy season from April to May, and two eggs are laid at a time in cracks in coastal rocks, caves, etc. The incubation period is 38-40 days, and the chicks leave the nest 60-65 days after hatching. The lifespan is about 11 years.
What are the natural enemies of Galapagos penguins?
The natural enemies of Galapagos penguins are mainly non-native species. Dogs, cats, and even foxes have been introduced by humans and are preyed upon.
Are Galapagos penguins an endangered species?
Unfortunately, Galapagos penguins are listed as an endangered species. According to a survey conducted in 1999, the estimated population is only 1,200 birds, making them extremely rare. Their population continues to decline due to the following reasons. It is necessary to protect it.
Bringing in a predator
Humans have introduced predators to the Galapagos Islands. Their population is on the decline due to predation by dogs, cats, foxes, and weasels. Destruction of nest burrows and predation of chicks are considered problems. There have also been incidents of humans illegally abducting penguins.
fishing competition
The human population is also increasing, which means they are taking more fish. As a result, the Galapagos penguins have no fish to eat, making it difficult to find food nearby. Furthermore, due to climate change, it is becoming difficult to find food nearby. Sea surface temperatures are also rising due to the El Niño phenomenon, which is critical.
Protected under the jurisdiction of Ecuador
Against this backdrop, Galapagos penguins are currently protected under the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, which includes all 18 species of penguins. According to information, Galapagos penguins are protected under Ecuador’s jurisdiction and efforts are being made to increase their population.
Is it possible to keep Galapagos penguins?
Galapagos penguins are extremely rare and are listed as an endangered species, making them extremely difficult to obtain. The only option is to have the aquarium or zoo give it to you.
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