The Emperor Penguin is an impressive and majestic animal that lives in the Antarctic. Here’s a little more about this majestic arctic bird.

Their Diet

These birds feed on fish, squid, octopus, krill and various crustaceans. They can dive to depths of 600 feet as they hunt for food!

The penguins do not drink fresh water from streams or rivers because it would freeze in their systems. They have to live off their incredible fat reserves to endure the harsh coldness of the Antarctic winters.

Characteristics

Emperor Penguins are one of the largest species of penguins, and their weight makes it difficult for them to swim. These birds have been recorded to reach speeds as high as 15-20 miles per hour on land but a swimming speed of only 4-5 miles per hour.

The male Emperor Penguin can weigh up to 30 pounds while females stand at only 23-24 pounds! Males are also taller than females and grow up to 4 feet high.

Social Life

Emperor Penguins travel in groups called ‘rafts’ which can reach up to thousands of individuals! They live in these rafts for protection and social interaction.

Emperor Penguins are monogamous and form long-lasting mates, even if they travel in different groups! They mate for life.

These birds lay one egg every year in September. The males take turns incubating the egg for almost two months while the females go out to feed.

Predators

Their main predators are leopard seals and orcas, or killer whales.

Emperor Penguins live for over 30 years. However, 10% of chicks do not survive their first year of life due to predation from leopard seals.