Gentoo penguin
Pygoscelis papua
There are 19 species of penguin in the world. The gentoo penguin is the third-largest member of the penguin family, after the emperor and king penguin and is the fastest underwater swimming bird. This penguin can reach speeds of up to 22.4 miles per hour.
All penguin species are found in the Southern Hemisphere. Gentoo penguins are found in the Falklands, South Georgia, Kerguelen, Marion, Macquarie and the Antarctic peninsula.
During breeding season, a nest of stones, grass and moss is constructed. The male presents the female penguin with a pebble and if she accepts they will mate. The gentoo penguin can be up to 80 centimetres long and can weigh up to six kilogrammes.
Belfast Zoo’s penguin colony can be seen on their ‘pebble beach’ or you can admire their skills at the underwater viewing area. They share their area with our rockhopper penguins.
You can take part in an interactive animal experience with our gentoo penguins.
IUCN Status
The IUCN status of the gentoo penguin is least concern.
For more info on classifications visit www.iucnredlist.org (link opens in new window).
Fun fact
Male penguins present females with pebbles as a mating ritual.
Animal class
Bird
Conservation status
Gentoo penguins are protected by the Antarctic Treaty of 1959 and received near threatened status on the IUCN Red List in 2007.
Habitat
Water
Population
The gentoo penguin population is increasing in Antarctica, but are declining in other areas.
Diet
Piscivore. The gentoo penguin eats small plankton, squid and fish.