Pygoscelis papua (J.R.Forster, 1781)

Head and Bill Features

The gentoo penguin (scientific name Pygoscelis papua, published by J.R.Forster in 1781) is easily recognized by the broad white stripe that extends like a bonnet across the top of its head, along with its bright orange-red bill.

Feet and Tail Traits

It has pale whitish-pink webbed feet and a relatively long tail, which is the most prominent tail of all penguin species.

Chick Appearance

Gentoo penguin chicks have grey backs and white fronts.

Genus Name Origin

As the penguin waddles along on land, its tail sticks out behind and sweeps from side to side; this movement gives the genus its name Pygoscelis, which means "rump-tailed".

Size and Weight

Species Size Ranking

Gentoo penguins reach a total length of 70 to 90 cm (28 to 35 in), making them the third-largest penguin species, after the emperor penguin and the king penguin.

Male Weight Variation

Males reach a maximum weight of around 8.5 kg (19 lb) just before moulting, and a minimum weight of about 4.9 kg (11 lb) just before mating.

Female Weight Variation

For females, maximum weight reaches 8.2 kg (18 lb) just before moulting, but their weight drops to as little as 4.5 kg (9.9 lb) while guarding chicks in the nest.

Population Size Differences

On average, gentoo penguins from northern populations are 700 g (1.5 lb) heavier and 10 cm (3.9 in) longer than southern individuals.

Southern Population Length

Southern gentoo penguins reach 75–80 cm (30–31 in) in length.

Swimming and Adaptations

Underwater Swimming Speed

Gentoo penguins are the fastest underwater swimmers of all penguin species, able to reach speeds up to 36 km/h (22 mph).

Cold Climate Adaptations

They are well adapted to frigid, harsh climates.