Watercolor illustration of Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri)

Emperor Penguin

Aptenodytes forsteri

Near Threatened
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
20 years
Length
1.1 m
Weight
40.0 kg
Population
595.0K
Trend
→ Stable
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About

The world's largest penguin, emperor penguins stand up to 1.2 meters and weigh 45 kg, inhabiting the Antarctic continent in some of the most extreme conditions on Earth. They breed in midwinter darkness at temperatures below -60°C, with males incubating single eggs on their feet under a brood pouch for 65 days while females are at sea. Their huddling behavior — cycling individuals through the warm center of thousands-strong groups — is a masterclass in cooperative survival.

Fun Facts

  • Males incubate the egg on their feet for 2 months without eating.
  • They can dive to depths of 565 meters.
  • They huddle together in temperatures of -60C.

Habitat & Distribution

Found across multiple habitat types including temperate broadleaf and mixed forests, temperate coniferous forests, and boreal forests and taiga, among 4 distinct biome types within the Palearctic biogeographic realm. Populations are also found in montane and highland environments at higher elevations.

Found in Norway. Listed as Near Threatened, this species requires ongoing monitoring to prevent population decline.

Diet & Behavior

🥩
Carnivore
Emperor Penguin is classified as carnivore, adapted to its ecological niche.

Diet

🥩 Carnivore
Animal matter 100%

Conservation Status

NT Near Threatened
Estimated Population
595.0K
Population Trend
Stable

Names in Other Languages

Japanese コウテイペンギン
Chinese 帝企鹅
Spanish Pingüino emperador
French Manchot empereur
German Kaiserpinguin
Portuguese pinguim-imperador
Russian Императорский пингвин

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of Emperor Penguin?
The scientific name of Emperor Penguin is Aptenodytes forsteri. It belongs to the genus Aptenodytes.
What is the conservation status of Emperor Penguin?
Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. The population trend is stable.
Where does Emperor Penguin live?
Emperor Penguin is found in Found in Norway. Listed as Near Threatened, this species requires ongoing monitoring to prevent population decline.. Countries include Norway.
What family does Emperor Penguin belong to?
Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) belongs to the genus Aptenodytes, which is part of the taxonomic family Spheniscidae.
What does Emperor Penguin eat?
Emperor Penguin is carnivore. Its diet is adapted to its natural habitat and ecological niche.
How long does Emperor Penguin live?
Emperor Penguin has an average lifespan of approximately 20 years in the wild.
How many Emperor Penguin are left in the wild?
The estimated wild population of Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) is approximately 595,000 individuals.
What kingdom does Emperor Penguin belong to?
Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) belongs to the kingdom Animalia (Animals).

Native Range — 1 Countries

Genus Aptenodytes — 2 Species

🐧
Emperor Penguin
Aptenodytes forsteri
NT
🐧
King Penguin
Aptenodytes patagonicus
LC

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