| Scientific Name: |
Spheniscus demersus |
| Range: |
Southern coast of Africa |
| Habitat: |
The black-footed penguin, also know as
the jackass penguin, lives in colonies on 24 islands between Namibia and
Port Elizabeth, Africa. New colonies have also been established on the
African mainland. African penguins live in warm climates where the land
and water temperature stays relatively constant (approx. 68°F). |
| Natural Diet: |
Fish supplemented with crustaceans. |
| Zoo Diet: |
Fish with additional proteins and
vitamins. |
Physical
Characteristics: |
The penguin has a broad black band about
2.5cm (1 inch) in width that runs in an inverted horseshoe shape on its
chest. Its face has a broader white band on its cheeks. They stand
about 50 cm (20 inches) tall and weigh around 3.5 kg (7.5 lbs). |
| Behavior: |
African penguins are fast, agile
swimmers. They have often been heard making a loud donkey-like braying
noise, this is how they received the name "jackass penguin." |
| Reproduction: |
During the nesting season two eggs are
laid. Incubation takes 33 to 60 days. The male and female take
turns sitting on the eggs in 1 to 3 day shifts. Once the eggs hatch,
both parents care for the young. Chicks become less dependent on
the parents between days 70 to 100. |
| Notes: |
It is a common misconception that
penguins live in cold, icy places. Be it warm or cold, the primary
condition penguins need is a constant temperature. |
