Short Article

26-11-2024 | 16:37 PM

African Penguins

The African penguin became the first penguin species in the world to be listed as critically endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Key Highlights 

• Scientific Name: Spheniscus demersus.
• Conservation status : Critically Endangered 
• It is one of the smallest penguin species, commonly referred to as “jackass” penguins due to their donkey-like braying calls. 
• Physical Characteristics: pink patches of skin above their eyes, which are used to regulate body temperature. 
• Habitat: They are primarily found in Namibia and South Africa. 
• Threat: Predators, rising ocean temperatures, food scarcity, habitat loss, diseases, and human disturbances.