African Penguin
Spheniscus demersus
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Range and habitat:
African penguins are found on the southwestern
coast of Africa and on nearby offshore islands.
Natural diet:
African penguins feed on fish and krill.
Size / weight range:
This species grows to about 27” tall and
will weigh between 2-5 kg (4.5-11 pounds). The black spots on its chest
are unique to each penguin.
Interesting facts:
The African penguin is also known as the
Jackass penguin because of the braying, donkey-like sound it makes. African
penguins nest in burrows on the beach. Pair takes turn incubating. The
pink skin around their eyes is used to regulate body temperature. The
black and white coloring is countershading; the white coloring protects
them from predators that are looking up at them and the black coloring
protects them from predators looking down.
The Toledo Zoo participates in a Species Survival Plan (SSP) in conjunction with other institutions around the country to ensure a healthy and genetically diverse zoo population.
Location at The Toledo Zoo:
Near Tiger Terrace, behind the waterfowl pool.
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