Gentoo Penguins
(Pygoscelis papua)
Height: 30 to 35 inches (75 to 90 centimeters)
Weight: About 13 lbs (6 kilometers)
Diet: Mostly krill and some fish
Habitat: They live on many of the Antarctic islands, but the main colony is in the Falklands
World Population: 320,000 breeding pairs
Description: Gentoo penguins have a white stripe that goes across their heads from one eye to another; they also have a very bright orange beak. They are the largest members of the stiff-tailed family.
Nesting: Gentoo nests are found on their islands' rocky shores. The nests are roughly circular in shape, and are pretty much made out of any material the Gentoos feel is suitable (though they tend to prefer grass and vegetation). When making nests, Gentoos can be quite agressive. They will fight over and take away nesting material from other penguin's nests.
Breeding: Egg-laying takes place in September or October. The female will lay two eggs, which hatch in about 5 weeks. Incubation takes about 34 days, with both parents sharing incubation duties. After incubation, the chicks stay in the nest for about 30 days. They will then join other chicks in groups called crèches, allowing the parents to go hunt for food).