Chinstrap penguins, with their distinctive black "chinstrap" markings, are resilient survivors in the harsh Antarctic environment.
These small, spirited birds thrive in icy waters, showcasing remarkable adaptability and social behaviour.
How to identify a chinstrap penguin
Instantly recognisable by the narrow band of black feathers which pass from ear to ear under the chin, the chinstrap penguin has a bluish-black back, crown and tail with a white face and front.
It has amber-coloured eyes and pink feet with black soles. The juveniles are similar to the adults but with dark eyes and the chicks are pale grey.
Where do chinstrap penguins live?
Of the 18 penguin species in the world, only four main species are found in Antarctica – and the Chinstrap penguin is one of them.
Why are they called chinstrap penguins?
The chinstrap’s name is derived from the narrow band of black face feathers running from ear to ear, which resembles the strap of a black helmet.
How tall are chinstrap penguins?
Chinstraps are 68–76cm (26.8–29.9in) tall and weigh 3.2–5.3kg (7.1–11.7lb) depending on time of year and gender.
Chinstrap penguin predators
The eggs and chicks are predated by South Polar Skuas, Southern Giant Petrels and gulls, while the adult birds are targeted mainly by Leopard Seals.
What do chinstrap penguins eat?
Chinstrap penguins eat mainly krill, but also some squid and small fish.
Chinstrap penguin breeding
Chinstrap penguins are extremely social and breed in very large, densely packed, noisy colonies, usually on rocky slopes. They form long-lasting pairs and return to their natal colony and nest site to breed. The males usually arrive first, in October, closely followed by the females.
The nest is made of small stones, which are added to during incubation, and is sometimes lined with feathers and bones. Two eggs are laid a few days apart and incubation is shared by both parents in shifts. If both eggs hatch the two chicks are fed equally.
The chicks are brooded for 3–4 weeks, then small crèches form, allowing both parents to forage. The chicks fledge at around two months old.
How many chinstrap penguins are there?
Around 8 million mature individuals and slowly decreasing.
What are the main threats to chinstrap penguins?
Climate change is the greatest threat to the chinstrap penguin. Global warming affects its food supply, and the increase in rainfall in Antarctica is proving fatal to the chicks, who are not yet waterproof and can die from hypothermia.
Commercial krill fishing and volcanic activity are also significant threats.
What's their conservation status?
Least Concern (IUCN Red List 2020).
Wildlife photographer Ursula Clare Franklin's new book, Mission Penguin, chronicles her journey to capture all 18 penguin species worldwide, from the Galapagos to Antarctica. Available from 24th October, published by Bloomsbury Wildlife.