Emperor Penguin

Aptenodytes forsteri

The female Emperor Penguin lays her egg on bare ice. Her mate then takes the egg and places it on top of his feet, between his legs. He holds the egg there, protecting it and keeping it warm, for two months until it hatches. He does not eat this entire time but he has fattened up considerably beforehand so that he has enough fat reserves to live on. The female is off feeding while the male watches the egg so that she can be ready for the work of caring for the chick when it hatches.

Look For : A large, tall penguin with a bluish-gray back, a black head with two bright orange spots on the back, and a white chest and belly. These are the largest penguins; adults can weigh 75 pounds.

Length : 48"

Habitat : Ocean, icebergs and floating ice.

Range : Antarctica.