Adelie Penguin vs Chinstrap Penguin

Pygoscelis adeliae compared with Pygoscelis antarcticus

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute Adelie Penguin Chinstrap Penguin
Scientific Name Pygoscelis adeliae Pygoscelis antarcticus
Order Sphenisciformes Sphenisciformes
Family Spheniscidae Spheniscidae
Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern
Length
Wingspan 18.9 cm (7.4 in) 20.1 cm (7.9 in)
Weight 5425.0 g (191.36 oz) 4105.833333333333 g (144.83 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 2 2
Population Trend

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

Adelie Penguin only

None

Chinstrap Penguin only

None

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Adelie Penguin

Least Concern

Chinstrap Penguin

About These Birds

Adelie Penguin

Adélie Penguin, 46–71 cm, is a quintessential Antarctic penguin, breeding in large colonies on the Antarctic continent and nearby islands. Classic tuxedo pattern with a distinctive white eye ring. Piscivore and krill feeder; dives to 175 m. Migratory; travels up to 300 km on sea ice to winter grounds.

Chinstrap Penguin

Chinstrap Penguin, 68–76 cm, is named for the thin black line under the chin resembling a helmet strap. Breeds on Antarctic Peninsula and sub-Antarctic islands; among the most abundant penguins. Krill specialist; dives to 70 m. Highly vocal and aggressive at colonies. Partially migratory.

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