The gentoo penguin is the third largest species of penguin behind the emperor and king penguins. These penguins can grow up to three feet tall and weigh almost 20 pounds!

Like other penguins, they have bluish-black plumage on their back with white plumage on their stomachs. However, gentoo penguins are easily distinguished by their bright orange bill, paddle-shaped feet, and impressively long brush-like tail.

There are two subspecies of gentoo penguins that are found on the Antarctic peninsula and the islands in the sub-Antarctic region. They prefer coastal plains with rocky cliffs.

Gentoo penguins prefer mainly crustaceans but will also eat large amounts of fish or squid if the opportunity presents itself. Gentoo penguins are dedicated hunters that will dive up to 450 times a day to find food! Their diet is so high in salt, it can be dangerous to their health. To offset this, gentoo penguins have glands above their eyes that drip saline out of the body.

During the breeding season, thousands of gentoo penguins will congregate together. Male gentoo penguins will offer stones to the females in hopes of creating a lasting bond. Once the female is pregnant, both parents will make a large nest of grass, stones, moss, and feathers. Males are very territorial of their nests and will become aggressive to other males if one tries to steal their stones. Two eggs will be laid during which both parents will incubate them for a little over a month. After about three months, the chicks will be able to hunt and swim on their own.

There are mixed ideas on where the gentoo penguin got its name, however, “gentoo” was a term used by Anglo-Indians to distinguish Hindus from Muslims. This line of thinking makes sense as the white patch on this penguin’s head may resemble a turban.

Besides being the third largest penguin, they are also the fastest. Underwater, these agile swimmers can reach speeds of just over 20 mph, diving at a depth of 650 feet for up to 7 minutes!

Gentoo penguins are also known for their calls as they throw their head back and make trumpeting noises to communicate.