King Penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus)

     King penguins are the second largest species of penguins, below the emperor penguin. They can grow up to 35 inches high and weigh around 24 to 35 pounds. In captivity, king penguins can survive up to 30 years. King penguins have 4 layers of feathers; the outer layer is waterproof and oiled, the chicks do not have this layer until they grow adult plumage, and the inner 3 layers provide good prevention of losing internal heat. They have orange/yellow marking on the both sides of the head and the lower beak. Ever September, they come on shore to molt and breed, making their plumage not waterproof so they cannot go into see searching for food. King penguin can drink salt water because of their supraorbital glandthat removes the excess salt through the nose of the penguin. Scientist are least concern about king penguins becoming extinct.

     King penguins live in groups that consist of a thousand birds. They live in the sub-Antarctic islands in icy, snowy, and rocky areas.  

     King penguins dive over 350 ft to find a delicious dinner of lantern fish, krill, and other crustaceans.