The Unique and Amazing Galapagos Penguin
by DIEGO FREIRE
The Galapagos Islands are famous for their extraordinary uniquely adapted animal species, and one of the most unique and surprising inhabitants is unarguably the Galapagos penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus).
Unlike their Antarctic cousins, these penguins thrive in the archipelago’s warm and tropical waters, thanks to the Humboldt and Cromwell cold currents surrounding the islands during the cooler season (June to December) which bring nutrient-rich waters, making it an ideal time for penguins to feed and remain active.
They are expert swimmers, darting through the water at remarkably fast speeds to hunt fish. The prime locations for encountering them in their natural habitats are the western islands of Fernandina, and Isabela; while it is also common to spot a few in Bartolome Island
Here are 5 surprising facts
about the Galapagos penguin
that will allow you to get to
know it better:
Endemic and Unique
This penguin is endemic to the Galapagos Islands and it is the only penguin found north of the equator. It is incredibly special as it is the second-smallest species of penguin after the little penguin (New Zealand).
Singular breeding features
Despite most penguins having seasonal breeding cycles; the good news for visitors to the archipelago is that the Galapagos penguin breeds all year around whenever the conditions are favorable providing chances to observe them any time of the year. Galapagos penguins mate for life and they usually lay two eggs which are incubated by both parents for 38-40 days; though, if both eggs hatch, only one chick is raised by the parents.
Expert in avoiding starvation
Being one of the smallest species of penguins has advantages in the survival journey. The small size of their bodies helps the Galapagos penguins to endure the often periods of food scarcity (especially during the warmer season); as they require fewer calories. Even though most penguin species hunt in groups, the Galapagos penguin usually hunt by themselves or in pairs
Skilled to dodge land and marine predators
While the archipelago is a great place for the Galapagos penguin; they have to continuously keep an eye out for land predators such as hawks, owls, snakes, and even crabs; while in the water, they must escape from sharks, sea lions and fur seals. Their black color on top and white underneath helps them blend in with the sea floor when seen from above and with the sky when seen from below, this camouflage often makes them harder to be seen by their predators.
Fighters to survive climate change
Among the climate threats the Galapagos penguin faces are the drastic shifts in oceanic currents. The Humboldt and Cromwell cold currents bring a lot of nutrients and provide the best chances to find food. While the warm El Niño current and the climate patternknown as ENSO El Niño Southern Oscillation, disrupt the marine ecosystem the Galapagos penguin depend on making it harder to find food and causing its death from starvation. El Niño event of 1982/83 reduced the population of Galapagos penguins in an estimated of 80% and the subsequent El Niño event of 1997/98 reduced it in 65%
Ever since as a kid I first learned
about the Galapagos Islands
and their unique wildlife, one
dream stood out above all
Snorkeling alongside the elusive and unique Galapagos Penguin. Among the giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies, the idea of swimming with penguins in Galapagos, always felt like the ultimate adventure.
My dream came true during an
unforgettable expedition aboard the
First-Class Galaxy Yacht last August.
As our cruise sailed towards the western
islands of the Galapagos, our naturalist
guide told us we were approaching one of
the best spots to see iguanas and….
Penguins — Espinoza Point at Fernandina
Island. A spark of great excitement shot
through me. Could today really be the day?
All of the Galaxy Yacht guests got our wetsuits ready
and after a 2-minute panga (zodiac) ride to the
designated place to do snorkeling, we were ready to
jump into the water.
Suddenly, as I plunged into the crystal-clear waters, there they were! A group of at least 20 playful Galapagos penguins swam gracefully beside me, their sleek black-and-white bodies gliding through the water with ease made my day. I got my GoPro camera ready, and time seemed to slow as I started filming and shared this surreal moment with these unique creatures.
For me, this adventure aboard the Galaxy Yacht was not just about seeing penguins—it was about truly connecting with the unique nature of Galapagos. Cruising the Galapagos on board the ships of the Galagents fleet means you are part of an exclusive journey into one of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth, being surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and top service from a dedicated crew ensuring every moment is special, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
It is not just a trip—it will be a dream fulfilled, a
memory that will remain etched in your heart forever.