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Scientific Name: |
Spheniscus demersus
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Range: |
Southern coast of Africa
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Habitat: |
The black-footed penguin, also know as the jackass penguin, lives in colonies on 24 islands between Namibia and Port Elizabeth, Africa. New colonies have also been established on the African mainland. African penguins live in warm climates where the land
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Natural Diet: |
Fish supplemented with crustaceans.
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Zoo Diet: |
Fish with additional proteins and vitamins.
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Physical
Characteristics:
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The penguin has a broad black band about 2.5cm (1 inch) in width that runs in an inverted horseshoe shape on its chest. Its face has a broader white band on its cheeks. They stand about 50 cm (20 inches) tall and weigh around 3.5 kg (7.5 lbs).
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Behavior: |
African penguins are fast, agile swimmers. They have often been heard making a loud donkey-like braying noise, this is how they received the name "jackass penguin."
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Reproduction: |
During the nesting season two eggs are laid. Incubation takes 33 to 60 days. The male and female take turns sitting on the eggs in 1 to 3 day shifts. Once the eggs hatch, both parents care for the young. Chicks become less dependent on the parents between days 70 to 100.
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Notes:
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It is a common misconception that penguins live in cold, icy places. Be it warm or cold, the primary condition penguins need is a constant temperature.
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