Bird Guide

Chinstrap Penguin

Pygoscelis antarcticus

Least ConcernInvertebratesMarineScrapeHuge · 4.1 kg

About the Chinstrap Penguin

The chinstrap penguin is a penguin species that inhabits various islands and shores in the Southern Pacific and the Antarctic Oceans. Its name stems from the narrow black band under its head, which makes it appear to wear a black helmet. Other common names include ringed penguin, bearded penguin, and stonecracker penguin. It is known for its loud, harsh call.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

The chinstrap penguin grows to a length of 68–76 cm (27–30 in) and a weight of 3.2–5.3 kg (7.1–11.7 lb), varying with the time of year. Males are greater in weight and height than females. The adult chinstrap's flippers are black with a white edge; the inner sides are white. The face is white, extending behind the eyes, which are reddish brown; the chin and throat are white, as well, while the short bill is black. The strong legs and the webbed feet are pink. Its short, stumpy legs give it a distinct waddle when it walks.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

What the Chinstrap Penguin sounds like

Recording: steve · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via xeno-canto

Where the Chinstrap Penguin lives

Regular rangeRare visitor

Recorded as a rare visitor in United Kingdom, Australia, Argentina, Norway, Chile.

When to see the Chinstrap Penguin

Peak activity in January · a summer visitor species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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