Galapagos Penguins

Galapagos Penguins

By: Chloe Thomas & Leah Hess

Spheniscus MendiculusWorld's 3rd smallest penguinBlack & WhiteHeight: 50cmWeight: 4.8-6 lbs.Life expectancy: 15-20 yearsDark feet & slender bill

Biotic factors:TreesLizardsTortoisesHawksShrubsCrabs

Abiotic factors:AirTemperatureSunlightWaterSoil

It raises its flippers, panting, and seeking shade to keep cool.

1971- 3,4002007- 1,500Population decreased in 1982-1983 & 1997-1998 because of over fishing from ENSO and El Niño decreased the population by 77%. The population then entered a stable growth period where it was only 48% lower than pre- Niño population. El Niño made the waters colder and it was hard for most of the Penguins to adapt.

Population

Endangerment

They have been endangered due to bad weather conditions, parasites, contracting diseases, oil spills, fishing nets, over fishing, they don't adapt to sudden changes well, and they're small size makes them an easy target for predators. They have been endangered since the 1970's.

Recovery

Many organizations have tried to save the Galápagos penguins, such as New England Aquarium, Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at the Unviersity of Oxford, and U.S. Fish and wildlife service. They built new nests to rebuild the population. If we stop over fishing and polluting the ocean the population will increase greatly.

Reward

Galápagos penguins are the only penguins above the equator.