1. Species
  2. Galápagos Penguin

Galápagos Penguin

  1. Species
  2. Galápagos Penguin

Facts

  • Status
    Endangered
  • Population
    fewer than 2000
  • Scientific Name
    Spheniscus mendiculus
  • Weight
    5.5 pounds
  • Length
    19 inches long
  • Habitats
    Oceans

This is the only penguin species found north of the equator and in the Galápagos. 

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Why They Matter

  • This is the only penguin species found north of the equator and in the Galápagos. 

Threats

  • Population fewer than 2000
  • Extinction Risk Endangered
    1. EX
      Extinct

      No reasonable doubt that the last individual has died

    2. EW
      Extinct in the Wild

      Known only to survive in cultivation, in captivity or as a naturalised population

    3. CR
      Critically Endangered

      Facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the Wild

    4. EN
      Endangered

      Facing a high risk of extinction in the Wild

    5. VU
      Vulnerable

      Facing a high risk of extinction in the Wild

    6. NT
      Near Threatened

      Likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future

    7. LC
      Least Concern

      Does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, or Near Threatened

Galápagos penguin

Penguins are threatened by pollution, bycatch and climate change. Introduced species, such as dogs, carry diseases that can spread to penguins as well, and cats pose a threat as predators. Past strong El Niño events have caused mortalities of up to 77 percent, with dramatic declines of prey species and reduced breeding success.

How You Can Help

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