World Penguin Day 2024: 5 Lesser-Known Facts About Penguins 

Penguin Diversity

While many people associate penguins with icy landscapes, not all penguins live in cold climates. Some species, like the Galápagos penguin, inhabit warmer regions near the equator. Penguins can be found in diverse environments, from Antarctica to the Galápagos Islands and even parts of Australia and Africa.

Flippers, Not Wings

Despite their appearance, penguins don't have wings like birds of flight. Instead, their flippers have evolved to serve as powerful and efficient paddles for swimming.

Social Creatures

Penguins are highly social animals and often form large colonies for breeding and nesting. These colonies can range in size from a few dozen to several thousand individuals, depending on the species.

Unique Mating Practices

Penguins are known for their distinct mating habits, which vary among species. For example, Emperor penguins engage in a lengthy courtship dance, while Adélie penguins build nests from pebbles to attract mates.

Survival Strategies

Penguins have evolved various adaptations to survive in their harsh environments. One lesser-known fact is that penguins can drink seawater. Specialised glands located near their eyes filter excess salt from their bloodstream, allowing them to ingest seawater while foraging at sea.