Emperor Penguin Facts for Kids | Penguins Information. The emperor penguin is the largest of 17 species of penguin at 1.15 m (45 in.) tall. It is also the only animal to inhabit the open ice of Antarctica during the winter. They face wind chills as cold as -60°C (-76°F) and blizzards of 200 km/h (124 mph). Despite such harsh conditions, emperor penguins spend their entire lives on the ice or in the surrounding waters of Antarctica. To survive in this severely frigid climate, emperor penguins are equipped with several special adaptations.
Four layers of scale-like feathers protect them from icy winds and provide a waterproof coat. The penguins can store large amounts of fat which insulates their bodies while also serving as a long-lasting energy source. They have small bills and flippers, which helps to conserve heat, and special nasal chambers that minimize the heat normally emitted through exhalation. Emperor penguins are also specially adapted to traveling in this extreme habitat. Conservation Status What You Can Do to Help About the Author. Penguins for Kids: Learn about these swimming birds. Back to Animals Penguins are one of the most beloved animals in the world. Penguins are found in many areas in the southern hemisphere. Most people think of penguins as living in very cold climates like the icy continent of Antarctica, but they also live in more temperate areas like the Galapagos Islands, Australia, and South Africa.
Penguins are very funny animals. Penguins Don't Fly, They Swim Penguins love to swim in the ice cold ocean water. Types of Penguins There are several different types of penguins including the Rockhopper, Macaroni, Adelie, Gentoo, Chinstrap, Emperor, King, and the Little Penguin. Here is a brief description of some of the different types of penguins: Adelie Penguin - This penguin is short, but wide. Penguins all have a similar shape. What do they eat? Penguins mostly eat fish. Penguin Parents Some penguins mate for life, while others mate for a season. Cool Facts About Penguins They can drink saltwater. Emperor Penguins For more about birds: Back to Birds. Fun Penguin Facts for Kids - Emperor, King, Chinstrap Penguins & More! Emperor Penguin Facts and Pictures. Penguin Facts.