Gentoo Penguin:
Sphen, the famous gentoo penguin known for his same-sex partnership with Magic, has died at the age of 11 in Australia.
- Scientific name: Pygoscelis papua
- It is found exclusively in the Southern Hemisphere, primarily between 45° and 65° south latitude.
- It inhabits the Antarctic Peninsula and several sub-Antarctic islands, with a significant population on the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic Ocean.
- It is notable for the two white wedges around their eyes, connected by a line across the head, which distinguish them from other penguin species.
- Their heads are mostly black, adorned with small flecks of white feathers.
- It is typically found along shorelines, which enables the Penguins to quickly access food sources while staying close to their nests.
- They use a range of vocalisations, from honks to brays, which help partners identify each other within the colony.
- Conservation status: This species is classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population.
