Body
The emperor penguin, known scientifically as Aptenodytes forsteri, is the tallest and heaviest of all living penguin species, endemic to Antarctica. These birds average 115 cm in length and weigh between 22.7 and 45.4 kg, with males generally being heavier than females. Their appearance is marked by black dorsal feathers sharply contrasted with a white belly, pale-yellow breast, and bright-yellow ear patches. Adapted for a marine life, emperor penguins have wings transformed into stiff, flat flippers suitable for swimming. They are also equipped with a streamlined body and feathers that minimize drag in water. Emperor penguins can dive up to 535 meters and stay submerged for about 20 minutes. Adaptations to their harsh environment include solid bones to reduce barotrauma and specialized haemoglobin to manage low oxygen levels during dives. Their diet primarily consists of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. On land, they can either waddle or slide on their bellies, propelled by their flippers.