Body
The Galápagos penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus) is a unique species of penguin found on the Galápagos Islands, notable for being the only penguin species that lives north of the equator. These penguins are relatively small, with an average height of 48-50 centimeters and a weight of 2-4 kilograms, making them the second-smallest penguin species. Males are typically larger than females. Their bodies are well-adapted to their environment with black and white plumage that aids in camouflaging and thermal regulation. The back, flippers, and head are predominantly black, while their belly is white, featuring a distinctive white stripe extending from around the eye to the throat. They possess two black bands across the chest, which connect at the back, and their beaks are black on top, fading into pink at the bottom. Juvenile Galápagos penguins have a darker head and lack the distinct chest bands seen in adults. These physical traits not only help them blend into their rocky coastal habitats but also manage the heat from the tropical sun, as their white areas reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption.