Q. What is the primary habitat of Emperor Penguins, recently seen in the news?
Answer:
Pack ice and surrounding marine areas in Antarctica
Notes: Four new emperor penguin colonies were recently discovered in Antarctica through satellite imagery. The Emperor Penguin, Aptenodytes forsteri, is the largest penguin species, inhabiting the Antarctic continent and sub-Antarctic islands. During breeding months (April to November), colonies are found between 66° and 78° south latitude along the Antarctic coastline. These ice-adapted birds have distinct black and white coloring with orange and yellow accents, measure around 120 cm, and weigh approximately 40 kg. They exhibit unique behaviors like huddling for warmth and are capable of diving to depths of 550 meters. Conservation status: Near Threatened.