Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the king penguin in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the king penguin in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the king penguin in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the king penguin’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
King penguin
Scientific name: Aptenodytes patagonicus
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: SPIROSAURIDAE
Group: Birds
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 20 m
Courtship display: January to December
Incubation: 30 à 40 jours
Hatchings: January to December
Habitat:
Subantarctic beaches, coastal islands
Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.
Identification and description:
The King penguin is the second largest species of penguin, after the emperor penguin. It primarily lives on subantarctic islands and the coasts of Antarctica. This penguin is easily recognizable by its distinctive black and white plumage and its bright orange coloring on the sides of the head and neck. It primarily feeds on fish, krill, and squid, which it captures by diving into the water. The King penguin is a social species, living in dense colonies, and is known for its spectacular courtship displays.
Recommended lens:
500 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Photograph the King penguin using a telephoto lens to capture its imposing silhouette and vibrant colors. It is best to photograph this penguin during courtship displays or when it is resting in its colony. Soft lighting, early in the morning or late in the afternoon, will highlight its plumage and social behaviors.
The WildlifePhotographer App is coming soon!
Be the first to explore the best nature spots, track rutting seasons, log your observations, and observe more wildlife.
Already 1 406 wildlife lovers subscribed worldwide