Habitat:
Rocky coasts, ice floes, subantarctic islands

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Adélie Penguin is an iconic bird of Antarctica, easily recognizable by its black and white plumage and elegant demeanor. Standing about 70 cm tall, it is perfectly adapted to life in the extreme conditions of its icy habitat. This penguin primarily feeds on krill, fish, and small crustaceans, which it skillfully captures in the frigid waters. Adélie Penguin colonies are often very dense, with thousands of individuals gathering during the breeding season. They build their nests with stones and typically lay two eggs. Parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks. Although their population is currently stable, climate change and decreasing food resources pose potential threats to their future.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
When photographing the Adélie Penguin, it's essential to maintain a safe distance of at least 5 m to avoid disturbing these social birds. Use a telephoto lens of 400 mm or more to capture detailed images of their fascinating behavior without getting too close. The best photos are often taken when the penguins are interacting with each other or moving in groups. Take advantage of the natural daylight to get well-lit shots, and be patient to capture unique moments.