Habitat:
Drifting sea ice, ice shelves and coastal Antarctic waters

Activity period :
Activity varies depending on season, weather, or human pressure.

Identification and description:
The emperor penguin is the largest penguin species, standing 1.1–1.3 m tall and weighing 22–45 kg, with striking black-and-white plumage, a pale yellow breast and orange patches at the bill’s base. Endemic to Antarctica, it breeds on sea ice during the austral winter, forming vast colonies to shelter from cold and marine predators. Following courtship displays in April–May, the female lays a single egg which she transfers to the male for incubation before returning to sea to feed.

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

Photography tips:
Photograph the emperor penguin early morning or late afternoon using a telephoto lens of ≥400 mm from a low hide at the colony edge. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze its movements on ice and a shallow depth of field to isolate its contrasting plumage. Maintain at least 50 m distance to avoid disturbing the birds.