crested penguin
bird genus
Also known as: Eudyptes
Quick Summary
The term "crested penguin" refers to birds in the genus Eudyptes, which are characterized by plumes of yellow feathers extending from their bills above their eyes.
Two species commonly fall under this description:
- Erect-crested penguin (Eudyptes sclateri): These are among the largest crested penguins, standing up to 67 cm tall. They breed primarily on the Antipodes and Bounty Islands near New Zealand. Their populations have been declining, leading to an endangered status.1
- Rockhopper penguin: This group was historically considered one species but is now divided into two: the northern rockhopper penguin (E. moseleyi) and the southern rockhopper penguin (E. chrysocome). They are smaller, with red eyes and distinctive black crests. They inhabit subantarctic islands and are classified as endangered (northern) and vulnerable (southern) due to population declines attributed to factors like fishing, climate change, and pollution.2
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