Albino chinstrap penguin

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library

Albino chinstrap penguin

Albino chinstrap penguin incubating its eggs on a nest. Albinism is an inherited disorder that results in the lack of an enzyme that controls skin pigmentation. Chinstrap penguins (Pygoscelis antarctica) typically lay two eggs, with both parents taking it in turn to incubate them in shifts of 5-10 days. Chicks and eggs are preyed on by sheathbills and brown skuas. Chinstrap penguins feed mainly on krill and small fish. They inhabit the Antarctic peninsula and nearby islands, and are sometimes found on large icebergs in the open ocean. Photographed on Signy Island, South Orkney Islands, British Antarctic Territory

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6464639

© DOUG ALLAN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Albino Bird British Antarctic Territory Chinstrap Penguin Flight Less Incubating Nest Nesting Pale Parent Rocks Rocky Signy Island South Orkney Albinism Pygoscelis Antarctica

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the rare beauty of an albino chinstrap penguin diligently incubating its precious eggs on a rocky nest. Albinism, a genetic condition causing the absence of skin pigmentation, has bestowed this flightless bird with a striking white plumage that contrasts against the rugged backdrop of Signy Island in the South Orkney Islands. Chinstrap penguins are known to lay two eggs, and both parents share the responsibility of incubation through shifts lasting 5-10 days. However, their nurturing efforts are constantly threatened by cunning sheathbills and brown skuas who prey upon vulnerable chicks and eggs. Despite these challenges, these resilient creatures manage to thrive in their icy habitat by feeding primarily on krill and small fish. The photograph captures not only the delicate balance between life and survival but also highlights the incredible adaptability of chinstrap penguins. These remarkable birds can be found inhabiting not only the Antarctic peninsula and nearby islands but also venturing onto vast icebergs adrift in open ocean waters. Through this image captured on Signy Island within British Antarctic Territory, Science Photo Library invites us into a world where nature's wonders unfold amidst unpigmented rocks. It serves as a reminder that even within seemingly harsh environments, life finds a way to flourish while showcasing its extraordinary diversity.

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