The king penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus) is the second largest species of penguin, smaller than but somewhat similar in appearance to the emperor penguin. King penguins mainly eat lanternfish, squid, and krill.

King penguins are one of only two penguin species that do not build nests. Instead of building a nest, king penguins carry their eggs and young around on their feet during development.

The King Penguin has two subspecies; A. patagonicus patagonicus and A. patagonicus halli.

Aptenodytes ... The genus Aptenodytes contains two extant and one extinct species of penguins, collectively known as the great penguins. [2]

King Penguins are circumpolar birds of the subantarctic zone; although largely absent from the eastern Pacific. They are fish eaters, and tend to keep north of the ice pack, replacing the related Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) in these lower latitudes.

Learn about the king penguin's habitat, diet, lifespan, predators, and key facts. A complete wildlife reference guide to Aptenodytes patagonicus.

The king penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus) is the second‑largest penguin species on Earth, renowned for its striking colorful plumage, remarkable diving abilities, and unique breeding cycle.

What is a king penguin? The king penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus) is the second largest penguin species. King penguins are characterized by their upright posture, long bill, and vivid coloration. They live on Antarctic and subantarctic islands.

King penguins, Falkland Islands. [photo Jeffrey G. Hammond ©] King penguins, Salisbury Plain, South Georgia. [photo Trevor Hardaker ©]

King penguin colonies are found across the subantarctic and Southern Ocean north of 60°S, with large populations on Iles Crozet, Iles Kerguelen and South Georgia. Some colonies have hundreds of thousands of breeding pairs each summer.