© Chris McCann / WWF-US
Galápagos penguins
This is the only penguin species found north of the equator and in the Galápagos.
Galápagos penguin facts
- Status View status categories and descriptions
- Endangered
- Population
- Fewer than 2,000
- Scientific name
- Spheniscus mendiculus
- Weight
- 5.5 pounds
- Length
- 19 inches
- Habitats
- Oceans
Why Galápagos penguins matter
© Alfie Photography
This is the only penguin species found north of the equator and in the Galápagos.
Threats
© Jenny Leonard
Penguins are threatened by pollution, bycatch and climate change. Introduced species, such as dogs, carry diseases that can spread to penguins as well, and cats pose a threat as predators. Past strong El Niño events have caused mortalities of up to 77 percent, with dramatic declines of prey species and reduced breeding success.
How you can help
© George Walsh
Strengthen the Endangered Species Act
More than 99% of the species listed under the Endangered Species Act have avoided extinction due to the law’s protections. Today, those protections are under threat — at the exact moment wildlife needs them most.