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Emperor Penguins have many adaptations for movement and the conservation
of heat in the brisk cold. Movement through the water is
important, since their sources of food thrive there. Penguins evolved
from flying birds and eventually lost the ability to fly. This is
due to the fact that Antarctica is an isolated region, where flight is
unnecessary for movement. Their wings are adapted for life in the
water. Compared to other birds' wings, they are narrower, stiffer, and flatter. This
helps them to swim efficiently in the sea when they look for food.
Penguins also have streamlined bodies used for efficient swimming. When
they need to shoot through the water quickly, they tuck their head into
their neck. Their legs, feet, and tail help them to steer towards
their prey.
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Penguins also need a way to move around on land. There are three basic
movements for this purpose: Waddling, hopping, and tobogganing.
Their feet are webbed and clawed for grasping ice and rock. Since
Emperor Penguins have short legs, they waddle, which is moving side to
side between steps. Hopping is similar to a how a kangaroo hops, and
they use this instead of walking. While on the journey to the breeding
grounds or to find food, penguins often become exhausted, and must use
tobogganing. This occurs when they lie on their bellies and push
themselves across land using their wings. This method saves a lot of
energy, and helps them regain their strength to continue on their long
excursion. |
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Penguins
waddling on the ice
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There are two adaptations used for conserving and regulating heat in the
penguin's body. Feathers help keep the penguin warm since their feathers
are covered in oil, making them waterproof. Also, they tuck their flippers
close to their body and shiver to create heat. Another
adaptation they have includes a
fat layer that improves the penguin's insulation in the cold water. The
dark layer on their back and head absorbs heat. Also, male penguins huddle
close together to conserve heat while incubating. |
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