What Is a Group of Penguins Called?

What is a group of penguins called?

While many birds form flocks or have unique names for their groups, tuxedo-colored penguins don’t fit into these categories. They don’t gather in a flock, murder (like crows), pod, or herd. So, what term should be used when these penguins come together in large numbers?

Penguins make their homes across the globe, residing in places like South Africa, Australia, Chile, Peru, New Zealand, and Antarctica. In this article, we’ll be exploring all of the appropriate names for these versatile birds. Continue reading to discover the correct terminology for referring to a group of penguins.

What Do You Call a Group of Penguins?

A group of penguins is called a waddle, raft, colony, rookery, or crèche. Some of the names refer to young penguins, or adult penguins in a specific location. For instance, a group of penguins on the water is a raft. And a group of young penguins huddling together is a crèche. Sometimes penguins huddle together for warmth, other times it’s for protection against predators.

Waddle

A “waddle” refers to a group of penguins on land. This name is mainly used when they’re walking or moving together. The name perfectly captures the way these flightless birds walk with a side-to-side motion.

Raft

A “raft” is the term used to describe a group of penguins floating together on the water. These social birds frequently form rafts while swimming or resting on the water’s surface.

Colony

A “colony” refers to a larger group of penguins that share a nesting or breeding area. During the breeding season, penguins come together to form colonies for communal nesting and protection. In a fascinating display of courtship, male penguins often offer gifts to females. For instance, it’s common for a male penguin to present a smooth pebble as a token of affection during courtship.

Rookery

A “rookery” is a specialized type of colony, commonly used to describe a breeding site where penguins congregate to build nests and raise their chicks. These rookeries are established during the breeding season, specifically for reproduction and nurturing offspring. Penguins are widely recognized as excellent parents, with both Mom and Dad playing a big role.

Crèche

A “crèche” refers to a gathering of chicks, often without adults, huddling together for warmth and protection. Chicks form crèches to ensure their safety, huddling together both for warmth and defense against predators.

Baby penguins are notably the smallest among bird offspring relative to their parents. For instance, emperor penguin parents, towering at about 4 feet tall, have babies that are only 6 inches in height.

Fun Penguin Facts

Did you know that penguins have a gland near the base of their tail? This gland has the special job of providing the body with waterproof oil. Adult penguins spend time covering their feathers with this oil, especially before taking a dip.

Tuxedo Colors are Camouflage

Another cool thing about penguins is that their famous black and white colors serve a purpose! Their ‘tuxedo’ look acts like camouflage, helping them stay safe from hungry predators. The black part makes them blend in with the dark ocean waters when you’re looking at them from above, and their white bellies are tough to spot when swimming below them.

Penguins Are Streamlined Creatures

Penguins may not soar through the air, but they sure know how to fly underwater. These streamlined creatures have a tapered body, large head, and short neck.

Unlike most birds with hollow bones for flight, penguins have solid bones that minimize buoyancy. Another advantage is their sturdy feet, which not only aid in underwater navigation but also allow them to trek long distances on land. These impressive birds can walk up to 60 miles across sea ice to reach their breeding grounds.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Coldimages