Humboldt Penguin | 24 Nov 2025

Source: DD

Chile has reclassified the Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus humboldti) as endangered, reflecting growing concern as the species faces a sharp population decline along its Pacific coastline.

• Habitat Range: The Humboldt penguin is found along the coastal regions of Peru and Chile, particularly along the Humboldt Current in the Pacific Ocean, with nearly 80% of the global population occurring along Chile’s coastline.
• Distinct Features: It is recognizable by a white C-shaped band on the head, a black breast band, and a pink fleshy patch around the eyes.
• Diet: Carnivorous, feeding mainly on anchovies, sardines, herring, and small marine organisms.
• Behaviour: Nests in burrows, caves, or guano deposits; does not form large chick crèches unlike many penguin species.
• Conservation Status: Classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN and listed under CITES Appendix I. 
  • The population has been severely impacted by El Niño events, commercial fishing pressure, habitat loss, pollution, bird flu, and climate change, all of which disrupt breeding success and reduce food availability.