Emperor penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri) spend their lives in arguably the most extreme conditions in the Antarctic. To conserve heat while on land, they have a strong tail protected by insulation and stiff feathers that they can use as a kickstand or tripod! These penguins rock back on their “heels” to reduce the surface area exposed to ice or snow on the ground.

Happy World Penguin Day!

Sketch and fact contributed by Karli Chudeau

[Edited by Adrian Perez]