Meet the Gentoo Penguin

Gentoo penguins are one of the most easily recognizable and widespread species in the Falkland Islands. With their bright orange beaks, white headbands, and long tails that sweep behind them like little streamers, they’re both elegant and endearing. Gentoos belong to the brush-tailed group of penguins, alongside their close relatives, the Adélie and chinstrap penguins.

Gentoo colonies in the Falklands are found inland on open, grassy areas, often far from the sea. They build pebble nests and are known for their loud trumpeting calls and highly social behavior. Walking to and from the ocean in neat little “penguin highways,” they often travel considerable distances each day during the breeding season.

Their diet is varied, depending on the local environment, but in the Falkland Islands, they feed mainly on small fish, squid, and krill. They're strong swimmers—some of the fastest among penguins—and can dive as deep as 200 meters in pursuit of prey, although most of their dives are much shallower.

Gentoo penguins are thriving in the Falklands, with stable and growing populations. Watching them raise their chicks, surf the waves, and waddle along the beaches offers a glimpse into the lively and resilient world of these fascinating seabirds.