Birdlife
Galápagos penguins
Jennifer encountered and photographed these Galápagos penguins at Bartolomé Island in the Galápagos Islands.
Species overview
The Galápagos penguin is an endemic equatorial penguin. It is a different species from the Adélie, gentoo, and chinstrap penguins Jennifer encountered in Antarctica.
Destinations where they may be seen
Galápagos penguins occur only in the Galápagos archipelago, with important populations in its western islands. Jennifer photographed this pair at Bartolomé Island.
Best viewing considerations
Choose an authorized itinerary that includes suitable shoreline habitat, follow the naturalist guide, and treat every sighting as uncertain. Never block movement between lava and water.
Where Jennifer encountered them
Jennifer encountered and photographed these Galápagos penguins at Bartolomé Island in the Galápagos Islands.
Ethical viewing distance
Galápagos National Park instructs visitors to remain at least two meters from wildlife, including cameras. A naturalist guide may require more space based on the birds' behavior and the site.
Operator or setting
Wild shoreline encounter at a Galápagos National Park visitor site.
Seasonal considerations
Penguin location, feeding activity, breeding, sea conditions, weather, and authorized itineraries vary. A Bartolomé visit does not guarantee penguins.
Photography guidance
Use zoom, remain within the route set by the naturalist guide, avoid flash, and never block a penguin's access between the rocks and water.
Safety and biosecurity guidance
Keep stable footing on lava and near the shore, protect the required wildlife buffer, and follow the naturalist guide and vessel crew.
What is never guaranteed
Penguin presence, number, activity, proximity, landing conditions, and photographs are never guaranteed.
Conservation context
Galápagos National Park monitors the endemic Galápagos penguin. Ocean conditions, food availability, introduced species, disease, and disturbance can affect the population.
Captive-versus-wild disclosure
Captive-versus-wild disclosure: wild encounter.
Gallery, videos, and related reading
Gallery: The verified photograph for this encounter is shown on this page.
Videos: No related BVG video is currently linked to this record.
Related destination: Explore the Galápagos Islands
Related article: No related BVG article is currently published.