Spheniscus mendiculus

Spheniscus mendiculus, commonly known as the Galápagos penguin, is a small black-and-white bird native to the Galápagos Islands. Unlike most penguins, it lives near the equator, thriving in warm climates. It primarily feeds on fish and small marine creatures, hunting in the surrounding waters. Adapted to its environment, the galápagos penguin has unique behaviors like seeking shade and staying cool during hot days. Its population is small and vulnerable due to habitat disturbance, climate change, and limited range. Conservation efforts are important to protect this rare species, which is the only penguin found north of the equator.