Why are emperor penguin population numbers important?
Emperor penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri) breed in colonies on the sea ice that surrounds much of the coast of Antarctica. These colonies can range in size from a few hundred to many thousands of pairs, however, scientists have been unable to estimate the total number of emperor penguins in Antarctica. The colonies generally only exist in the most inaccessible of locations and access during the harshest weather conditions is extremely difficult. In addition, we don’t know where all the colonies are located. Estimates of the total number of penguins range between 200,000 and 400,000 pairs, but changes in the sea ice on which they breed can affect their breeding success and the size of the colony. We therefore need a more accurate assessment of their numbers to help us monitor future penguin population changes, and in particular, their response to climate change.
