Penguins: A Host of Surprises

One of the most recognizable groups of birds in the world, Penguins offer a host of surprises. Normally associated with the frigid and inhospitable continent of Antarctica, just two species are found only here. Penguins are found throughout sub-Antarctic and even cool-temperate climates, spanning the southern hemisphere from southern South America, southwestern Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, and in multiple remote islands in the southern oceans.

Joe and Mary Ann McDonald provide stunning images of these birds and introduce readers to most penguin species found worldwide—from the largest, the emperor penguin, to the tiny fairy penguin found on the warm beaches of southern Australia. Joe shows how these remarkable birds have conquered habitats few other species dare even visit and establish nesting colonies that may number in the hundreds of thousands.

Readers will discover penguins’ life histories and their peculiarities and gain an appreciation and new understanding of these charming tuxedo-clad birds.