Special caracteristics

Penguins are the only non-flying living birds adapted to wing-driven diving. Therefore, its wings have become fins with strongly compressed bones and rigid joints that prevent the independent movement of the bones of the wing. The bones are denser than those of other birds, increasing their resistance to impacts and also increasing the weight of the bird reducing its buoyancy. The legs are located far back in the body, making it difficult to move on land but acting as rudders under water. Penguins are capable of speeds up to 60 km / h, although their normal speed ranges from 5 to 10 km / h. The immersion time increases based on the size of the species, the emperor (Aptenodytes forsteri) being the one with the longest breathing: about 18 minutes. The main oxygen reserves during these periods are not in the form of pulmonary oxygen, but it is captured in the musculature
Penguins are able to retain most of their body heat and this adaptation allows them to inhabit the colder regions. Its plumage consists of three layers, have a layer of fat under the skin and a system of blood vessels specialized in the fins and legs that temper these exposed regions of the body. These adaptations are so effective in conserving heat that species living in temperate regions often overheat, for which they have their own adaptations, such as the presence of areas of bare skin on the face, longer fins and legs acting as Radiators. They also spend most of their time in cold water. Another thermal adaptation is related to size, since temperate species are generally small