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The Most Stressful Handoff
Emperor penguin parents must transfer their egg from mom to dad in -40°C weather — if it touches the ice for too long, the embryo dies.
Emperor Penguin
Aptenodytes forsteri
These Antarctic birds have evolved remarkable parental dedication in one of Earth's harshest environments.
Vital Stats
🏷️ TypePenguin (flightless bird)
🌍 Found InAntarctica — breeds on sea ice in winter
📏 Size110-130cm tall, 22-45kg
⏳ Lifespan15-20 years
🔞 Sexual Maturity4-6 years
💕 Mating SystemSerially monogamous — pair for one season
📅 Mating SeasonMarch - April (Antarctic autumn/winter)
🤰 Gestation64 days egg incubation (male only, in -40°C)
👶 Offspring1 egg per year
🍆 Penis Size2 cm
⏱️ Sex Duration10 seconds
🔬 Notable AnatomyMales fast for 115+ days while incubating eggs; females return with food
⚖️ Sexual DimorphismMales slightly larger; similar appearance