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Behavioral insights into the Galapagos Penguin Spheniscus mendiculus: A day in his life—an ethological portrait.
Citation
Cueva, J., Iñiguez, W., Marshall, G., Sevilla, C., Coloma, A., Venegas, L., & Jiménez-Uzcátegui, G. (2026). Behavioral insights into the Galapagos Penguin Spheniscus mendiculus: A day in his life—an ethological portrait.
Marine Ornithology, 54(1),
177-183.
http://doi.org/10.5038/2074-1235.54.1.1691
Received 1 August 2025, accepted 21 November 2025
Date Published: 2026/04/15
Date Online: 2026/04/25
Key words: behaviors, Crittercam, ethology, foraging ecology, Sphenisciformes
Abstract
The Galapagos Penguin Spheniscus mendiculus, endemic to the Galápagos Archipelago, faces increasing ecological pressures threatening its population. This study aimed to characterize its daily behavioral patterns to better understand its adaptations and vulnerability to ecosystem changes. In one breeding locality, the Marielas Islets, we mounted a Crittercam on a male penguin to assess interactions with its mate and its behavior over a 24-hr period. Behaviors were classified as Diving, Foraging, Grooming, Intraspecific Interaction, Interspecific Interaction, Loafing, Prospecting, Resting, Surface Dipping, and Swimming. We analyzed behavioral data using chi-square tests and transition heat-maps. Results revealed predominantly surface behaviors—Prospecting (41.2% of observed time) and Surface Dipping (38.4%)—with deep diving and socializing being rare (< 10%). Significant behavioral transitions (P < .001) included a strong association between Swimming and Diving, suggesting a structured foraging strategy. Activity durations varied diurnally, with peak surface behaviors occurring during daylight. These patterns indicate behavioral adaptation to prey availability. Although we had data from just one individual, the low frequency of deep diving was unexpected and contrasts with findings for other penguin species. Our findings provide insight into factors affecting foraging success for the Galapagos Penguin. We recommend expanded monitoring with a larger sample of Crittercams to evaluate behavioral patterns that could facilitate conservation strategies.
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