Penguin colonies are among the most fascinating spectacles of the Southern Hemisphere, offering a glimpse into the lives of these resilient birds thriving in icy landscapes. From the towering cliffs of the Falkland Islands to the expansive breeding grounds of Antarctica, wildlife photographer Ursula Franklin has dedicated over a decade to capturing their unique behaviors, challenges, and triumphs.

The Diverse World of Penguins

While often associated with Antarctica, only two species, the Adélie and emperor penguins, truly call the continent home. The remaining 16 species inhabit various regions, from the Galápagos to New Zealand. Franklin’s photography highlights these incredible habitats and the adaptability of different penguin species.

Unique Penguin Behaviors

Penguins are as diverse in behavior as they are in habitat. Chinstrap penguins are highly social, forming colonies of over 100,000 pairs, while yellow-eyed penguins are solitary and rare. Rockhopper penguins scale steep cliffs, and emperor penguins march up to 120 kilometers inland to reach breeding colonies.

Challenges Facing Penguin Populations

Penguins face numerous threats, including habitat destruction, predation, and the impact of climate change. Franklin’s project sheds light on these challenges while celebrating conservation successes, such as the recovery of king penguin populations after near extinction from commercial exploitation.