Question

Which of the following adaptations help the Emperor Penguin survive the cold harsh conditions of Antarctica?

• A. Thick feather coat
• B. Blubber layer
• C. Round body shape
• D. Huddling in large groups

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (C), (D)

The correct options are
A

Thick feather coat

B

Blubber layer

C

Round body shape

D

Huddling in large groups

The penguin has a thick feather coat (it does not have fur) which protects against the cold. The feathers are specially shaped to trap heat. The underside of the skin is coated with a layer of blubber (fat) which reduces heat loss further. The round body shape also reduces the surface area of heat loss.

Emperor Penguins are well known for huddling in big groups. Doing this helps the penguins keep each other warm. Male Emperor Penguins survive the entire Antarctic winter by huddling in huge numbers and they also manage to hatch their eggs this way!