African penguins are native to the southwestern coast of Africa and are just one of the 18 species of penguins found throughout the Southern Hemisphere.They stand roughly 18 inches tall and weigh between 6 and 10 lbs. They are a temperate species and are comfortable in a wide range of temperatures, which is why they can live outdoors year-round at the National Aviary. Like all penguins, African penguins cannot fly but are particularly well adapted to a life in the water. They can swim at speeds of up to 15 mph using their small wings as paddles. African penguins were recently listed as an endangered species due primarily to human factors. They are currently at risk due to the effects of overfishing on their food supply, human encroachment onto nesting beaches, and oil pollution. The residents of Penguin Point are part of an important breeding program for this endangered species – which could be extinct in the wild in as little as 10 years without our help. You can help African penguins and learn more about them by visiting the National Aviary!