Animal Facts

Unlike humans, penguins never really fall asleep. Because they are often prey for predators such as leopard seals and Galapagos sharks, they have to constantly remain alert and on guard. Therefore, rather than going into a deep slumber like most other animals, penguins take several short naps throughout the day. On average, these naps last only minutes. For added protection, penguins can usually be found sleeping in groups (or rather, a rookery, as a group of penguins is called). These close sleeping arrangements not only provide security, but also supply additional warmth for the already well-insulated bird species.

Penguins usually lie down or stand up when sleeping on land, whereas they float when resting in the water. They often tuck their heads below their wings when they sleep in a standing position. 

Penguins are birds that originate from the Southern Hemisphere. They typically spend a lot of time standing, although they occasionally lie down to sleep. Different species have varying sleeping periods and sleeping methods. Many penguins prefer to take short naps only. Fairy penguins and a few other species go to the shore each night to rest for a few hours in small holes. Other species spend a lot of time at sea, living up to 9 months or more every year without visiting the coast. They have to sleep in the water as they spend most of their time in the ocean.

Penguins have a black-and-white coloration known as counter-shading, which they use to camouflage themselves in the water. Their anatomy is well adapted to life at sea. Their white torso blends well with the bright surface of the water, whereas their inky back merges with the raven darkness below them. This concealment helps them avoid predators as well as catch prey. Their legs are located at the back of their bodies, allowing them to maintain an upright position on land.