Adélie Penguin song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Adélie Penguin, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Adélie Penguins do not have a 'song' in the traditional sense. Their vocalizations are primarily calls.

Calls

A variety of harsh, guttural squawks, barks, and trumpeting calls. The most common call is a loud, braying 'kraa-kraa-kraa' used for territorial defense and mate attraction. They also produce softer chirps and growls for communication within the pair or with chicks.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, especially within the bustling colonies. Calls are used for courtship, territorial disputes, chick begging, and alarm.

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