Magellanic Penguin song and calls

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

Song

Often referred to as a 'braying' or 'donkey-like' call, especially during courtship and territorial defense. This loud, repetitive sound is produced with the bill pointed skyward, often at their burrow entrance. It serves to attract mates and warn rivals.

Calls

In addition to the braying, Magellanic Penguins produce a variety of squawks, growls, and hissing sounds. Hissing is often used as a warning when approached or threatened. Contact calls are also used between mates and between parents and chicks.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, particularly around the colony, during courtship, nest defense, and when feeding chicks. Calls are also heard at sea, but less frequently and usually as contact calls within foraging groups.

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