Physical Characteristics of Penguins
...temperatures because their short, densely-packed, overlapping feathers (up to 70 per sq. in.) forms a waterproof coat that provides excellent insulation and create a layer of air underneath the feathers. They coat their feathers with oil from a gland near the tail to increase impermeability to water. They also store energy in a thick layer of fat or blubber. They can not fly like most birds, they are very adept at swimming. This is due to their torpedo-shaped bodies and stiff paddle-like flippers. They use their webbed feet in combination with their stubby tails and back like a rudder to steer underwater. The penguin's bones are solid and heavy, which helps them to remain submerged. They can often be seen leaping out of the sea like dolphins. They also h...