Behavior of the Adélie Penguin Chick

Previous studies have shown that chicks of the In the first summer ( 1967-68), observations were Ad&lie Penguin (Pygoscelis adeliue) are semi-made until the chicks departed for sea, but in sub- altricial when they hatch (Nice 1962, Reid sequent summers observations were terminated just 1965, Reid and Bailey 1966).At first they are before chick departure.In the summer of 1968-69, unable to leave the nest and require a great individual chicks were observed for periods of 10 min at intervals of approximately 5 days.In 1969-70 and deal of parental care.The chicks are covered 1970-71, nests were checked daily but with no set in down at hatching, but their body tempera-observation period.ture is not regulated completely until about 15 days of age ( Sapin-Jaloustre and Bourli' ere BACKGROUND AND DEFINITIONS 1951, Goldsmith and Sladen 1961).Their Most parents hatch two chicks about 1.4 days growth rate approximates a truncated normal apart (Taylor 1962, Spurr 1972).The period curve ( Sapin-Jaloustre and Bourli' ere 1951, during which parents care for their chicks can Sapin-Jaloustre 1955, Sladen 1958, Taylor and be divided into a guard stage and a creche Roberts 1962).For the first few days little or post-guard stage.The term creche is meant or no weight may be gained; in fact, some to imply simply a collection of young.There chicks are not fed until 3 days old.With reg-are no "guardians" of the creche (Sladen ular feeding, however, chicks show a rapid, 1958).