Book 11, Question 18
Why Do Penguins Have Dense Feathers?
Penguins have dense feathers to stay warm and dry in icy water! Their short, stiff feathers are packed tightly, with fluffy ones underneath. The layers trap air close to the skin.
More fun facts
- Most birds have rows of feathers with bare skin in between, but emperor penguins have a dense, even coat.
- Their outer feathers can get even colder than the air, helping keep the body inside warm.
- Penguins can double or triple their swimming speed by releasing tiny air bubbles from their feathers.
- An emperor penguin's old fluffy feathers fall out as new ones grow in underneath.
- Scientists are studying penguin feathers to design warmer, water repelling diving suits.
Sources: National Geographic, National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine
Questions kids ask
How do penguins stay dry?
Their dense coat of feathers repels water, which is why scientists study it for diving suits.