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Insulation with feathers

Emperor penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) chick under parents feet

An emperor penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) chick at guard stage, keeping warm. Keeping warm involves stopping the transfer of heat from one object to another. This can be done by insulating the object. Trapping air in layers is a very effective way of insulating an object. Penguins trap air in their feathers.

Rights: Dr Katja Riedel
Published:21 June 2007Size: 157.76 KB