Why do penguins huddle? Do a group of penguins have a better chance of survival in the cold than a single penguin?
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Biology Coursework Why do penguins huddle? Do a group of penguins have a better chance of survival in the cold than a single penguin? Introduction The ability to withstand intense cold is one of the penguin's greatest assets. Most penguins have rather small feet, wings and heads. The relatively small surface area in comparison to its volume results in excellent heat conservation. Many penguins, in addition have a think insulating layer of fat under the skin. Their closely aligned veinlarteries enable them to recycle their own body temperature. The emperor penguins, weight about 27-32 kg are the best equipped of all. They have nasal chambers which recover heat loss through breathing. On very cold days, as many as 10 penguins pack into every square metre of a huddle. This helps warm the penguins because they transfer heat between individuals, and also reduce their surface area significantly. On a functional level, huddling cuts...


