Penguins eat small animals from the sea.
The common answer is fish, krill, and squid. The more useful answer is variation. Species, region, season, and prey movement can all change the menu.
Antarctic Adelie penguins are often discussed with krill because krill is a major energy link in the Antarctic food chain. Gentoo, chinstrap, and other penguins may also eat different mixes of fish, krill, and squid depending on where they breed and feed.
In more temperate waters, fish can become especially important. Penguins around southern Africa, South America, New Zealand, and Australia are tied to local currents, fish schools, and fishing pressure.
Penguins find food at sea
The colony is where we see the noise and movement, but the food is mostly offshore.
Adults leave the nest or colony, swim to foraging areas, dive for prey, and return to feed chicks. When feeding trips get longer, chicks wait longer too. That is why sea ice, currents, and prey location can affect breeding success.
For the wider conservation picture, read krill fisheries and penguins. That page explains how fishing, protected areas, and penguin foraging ranges can overlap.
FAQ
Do penguins only eat fish?
No. Many penguins eat fish, but krill, squid, and other small marine animals can also be important.
Do Antarctic penguins all eat krill?
Krill is important, but diet varies by species and location. Antarctic penguins should not all be reduced to one food.
How do penguins catch food?
They dive at sea, using their wings for propulsion and their feet and body for steering.
