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Scientists at Ukraine’s Vernadsky Research Base have unveiled incredible footage of the Antarctic wilderness, filmed entirely by a subantarctic penguin.
By safely mounting a miniature camera and a GPS tracker on the bird’s back, the team has captured a rare, unedited glimpse into the secret underwater lives of these flightless hunters.
The National Antarctic Scientific Center (NANC) of Ukraine released the video to highlight how these birds navigate the freezing Southern Ocean with a level of grace that contradicts their clumsy reputation on land.
MASTERING THE ART OF UNDERWATER FLIGHT
The footage offers a masterclass in marine hydrodynamics. Far from being slowed down by the water, the penguin is seen “flying” through the depths, using its powerful wings in a motion nearly identical to birds in the sky.
One of the most striking moments in the video shows the penguin releasing a stream of air from under its feathers. This isn’t a random occurrence; by creating a coat of tiny bubbles, the penguin reduces water resistance, allowing it to glide with incredible speed to snatch up krill.
Surprisingly, the camera also caught the penguin preening its feathers while submerged. This grooming behaviour is vital for survival, as it helps maintain the bird’s insulation and waterproofing.
In an environment where temperatures remain below freezing, even a minor gap in feather alignment could lead to a life-threatening loss of body heat. The video, which has not been sped up, confirms that these birds are essentially organic torpedoes, capable of reaching speeds of up to 36 kilometres per hour.
DATA FOR A DYING ECOSYSTEM
This research, conducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Polar Institute, serves a critical environmental purpose.
While traditional GPS data tells scientists where penguins go, this footage explains why they choose specific hunting grounds. By understanding how penguins interact with their environment, researchers can better advocate for the protection of Antarctic marine ecosystems.
As climate change and commercial fishing threaten krill populations, the cornerstone of the Antarctic food web, data from these feathered filmmakers is more important than ever. Every dive recorded helps experts map out essential habitats that need protection from human interference.
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