What is an "Adélie penguin"?

The Adélie penguin is a species of penguin native to Antarctica and surrounding islands. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with a black head, back, and tail, and a white belly. Adélie penguins are excellent swimmers and spend a significant portion of their lives in the water, where they feed on krill and small fish. They breed in large colonies, constructing nests of stones and pebbles. These penguins are well adapted to survive in harsh Antarctic conditions, with thick plumage and a layer of blubber to keep them warm. They have a playful and curious nature, often engaging in sliding and jumping activities on the ice. Adélie penguins are considered an indicator species for studying the health of Antarctic ecosystems due to their sensitivity to environmental changes.