Lykkers, penguins are much more than adorable, tuxedo-wearing birds that waddle across icy landscapes. These flightless creatures have some truly mind-blowing qualities that make them one of nature’s most extraordinary animals.

Let’s dive into some surprising facts about penguins that will make you see them in a whole new light!

Penguins have long been a favorite animal of many, beloved for their charming appearance and unique behaviors. However, there’s much more to these flightless birds than meets the eye. From their impressive underwater abilities to surprising social structures, here are 5 facts about penguins that will definitely surprise you.

1. Penguins Can “Fly” Underwater

While penguins can’t fly in the air like other birds, they are exceptional “flyers” in the water! Their flipper-like wings have evolved to function as powerful paddles, allowing them to glide through the water at impressive speeds of up to 22 miles per hour (35 kilometers per hour). Penguins are known to dive to great depths and travel long distances in search of food, making them incredibly efficient hunters beneath the waves.

2. Penguins Have a Special Adaptation for Cold

Penguins are often associated with cold climates, and for good reason. Their bodies are perfectly adapted to extreme cold, thanks to their thick layer of blubber and dense feathers that trap heat. Penguins’ feathers are so well-developed that they create a waterproof barrier, keeping the cold water away from their skin while allowing them to retain warmth. Some species of penguins, like the Emperor Penguin, can survive temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) in their Antarctic habitat.

3. Penguins Have a Unique “Mating Dance”

Penguins are known for their adorable courtship rituals, and one of the most surprising aspects of their mating behavior is their “mating dance.” During the breeding season, male penguins will present the females with pebbles as a gift to demonstrate their suitability as a mate. The male may also perform a little dance or bow to impress the female. Some penguins even “propose” with a well-polished pebble, with the female accepting the gift as part of their mating ritual.

4. Penguins Are Highly Social Creatures

Despite their solitary image, penguins are actually very social animals. They form large colonies called rookeries, where they come together in massive numbers to breed, molt, and protect each other. Some penguin colonies can number in the hundreds of thousands, especially during the breeding season. These rookeries provide safety in numbers, where penguins can huddle together to stay warm and protect against predators.

5. Penguins Can “Toboggan” on Their Bellies

When it comes to moving across land, penguins have a fun and unique method: they “toboggan”! To move faster across ice and snow, penguins will belly slide, using their flippers to propel themselves forward. This tobogganing method is not only quick but helps them conserve energy when traveling long distances over harsh terrain. It’s a cute sight to see and one of the many quirky behaviors that make penguins so special.

Penguins are far more than just adorable creatures waddling across the ice—they have fascinating abilities and behaviors that set them apart from other animals. From their underwater “flying” skills to their unique social structures and courtship dances, these birds continue to amaze us with their surprising traits.

Next time you think of penguins, remember that these flightless birds are far more dynamic than they first appear!