QUESTION:
Why are there so many penguins on Humble Island vs.
other areas? How do the birds react when scientists remove them
from the rookery? Do the scientists get many injuries in
studying the birds?

                    Elizabeth R., 3rd grade class at
                    Burnley- Moran School in Charlottesville, Va



ANSWER from Steven Downey, Doctoral Student, University of Illinois
            Mon, 3 Mar 1997 11:50:27 -0500

Dear Elizabeth,

Penguins select their rookeries based upon the make up of the land, the
availability of food, and the number of predators nearby.  While there are
large colonies elsewhere, those to which you are referring on Humble Island
happen to fit needs of the penguins better than other island and
continental sites penguins use.

When they can, scientists don't remove birds from rookeries preferring to
study them in their natural habitat.  On those occasions when it is
necessary, penguins behave in much the same manner as any wild animal.
They'll fight to avoid being captured because they don't know if you're
going to pet them or eat them.  (And they would just assume not find out.)

As for being injured while studying penguins, I dare say most of the
injuries suffered in the field are due to the terrain and the weather
rather than the penguins themselves.  As a group, penguins are relatively
tame and very curious little birds.  They generally are only aggressive
when you threaten their territory by getting too close.

Thanks for your question!
Steven D.