QUESTION:
How did the Adelie penguins get their name?

        From Patricia O., PA

       
ANSWER from Donna Patterson, Research Assistant, Dr. Fraser's Team
            Palmer Station, Antarctica
            Fri, 21 Feb 1997 16:10:33 -0500

Dear Patricia,

Back in 1840, a French explorer named Dumont d'Urville took his ship 
south and discovered the eastern coast of Antarctica.  The coastline 
that they first encountered was named Terre Adelie, in honor of Dumont 
d'Urville's wife, Adele.  Terre is french for land, so they 
were calling the area Adelie Land.  The inhabitants of this coastal 
area were then named Adelie penguins as they were 'discovered' at the 
same time. 

Thanks for your question!
Donna