Aptenodytes patagonicus, known as the King Penguin, inhabits subantarctic islands, thriving in cold coastal regions. Distinguished by striking orange patches on its head and neck, it is the second-largest penguin species. Notable for its social behavior, King Penguins form large, noisy colonies and engage in extended parental care.

Aptenodytes patagonicus, commonly known as the King Penguin, is native to the subantarctic regions. They are primarily found on the subantarctic islands surrounding the Antarctic continent, including but not limited to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Crozet Islands. Their geographical distribution extends to other southern regions such as the Kerguelen Islands, Heard Island, and Macquarie Island.

King Penguins inhabit cold, subantarctic islands characterized by harsh, windy climates. These regions have cold ocean currents and temperatures that generally range from -10°C to 10°C (14°F to 50°F). The islands have rocky beaches and sparse vegetation, consisting mainly of tussock grass and mosses.

King Penguins are adapted to marine environments, spending a significant portion of their lives in the ocean, where they hunt for fish, squid, and krill. They are excellent swimmers, capable of diving to depths of over 300 meters (about 1,000 feet). On land, they breed in large, dense colonies on beaches or flat areas near the coast. Their breeding grounds are usually located on islands that are free from land predators, allowing them to nest on open ground.