What Is the Rockhopper's Diet?

The Rockhopper Penguin resides in the sub-Antarctic region and is named as such because of its hopping abilities.The Rockhopper divides its hunting time between the sea and the rocky land where it nests, and its diet illustrates its movement patterns.

  1. Krill and Small Crustaceans

    • The Rockhopper Penguin's main food sources are small euphausiid crustaceans, especially krill, which comprise 60 to 70 percent of the Rockhopper Penguin's diet. According to the Lighthouse Foundation, krill makes up a sizable percentage of the diets for many Antarctic zone-dwelling aquatic species, including the Rockhopper, because of its large abundance in Antarctic waters and its position in the food chain.

    Larger Aquatic Organisms

    • About 10 percent of the Rockhopper's diet consists of fish and squid. Lantern fish are regularly consumed. Since these larger aquatic organisms occupy deeper waters and are not as easy to catch as small crustaceans, they make up only a tiny portion of the Rockhopper's diet.

    Anatomy

    • The Rockhopper's physical anatomy maximizes its hunting abilities. Its strong flippers, straight build and webbed feet help it jet through the water.