Which penguin species is commonly called the jackass penguin because of its braying call?

The African penguin is commonly called the jackass penguin because its vocalisation resembles a donkey’s bray.

African penguins breed along the coasts of Namibia and South Africa, making them the only penguin species that breeds in Africa. They are also known as South African penguins. Their range is influenced by the cold Benguela Current, which supports rich marine feeding grounds.

Adults have distinctive black-and-white plumage and pink bare skin around the eyes. The pink patches help regulate body temperature: when the bird is hot, more blood flows through the skin, allowing heat to escape.

The nickname describes the call, not the bird’s appearance or behaviour. African penguins are social and communicate through several calls. Habitat loss, reduced fish stocks, pollution and disturbance have contributed to major population declines, making conservation an important issue for the species.