World Penguin Day Date in the current year: April 25, 2024

The date of World Penguin Day hasn't been chosen on a whim. Each year the emperor penguin migrates northwards for breeding purposes. This migration happens in March or April, that is why World Penguin Day is celebrated on April 25.

Although the origin of the holiday is unclear, it is supported by many environmental organizations, including Greenpeace. They use it to promote the necessity of protecting penguins. Although penguins are not considered endangered species, their habitat is being harmed by human activity, that is why it is very important to protect areas which are vital for penguins.

By the way, penguins live almost exclusively in the Southern Hemisphere. However, contrary to a popular misconception, they don't only live in Antarctica. Penguins are also found in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa (remember the penguins of Madagascar?), Peru, Chile, the Galapagos Islands, and the Falkland Islands.

World Penguin Day is a perfect excuse to learn more about these unique creatures. Penguins can't fly, but they are perfectly adapted to swimming underwater. There are between 18 and 20 living penguin species, ranging in size from 13 inches in height (the little penguin) to 48 inches in height (the emperor penguin).

World Penguin Day should not be confused with Penguin Awareness Day which is celebrated on January 20.