The Gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua) is a species of penguin native to the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands, as well as parts of the subantarctic region. Here’s a description of its distribution:

1. Antarctica: Gentoo penguins are primarily found on the Antarctic Peninsula and its nearby islands, including the South Shetland Islands and the South Orkney Islands. They inhabit a variety of coastal habitats, including rocky shores, beaches, and ice-free areas.
2. Subantarctic Islands: Gentoo penguins also inhabit several subantarctic islands, including South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, and the South Sandwich Islands. These islands provide important breeding and foraging grounds for Gentoo penguins during the summer months.

Gentoo penguins are easily recognizable by their distinctive appearance, characterized by a white stripe that extends across their head and neck, contrasting with the black plumage on their back and wings. They have bright orange-red bills and feet, which further distinguish them from other penguin species.

These penguins feed primarily on krill and fish, which they catch by diving underwater. They are known for their agility and speed in the water, using their streamlined bodies and flipper-like wings to propel themselves through the ocean.

Gentoo penguins are social birds, often nesting and foraging in large colonies. They build nests out of pebbles, grass, and other materials, typically in areas with good access to food and suitable nesting sites.

Despite their relatively large population size, Gentoo penguins face threats from climate change, habitat loss, and disturbance from human activities. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their breeding and foraging grounds, including the establishment of marine protected areas and research to monitor population trends.