Penguins: Spy in the Huddle

Of the 17 types of penguins—an animal that survives in some of the world's most hostile environments—this BBC-aired documentary concerns three breeds: the Emperor penguin, which lives in the frozen wasteland of Antarctica; the Humboldt, which is found near the deserts of Peru; and the Rockhopper, a hardy specimen inhabiting the wind- and sea-swept coast of the Falkland Islands. Penguins are some of "nature's most devoted parents"—returning from the sea to breed, after which both sexes assume responsibility for the welfare of the chick. While one penguin (usually the female) heads out to sea in search of food, the other bird protects the chick in a "brood pouch" (chick snatching attempts by penguins unable to breed or who have lost their chick is not uncommon). When the grown chicks are finally able to go to the sea—the only place they will be fully at home—they face barriers, predators, and obstacles every step of the way. A key element for the group's survival when on land is the "huddle," in which penguins crowd together for warmth and protection (the numerous threats include falling into crevasses, as well as being picked off by sea lions, birds of prey, and—in the case of the desert-dwelling Humboldts—the vampire bat). Using an ingenious robotic device called the "PenguinCam," the filmmakers are able to maneuver among these shy creatures (there is also a chick, rock, and egg cam) in this delightful, visually magnificent documentary that features scenes on land, in the air, and below the sea. An informative, inspiring example of nature photography at its best, this is highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)