At first glance, emperor penguins may seem silent, as they spend much of their time in icy solitude. However, when they gather in large colonies during breeding season, their voices reverberate through the icy landscape. The vocal repertoire of emperor penguins is diverse, ranging from hauntingly low-pitched rumblings to vibrant, trumpeting calls that echo across the ice.
The most recognized sound of emperor penguins is their "display call." During courtship rituals, males gather in large groups, each one eager to attract a suitable partner. As part of their elaborate performance, males stretch their necks towards the sky, tilt their heads back, and emit a resounding trumpet-like call that resonates for miles. This call acts as an auditory beacon, allowing females to identify their chosen mates amidst the throngs of black and white plumage.
Emperor penguins also produce a variety of softer, more intimate calls when interacting with their chicks. These vocalizations help establish and maintain the crucial bond between parents and offspring in the harsh Antarctic environment. The calls, ranging from gentle cooing to rhythmic trills, convey a sense of reassurance and familiarity, ensuring the chicks feel secure within the warmth of the huddled groups.
The “threat call” is the simplest and is used to defend a territory and warn other colony members of predators.
The emperor penguin population of Antarctica is in significant danger due to diminishing sea ice levels. The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the penguins as "near threatened”.