Penguin Colonies Humboldt penguins are social animals, living in relatively large colonies, where communication is important. Colonies are beneficial because they provide collective defense against predators. Unlike Antarctic penguins that huddle together in large groups to stay warm, Humboldt penguins have no need to do this because of the warm, temperate climate in which they live. Instead, to warm up or cool down, Humboldt penguins seek the security and comfort of their nesting burrows. Humboldt penguins, like all penguins, are monogamous.
Mated penguins can recognize one another through vocal and visual mechanisms within the colony.
Parents and offspring can also recognize each other easily using sight and sound. Each penguin has a unique voice which allows its mate and offspring to recognize it. Born to Swim Humboldt penguins have a body made to swim. They steer with their feet and tail. Their feathers are stiff and overlap to waterproof and insulate their body.