Scientists name first new penguin species in over 100 years

A new gentoo penguin species, Pygoscelis kerguelensis, was identified on the remote Kerguelen Islands — the first new penguin species named in more than 100 years. Whole-genome analysis of 64 penguins from 10 colonies showed gentoos comprise four distinct species that diverged 300,000–500,000 years ago.

• New species Pygoscelis kerguelensis lives on the Kerguelen Islands
• Whole genomes of 64 penguins from 10 colonies confirmed four species instead of one
• The four species diverged 300,000–500,000 years ago due to island isolation
• Three sub-Antarctic gentoo species may be vulnerable to warming