The tiny grey chick has yet to grow its waterproof feathers, and shelters by tucking under his dad’s feet
Samuel Blanc/Solent News
The tiny grey chick has yet to grow its waterproof feathers, and shelters by tucking under his dad’s feet.
The adorable pair are one of around 3,000 pairs of Emperor penguins in their enormous colony which stand close together as temperatures plummet as far as -45C.
Mum and dad take it in turns to guard their chick.
Field guide Samuel Blanc, of St Paul de Varcez, near Grenoble, France, captured some stunning photographs during a 15 month stay at a French research station in Terre Ad lie, Antarctica.
The 36-year-old said: “During the breeding cycle of the penguins, I was with them everyday - depending on the conditions of course.
“In these pictures you can see male penguins and chicks. At this time of year, females are at sea looking for some food for them.
“Until they get their waterproof plumage, young penguins stay at the colony with one adult.”
“The bond is really strong. When chicks are young they always stay with the adult, on their feet or a few centimetres away.
“The adult sometimes reaches down to give the baby some food, or just check it is still okay and safe.”
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