Modeling foraging energetics of Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) over-wintering off the western Antarctic Peninsula

Authors: Erik W Chapman^1*, Eileen E Hofmann¹, William R Fraser², Christine A Ribic³, Eric Erdmann⁴

¹Center for Coastal Physical Oceanography, 4111 Monarch Way, Norfolk, VA 23508 USA

²Polar Oceans Research Group, P.O. Box 368, Sheridan, MT 59749 USA

³US Geological Survey Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706

⁴Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706

^*E-mail: chapman@ccpo.odu.edu

A foraging model will be used to explore the energetic requirements of over-wintering Adélie penguins off the western Antarctic Peninsula. Drawing from published information on foraging locations and diets of Adélie penguins during the winter months off the western Antarctic Peninsula, simulations will assess foraging alternatives that allow for over-winter survival and preparation for breeding for this species of penguin. Results will provide insight into the energetic rationale for observed behavior and diet for this species of high-latitude breeding penguin. Implications for Adélie penguin populations under climate warming conditions off the western Antarctic Peninsula will also be assessed.