penguins only live south of the equator. several different kinds live in and around antarctica. the biggest ones can stand nearly 4 feet (1.2m) tall and can weigh almost 100 pounds (40 kg). the smallest kinds are only about one foot (30 cm) tall. penguins are large birds that swim very well but cannot fly. they have black backs and wings with white fronts. their feathers are very tightly packed and make a thick cover. they also have a layer of woolly down under the feathers. the feathers themselves are coated with a type of oil that makes them waterproof. a thick layer of blubber also keeps them warm. penguins eat fish and are at home in the ocean. they come up on the land or ice to lay their eggs and raise the chicks. they nest together in a huge group.