[The energy metabolism of the Emperor penguin (Aptendodytes patagonica J. F. Miller) in ambient natural conditions].

In natural ambient conditions at Possession Island the resting metabolism of the emancipated King Penguin is 50.40 kcal/kg/D. A bird whose insulation is good and which maintains its stomachic temperature at a high level can reduce its heat production by 42% during the long fasting periods which characterize its reproductive cycle, in particular by social and individual thermoregulating behaviour.