Penguins of the Family Aptenodytes are the largest species. The King Penguin and the Emperor Penguin are fairly similar in plumage but differ in size. With 112-115 centimeters, the latter is the largest species of the family.

Both have black and white plumage, and red-orange to yellow patches on head sides and upper breast. They have two-tone bills and black legs and feet. They dive and forage in deep waters and during several minutes. Both have circumpolar distribution.