Charles the King – I know I’m a magnificent creature, the king of penguins, and a proud ruler of South Georgia. With my striking golden-orange neck and sleek black-and-white plumage, I’m the iconic face of the island and the largest penguin native here too.

The abundant waters provide a feast of fish, squid, and krill. I’m an exceptional swimmer, diving up to 300 metres to hunt for food for up to 10 minutes. During breeding season, my mate and I take turns looking after our precious egg, which is cradled on our feet and kept warm under a flap of skin. We don’t bother with nests like the commoners! Our heir will depend on us for sometimes 13 months until they have their waterproof feathers.

My colony is a symphony of sound and colour, a bustling community of thousands, all calling, shuffling, and preening in unison. We spend all year in our colonies – we’re a tight knit group. Our reigns can last up to 25 years if we avoid some of the seals and orcas.

Despite our challenges—melting ice, shifting food supplies, and human activity—we persevere, thriving in one of the harshest, most awe-inspiring places on Earth. I am a King penguin, a reigning symbol of resilience and the enduring monarch of the island.