Sex identification of Humboldt penguins using a morphometric analysis

Primorsky Aquarium keeps a population of 32 Humboldt penguins. The employees Ornithology Department are faced with problem sex identification 18 immature/young Male and female penguins have not significant differences in feather coloration, so reliable by direct observation is possible. most ultrasound genetic methods require special equipment, reagents qualified specialists as well provoke stress that dangerous for the health birds. Sex morphometric parameters captivity birds more preferable, since this procedure non-invasive, does equipment specialists. We performed statistical analysis measurements beak length 3 variations, dorsal part flipper length, weight females males studied group. For first time, we added to from nostril, which was previously taken into account. It has been found use 4 traits simultaneously demonstrate correlation bird, therefore suitable consistent features were length. maximum grouping within study group observed while comparing these characteristics.