All penguins are black and white

Every penguin, regardless of location or size, is what biologists refer to as "counter-shaded." Their necks, breasts, and bellies are white, and their backs and the tops of their wings are both blacks. Penguins serve as extreme examples of how shading can accomplish many of the biological color functions previously mentioned. One of the most widespread color patterns in the animal kingdom is countershading, which occurs when an object's top side is darker than its lower. Modern penguins' black-and-white plumage is a classic example of countershading: When viewed from above against the dark seafloor, the penguin's black upperparts assist to disguise it, and when viewed from below against the light coming in through the water, the penguin's bright underparts do the same.

Penguins are quite noticeable on land because of their distinctive black-and-white pattern, especially while they are scurrying around on the ice. However, for penguins, giving up stealth on land for concealment in the water makes sense because their color pattern functions as highly effective concealment. Penguin predators like orcas and seals typically swim below them in the water, making it more difficult for them to distinguish between penguins and the water's surface when they glance up. Their black backs are harder to see from above because they resemble the surrounding water.