# Iceberg May Have Prevented Emperor Penguins from Breeding Chick numbers in the Coulman Island colony dropped by 69%. - **Source:** [Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories](https://brifing.si/source/8b0f98da-d179-4c93-871f-7ac460bf9c61) - **Published:** 2026-07-24 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/448de8f4-0921-48af-af44-a56a8ac1d5c3 ## Dramatic Decline in Penguin Colony In 2025, the number of chicks in the Coulman Island emperor penguin colony decreased by 69% compared to the previous year, severely impacting their breeding success. ## Impact of the Iceberg Researchers found that a large iceberg grounded near the island between July 2025 and January 2026, restricting the penguins' access to important foraging areas. ## Restricted Foraging Areas The iceberg limited the colony's access to crucial feeding zones, reducing their chances of finding food and lowering breeding success. ## Sea Ice Conditions While overall sea ice conditions appeared favorable, individual iceberg movements negatively affected the penguins' breeding. ## Research Findings The study, published in Communications Earth & Environment, highlighted the impact of iceberg movements on penguin colonies. ## Ecological Implications These findings are crucial for understanding the potential effects of climate change and glacier movements on the Antarctic ecosystem. ## Sources covering this story - https://phys.org/news/2026-07-iceberg-emperor-penguins-coulman-island.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._