The Chinstrap penguin (Pygoscelis antarcticus) is a species of penguin that inhabits the subantarctic and Antarctic regions. Here’s a description of its distribution:

1. Antarctica: Chinstrap penguins are primarily found on the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands, including the South Shetland Islands and the South Orkney Islands. They breed in large colonies along rocky coastlines and on ice-free terrain, where they build nests out of stones and pebbles.
2. Subantarctic Islands: Chinstrap penguins also inhabit several subantarctic islands, including the South Sandwich Islands, South Georgia, and the South Sandwich Islands. These islands provide important breeding and foraging grounds for Chinstrap penguins during the summer months.

Chinstrap penguins are easily recognizable by the distinctive black band that runs under their chin, giving them their name. They have black backs, white bellies, and thin, black beaks. These penguins feed primarily on krill and other small marine organisms, which they catch by diving underwater.

Chinstrap penguins are well-adapted to life in cold, harsh environments and are known for their agility and speed both in the water and on land. They are also highly social birds, often nesting and foraging in large colonies. Despite their large population size, Chinstrap penguins face threats from climate change, habitat loss, and disturbance from human activities. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their breeding and foraging grounds, including the establishment of marine protected areas and research to monitor population trends.