Fetching Mascot Data... Hang tight! 🐾
Fetching Mascot Data... Hang tight! 🐾
107 schools use the "Penguins" mascot.
Most common states: California (11), Pennsylvania (9), Michigan (8)
Reviewed by MascotFinder Research Team
Quarterly accuracy check across mascot insights
Data source: MascotFinder School DB · Refreshed regularly
When it comes to school mascots, you might not expect to see penguins, but they are actually quite popular, especially in certain parts of the USA. The penguin mascot, with its irresistibly cute waddle and tuxedo-like feathers, is used by 107 schools across the country. One of the most notable penguin mascots is from Youngstown State University in Ohio, which is the only NCAA Division I school with this unique nickname. The story behind it is pretty cool: the first penguin mascot, named Pete, was even brought back from Antarctica by an explorer. In elementary, middle, and high schools, penguin mascots often symbolize agility, teamwork, and a touch of fun. They are particularly beloved in Montana, where they are the most popular mascot per capita. So next time you hear about a school with a penguin mascot, remember they're not just cute; they're also symbols of school spirit and community pride. 🐧🐦
Hear how the Penguins fuels school spirit across the MascotFinder community.
“We count 11 programs flying the Penguins banner across California. It is the spark that fills the stands every Friday night.”
Avery Singh
California Booster Council
“Per capita, no one rallies like Montana. With 2 schools per million residents, the Penguins is part of daily conversations here.”
Avery Hughes
Montana Local Sports Desk
“Students tell us the Penguins delivers the perfect animal energy—easy to chant, easy to rally behind, and instantly recognizable on social clips.”
Riley Patel
Regional Pep Collective
Quick answers based on school counts, state coverage, and classification data in our mascot database.
107 schools in our database use the Penguins mascot across 36 states.
The Penguins shows up most in California (11), Pennsylvania (9), and Michigan (8). Mt also has the strongest per-capita concentration of this mascot.
Schools classify the Penguins as a Animal and Bird mascot. Programs note that it is often described as cute.
Elementary programs adopt the Penguins most often (66 schools). Other (25) and High School (11) also feature this mascot.