The four penguins in Madagascar are Skipper, Kowalski, Rico, and Private). They are a group of commando-like penguins who perform various missions to protect their home in the Central Park Zoo. Each penguin has their own individual personality and unique traits that they use to complete their missions). Skipper is the leader of the group, Kowalski is the brains, Rico is the loose cannon, and Private is the youngest member of the group.