Eudyptula – Little penguin

A blue, small wonder of the penguin world

The smallest known penguin species is characterized by slate grey bluish heads and upper parts with fading white underneath with a bit of horizontal posture. Adults average about 25–30 cm (10–12 in) in length & weigh between 1 -1.5 kg (2.2 and 3.3 pounds).

They are endemic to southern Australia and New Zealand, where they breed in burrows in dunes or rocks, caves, under shrubs, or often in man-made breakwaters. Breeding pairs return to the same nests year after year, and some occupy the nest year-round.

Adults go fishing before dawn & arrive after dusk, so they avoid walking in direct sunlight to prevent heat stress and keep cool!