Little Penguin

Little Penguin

The Little Penguin, also known as the Fairy Penguin, is a small species of penguin that inhabits the southern coasts of Australia and New Zealand, as well as the nearby islands. It is the smallest penguin species in the world, measuring between 33 cm and 43 cm in length and weighing around 1 kg. The Little Penguin's plumage is mostly black and white, with a dark blue-grey back and a white underside. It has a distinct white stripe over each eye, and its face is pale yellow or white. Its wings are adapted for swimming, with short, pointed flippers for propulsion. The Little Penguin is a social animal, forming large colonies that can number in the thousands. These colonies are often located on rocky shorelines, where the penguins can easily access the ocean to hunt for fish and squid. The Little Penguin is a skilled swimmer, able to dive to depths of up to 60 meters and stay underwater for up to 1 minute at a time. Breeding takes place between June and September, with the female laying two eggs in a burrow or crevice on the shore. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs, which hatch after around 35 days. The chicks are fed by both parents and fledge after about 7 weeks. The Little Penguin is a beloved species, with many conservation efforts in place to protect its populations. Threats to the Little Penguin include habitat loss, predation by introduced species such as foxes and feral cats, and oil spills.

Little Penguin, Fairy Penguin, Australia, New Zealand, colonies

— Timothy Lewis