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Fiordland Penguins

Source: Francesco Veronesi

Scientific Name: Eudyptes pachyrynchus

THEY ARE are members of the brush-tailed group of penguins, so-called for their long tail feathers.

Estimated Population:

1,500 - 5,000 breeding pairs

Weight and height:

3.0 kg – 4.5 kg, 55 cm

Lifespan:

10-15 years

Prey/Diet:

Cephalopods, crustaceans, fish

Conservation Status:

Near-Threatened

Source: Shannon Derthick

Population trends:

Decreasing arrow

Distinguishing physical characteristics:

Wide yellow crests on the head narrow to a fine point near the bill. Thin white stripes can sometimes be seen on the cheeks. The bill is heavy and orange-brown in color. Feet and legs are pinkish, eyes are brownish red.

Source: Pooja's Laboratory

Geographic Breeding Range:

New Zealand

Fun Fact:

They have an open ocean habitat. They will spend up to 75% of their lives in the ocean during the winter. As a result barnacles often attach themselves to the penguin’s tail.

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