Yellow-Eyed Penguin

Distribution:

Yellow-Eyed penguins are found in small colonies on the lower E coast of New Zealands South Island, in particular on Otago Peninsula. There are further populations on Stewart, Campbell and Auckland Islands

No subspecies or subtypes are recognized.

Feeding:

Under construction

Reproduction:

Under construction

Magellanic Penguin sitting on egg, Punta Tombo	Magellanic Penguin with chick infront of burrow, Falkland Islands

General Behaviour:

Under construction

Threats:

Under construction

Where To See:

The majority of Yellow-Eyed penguins are protected in reserves where introduced predators are kept under control. Although there are still some penguins on mainland NZ outside of these reserves their numbers are low and visitors should not try to visit these sites as they could disturb these extremely shy birds. The main reserves are on Otago Peninsula. The most visited reserve is probably "Penguin Place". There it is possible to get quite close to numerous artificial nest sites (a bit like little wooden sheds) from a system of covered trenches. Whilst artificial nesting boxes are photographically rather unsatisfying the penguins appear to rather like them and one needs to remember that whilst coastal forests recover it is important to provide a nesting solution for the birds. Also, the nesting boxes can be positioned so that activity on the nest can be viewed easily. Further reserves can be visited and may provide views of birds on natural nests, yet these tend to be further away (e.g. Elm Wildlife Tours or Natures Wonders). A combination of tours is recommendable. Touristic development of penguin breeding sites is one of the main ways that funds can be raised for maintaining forestation and controlling predators.

Yellow-Eyed penguins can also be viewed from a hide near Nugget Point, South of Dunedin, yet no nests can usually be seen.

Magellanic Penguin with chick. Falkland Islands.

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