Nature Feature - Yellow-Eyed Penguin

The Yellow-Eyed Penguin

With and estimated population of 5,000, the yellow-eyed penguin is one of the world's rarest penguins. Growing to 60 centimeters in height, it is the largest of New Zealands five native species of penguin but is not closely related to any other penguin species.

Sedentary by nature, the yellow-eyed penguin is found only in the south-eastern coastal region of the South Island mainland, on Stewart Island and the sub-antarctic Auckland and Campbell islands.

The loss of natural breeding habitats has largely been responsible for the serious population decline, with clearing of forest and scrub land, disturbance by man and grazing animals, and introduced predators such as cats and ferrets all threatening the continued existence of this timid, isolated nester on the mainland. Predators also exist on most of the bird's island habitats.

The viability of small, isolated populations is also affected by sudden changes in food supply caused by climatic and seasonal ocean conditions.

Great concern for the plight of the yellow-eyed penguin is being shown by a wide range of organisations and individuals. Their work, especially in the protection of habitat, may avert the extinction of the species.

Source:
Information sheet accompanying the 1988 New Zealand Proof Set - New Zealand Treasury, 1988.

The Yellow-Eyed Penguin is featured on the following New Zealand coin:

1988 $1.