Fiordland Penguin

The Fiordland penguin, known to the Māori as tawaki or pokotiwha, is a medium-sized, crested penguin species endemic to New Zealand. It is distinguished by its striking yellow crest and contrasting black-and-white plumage. Adults grow to about 60 cm in length and weigh between 2 and 5.95 kg, with an average weight of 3.7 kg. The upperparts are a dark bluish-grey, with a darker head, while the underparts remain a crisp white.

Identification Tips

To identify the Fiordland penguin, look for the broad yellow eyebrow-stripe that extends over the eye and down the neck. Unlike its relatives, the erect-crested and Snares penguins, the Fiordland penguin has no bare skin at the base of its bill. This feature, along with its unique yellow crest, makes it easily distinguishable from other crested penguins.

Habitat

The Fiordland penguin nests in colonies hidden among tree roots and rocks within dense temperate coastal forests. These secluded nesting sites provide protection and a degree of insulation from the elements.

Distribution

This species breeds along the south-western coasts of New Zealand's South Island, including Stewart Island/Rakiura and its outlying islands. Fossils suggest a once broader range, extending to the northern end of the South Island, and possibly the North Island. Today, they are confined to less populated areas, with occasional sightings in Australia.

Behaviour

The Fiordland penguin exhibits a brood reduction system, where the first-laid egg is smaller and has a higher mortality rate. Despite the presence of predators, both introduced and native, this penguin has a relatively high breeding success compared to other Eudyptes species.

Breeding

During the breeding season, females lay two eggs, with the second being significantly larger and more viable than the first. This adaptation is thought to increase the likelihood of at least one offspring surviving to fledging.

Similar Species

The Fiordland penguin can be confused with the erect-crested penguin (Eudyptes sclateri) and the Snares penguin (Eudyptes robustus), but the absence of bare skin around the bill and its unique yellow crest are key distinguishing features.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Fiordland penguin primarily consists of cephalopods, particularly arrow squid, followed by crustaceans like krill and a small percentage of fish such as red cod and hoki. The exact composition of their diet may vary between different locations within their range.

Conservation status

The Fiordland penguin is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. The population, estimated at around 2,500 pairs in the 1990s, is likely underestimated and believed to be in decline. Main threats include predation by introduced species like stoats and disturbance by humans, which can cause adults to flee nests, leaving chicks vulnerable.