Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula, Part IV

The Yellow-eyed Penguin is only found in the southern most areas of coastal New Zealand and is the world’s rarest penguin. Colonies on the mainland are threatened due to nesting habitat destruction (coastal scrub). They are an unusually shy species and will therefore not come ashore if they are harassed or otherwise bothered by humans (i.e. irresponsible tourists) or other perceived predators. We had the opportunity to see them up close via a system of hides and trenches at a penguin reserve on the Peninsula.

Unlike other penguins, the Yellow-eyed Penguin only goes to sea to feed, and seldom goes far from its' breeding site, even outside of nesting season. This one is having a good stretch after a long day at sea.


Penguins usually find comfort in groups while on land, but the Yellow-eyed Penguin is solitary and mated pairs only spend time together at the nest. This penguin is waiting in a safe, sheltered spot for its’ mate to come ashore.


Once the pair is reunited they will head to their nesting site together.


Nesting sites at the reserve are reinforced with wooden roofs for extra safety from introduced predators such as feral cats.