Eudyptula minor

Little Penguins are social birds, known for their distinctive nightly processions back to their colonies after a day of fishing. They are vocal on land and use a variety of calls to communicate.

These penguins breed in large colonies, with a breeding season that can extend from July to December, depending on their location. They nest in burrows, caves, or under vegetation, often returning to the same site annually.

The smallest species of penguin, the Little Penguin stands around 30 cm tall and weighs approximately 1.5 kg. They have a blue-grey back and a white belly, with flippers adapted for efficient swimming.

Little Penguins have a long history of interaction with humans, from indigenous use of their skins and eggs to modern conservation efforts. Their populations have been affected by introduced predators, habitat loss, and pollution.

While some populations are stable or increasing, others face threats from habitat destruction, introduced predators, and human disturbances. Conservation efforts include predator control, habitat restoration, and research into population dynamics.