Eudyptes chrysocome

Rockhopper Penguins are known for their distinctive hopping movements over rocky terrain, unlike the waddle of most other penguins. They are highly social and vocal, living in large colonies on rocky, windswept shores. These penguins are agile swimmers, diving to catch krill, squid, and small fish.

They breed on rocky, cliff-lined coasts, where they build nests in small crevices or under tufts of grass to protect their eggs from predators. The breeding season begins in early spring, with both parents sharing incubation duties and chick care.

Distinguished by their red eyes, pink webbed feet, and the striking yellow and black feathers that adorn their heads, Rockhopper Penguins are one of the smaller species, standing about 55 cm tall. Their unique appearance is complemented by their feisty nature.

Historically abundant, Rockhopper Penguins have been subject to extensive study due to their unique ecological behaviors and adaptation strategies. Their populations have served as indicators of ocean health and the impacts of environmental change.

The IUCN lists the Rockhopper Penguin as Vulnerable due to declining populations across their range. Threats include oil spills, overfishing, which depletes their food sources, and climate change affecting their breeding sites. Conservation efforts are aimed at habitat protection and monitoring of their population trends to help prevent further decline.