Yellow-eyed penguin

The yellow-eyed penguin, known also as hoiho, is a species of penguin endemic to New Zealand. It is the sole extant species in the genus Megadyptes, from Ancient Greek μέγας (mégas), meaning "large", and δύπτης (dúptes), meaning "diver".

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Distribution

Region

New Zealand and Subantarctic Islands

Typical Environment

Breeding occurs along the southeast coast of New Zealand’s South Island (Otago and the Catlins), on Stewart Island/Rakiura, and on the subantarctic Auckland and Campbell Islands. They nest inland from quiet beaches in dense coastal scrub or remnant forest that provides visual seclusion. Foraging is typically over the continental shelf in nearshore and shelf-edge waters. Birds commute daily between nesting sites and offshore feeding grounds, using rocky shorelines and kelp-lined bays.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 150 m

Climate Zone

Temperate

Characteristics

Size62–79 cm

Wing Span80–95 cm

Male Weight5.5 kg

Female Weight5 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The yellow-eyed penguin, or hoiho, is the sole extant member of the genus Megadyptes and one of the rarest penguins in the world. Its Māori name means “noise shouter,” referencing its piercing calls. Unlike many penguins, it nests in secluded coastal forest or scrub rather than in dense colonies. Populations are threatened by habitat loss, introduced predators, disease, and fisheries bycatch.

Gallery

Molting yellow-eyed penguin at Oamaru, New Zealand

Juvenile in The Catlins, New Zealand

A family of yellow-eyed penguin at the Penguin Place Lodge at Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand

Yellow-eyed penguins on Otago Peninsula

Penguin calling at Curio Bay, New Zealand

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

flightless; powerful underwater swimmer using rapid flipper strokes

Social Behavior

More solitary than most penguins, pairs nest out of sight of each other in dense vegetation. Generally monogamous with long-term pair bonds, though re-pairing occurs if partners fail or disappear. Both sexes share incubation of two eggs and chick rearing.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A loud, piercing contact and territorial call that carries far over surf, accompanied by braying and trumpeting displays. Softer grunts and hisses occur at nests and during pair interactions.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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