Little Penguin
NameLittle Penguin
Common NameLittle Penguin
Scientific NameEudyptula minor
FamilySpheniscidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)1100
Plumage DetailsDark blue-grey to slate-blue on the upperparts, head, and flippers, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts from the chin to the undertail. The bill is dark grey, and the eyes are silvery-grey or bluish-grey.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of growls, squawks, and trumpeting calls, especially during breeding season or when disturbed. They can be quite noisy in their colonies at night.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal waters, rocky shores, sandy beaches, burrows
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the coastlines of southern Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand, including many offshore islands.
Identifying FeaturesSmallest penguin species, Blue-grey upperparts, White underparts, Nocturnal on land
Description
The Little Penguin is the smallest species of penguin, characterized by its distinctive blue-grey plumage. These nocturnal birds spend their days foraging in coastal waters and return to burrows on land at night.
