Yellow-eyed Penguin
NameYellow-eyed Penguin
Common NameYellow-eyed Penguin
Scientific NameMegadyptes antipodes
FamilySpheniscidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)71.5
Weight (g)5750
Plumage DetailsDark slate-grey to brownish-black back and flippers, with a clean white belly. A distinctive pale yellow band of feathers runs from the yellow eyes around the back of the head. The bill is orange-pink, and the feet are pink.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of calls, including a loud, trumpeting call used for communication and territorial defense, as well as softer chirps and growls.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, forest
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Zealand, found on the southeast coast of the South Island, Stewart Island, Auckland Islands, and Campbell Island.
Identifying Featuresyellow eyes, yellow band across head, orange-pink bill, dark grey/brown back, white belly, large size for a penguin
Description
This large penguin is characterized by its distinctive yellow eyes and a yellow band of feathers running from its eyes around the back of its head. It is a shy, solitary species that nests in coastal forests and scrub, foraging for fish and squid in the surrounding waters.
