What’s black, white, and smaller than a loaf of bread? The adorable Kororā, also known as little blue penguins, right here in Wellington! You might be surprised to find these charming creatures in our bustling capital city. Wellington is actually the only capital city in the world to call these little penguins residents!
Now, these little guys are nocturnal, so you’re more likely to spot them near their burrows at dusk and dawn. They’re always on the move, scurrying between the ocean and their nests, especially during breeding season from July to October. Imagine being a little penguin parent, braving the waters to find food for yourself and your fluffy chicks. It’s a tough job, made even tougher by recent changes in their environment.
Did you know that warming seas and frequent storms are pushing the Kororā’s food source further out to sea? This means longer journeys for tired penguin parents and a risk of exhaustion or even predation. Thankfully, organizations like Forest & Bird are working tirelessly to protect these little birds, setting up nest boxes and managing predators along Wellington’s coast. So, next time you’re strolling along our beautiful coastline, especially at dawn or dusk, keep an eye out for these delightful little penguins. You might just catch a glimpse of them darting between the waves or waddling back to their nests.