| Maori names: |
hoiho, takaraka |
| Scientific name: |
Megadyptes antipodes (large southern diver) The yellow-eyed penguin is the only member of the genus Megadyptes and is
possibly the most ancient of all living penguins. |
| Height: |
65 to 85 cm |
| Weight: |
5 to 8 kg |
| Description: |
Male and female are identical in colouring. Adult has pale
yellow eyes and a bright yellow band encircling the head. Juvenile lacks the yellow
headband and the eyes are grey. |
| Food: |
Small fish and squid. Daily journeys to feeding grounds
may take penguins up to 15 km from the shore and to depths of 100 m. |
| Moulting: |
Takes place in March and April and lasts 3-4 weeks.
Penguins are unable to go to sea to feed and may lose 3-4 kg in body weight. |
| Breeding: |
Females breed at 2 to 3 years of age, males breed at 3 to
5 years of age. Two greenish white eggs are laid, size 75 x 54 mm. |
| Life span: |
up to 20 years. |
| Population: |
Recent population estimates have ranged between 900 and
1800 total breeding pairs. In 1990-91 the South Island estimate reached a low of 150
breeding pairs but by 1994-95 had increased to 420. This is not enough to support a long
term population. |
