What to do if you come across a Little Penguin along our coastline

Little Penguins breed mostly on offshore islands along our coastline, Eden’s Wheel Cove a newly re-established colony on the mainland has had its 2024-25 breeding season as the most successful to date. This time of year (February to March), little penguins fatten up, to undertake their annual feather moult. This means sitting on land for 2-3 weeks and replacing every feather and are unable to enter the water as they are not waterproof. On occasion they will haul out on the mainland where they are susceptible to predators such as foxes, cats, dogs off leash or near human activity.

If you come across a Little Penguin on the mainland, it will need to be assessed by a trained sea bird rehabilitator by calling WIRES on 1300 094 737.  If they are not responding, call your local NPWS office. If you are in a remote location, and you feel comfortable doing so, you can contain the penguin by placing a towel or blanket over them and placing them in a plastic box for transport at least 30 x 30 x 35 cm, lined with a clean towel, using clean gloves only. 

When transporting penguins ensure they are covered but have airflow and are not exposed to direct sun or hot spaces, no background noise (radio or music playing), ensure domestic pets are nowhere near a penguin, do not put them in the boots of cars or on the back of utility vehicles.

Examples below of moulting Little Penguins at various stages, feathers will appear dishevelled, fluffed and worn.

Article written by Penny Beaver WIRES Seabird Coordinator Far South East Branch.