A Hoiho is a yellow eyed penguin exclusive to NZ. It is endangered and is one of the world’s rarest species of penguin. It is also the bird in the five dollar note, and the bird of the year for 2019.
Looks like
The Hoiho penguin is covered in feathers. It has a big white patch on its stomach but its head, back and the top of its flippers are black. It has small yellow eyes as its name suggests. Its bill is red, long and slender. It is also a very tall and heavy creature.
Habitat
The Hoiho birds habitat includes four main breeding areas in Banks Peninsula, North Otago, Otago Peninsula and the Catlins. They live in coastal areas, in coastal scrubland and forested areas nearby.
Food/Diet
Hoiho penguins are piscivores, meaning that they only feed on fish. Some types of fish that they eat are: opal fish, silverside, sprat, aruhu and red cod. Feeding is usually done near the bottom, at depths of up to 160m and as far as 50km offshore.
Breeding
Mating happens about, Mid-September/October. Two greenish-white eggs, about 75×55 mm in size, are laid. Both parents take turns to sit on the eggs, which takes about 43 days. November/December: The eggs hatch and the guard stage begins.
Predators
On the mainland, stoats and ferrets are the main predators of chicks, and can completely eliminate a breeding area in a single season! Cats are also seen killing hoiho chicks.
Conclusion
Overall the hoiho penguin is a beautiful unique penguin exclusive to new zealand. Unfortunately though, the hoiho is one of the most endangered animals, with its population being only 1,700. Humans will need to work hard to assist this bird and help it survive in the wild.
References
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