northern rockhopper penguin

The northern rockhopper penguin (Eudyptes moseleyi) is one of two species of crested penguins. These birds are characterized by red eyes, a thin stripe of yellow feathers above each eye, and a crest of black feathers on their head.1

Northern rockhopper penguins are found on islands in the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans, such as the Tristan da Cunha group and St. Paul Island. They are relatively small penguins, standing under 55 cm (22 inches) tall and weighing about 2.5 to 3 kg (5.5 to 6.6 pounds). Their diet consists mainly of krill, supplemented by crustaceans and cephalopods.1

These penguins nest in large colonies, with pairs typically raising one chick per season. They face threats from drift net fishing, competition with commercial fishing, and increased predation by seals, leading to significant population declines and an endangered conservation status.1