About the Royal Penguin

The Royal penguin (Eudyptes schlegeli) is a species of penguin found predominantly on Macquarie Island, which is located between New Zealand and Antarctica.

Royal penguins are notable for their distinctive yellow crests, which extend from their forehead to the back of their head. They have a white face and chin, which differentiates them from the similar-looking macaroni penguin, which has a black face.

Royal penguins are a fascinating species, distinguished by their striking appearance and unique behaviours, making them an interesting subject for both researchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Most Royal penguins belong to a single large colony found on Macquarie Island.

Macquarie Island, their primary habitat, is a protected area, which helps in conserving their population. As of now, royal penguins are classified as "Near Threatened" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The main threats to royal penguins include climate change, which affects their food supply, and human activities such as fishing and pollution.

Where to see Royal Penguins

Primarily found on Macquarie Island, especially during their breeding season.

Interesting facts about Royal Penguins

Like other penguins, royal penguins go through an annual moult where they shed their old feathers and grow new ones. This process is critical for maintaining their waterproof and insulated plumage.

They are highly social birds and often engage in various vocalisations and physical displays to communicate with each other, especially during the breeding season.

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