About the Southern Rockhopper Penguin

The Southern Rockhopper Penguin (Eudyptes chrysocome) is another captivating penguin species known for its energetic demeanour and distinctive appearance.

Similar to their northern cousins, Southern Rockhoppers have a prominent yellow crest that extends from above their eyes. Their red eyes and orange beak further add to their distinctive look. Their crests tend to be slightly shorter and less spiky than those of the Northern Rockhopper.

They favour rocky shorelines and cliffs for nesting, often in large, noisy colonies.

Southern Rockhopper penguins are among the most numerous on the planet, but their population is at risk.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the Southern Rockhopper penguin as vulnerable.

Rockhopper penguin populations have been declining, mainly due to climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction.

Southern Rockhopper Penguin Photography

Southern Rockhopper Penguin Portrait

Southern Rockhopper

Southern Rockhopper Penguin Portrait

Jamie Lafferty

Southern Rockhopper Penguin 2 892 Jamie Lafferty

Animation

Putting on an animated display.

Jamie Lafferty

Southern Rockhopper Penguin 1 890 Jamie Lafferty

Blowing in the wind

A Southern Rockhopper having a bad hair day.

Jamie Lafferty

Southern Rockhopper Penguin 9 898 Jamie Lafferty

Distinct eyes

A close up of a Southern Rockhopper and it's beautiful colouration.

Where to see Southern Rockhopper Penguins

Southern Rockhopper Penguins are found on sub-Antarctic islands in the South Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. Key breeding sites include the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and islands around New Zealand.

Interesting facts about Southern Rockhopper Penguins

The name "Rockhopper" comes from their unique ability to hop across rocky terrain. Unlike other penguins that waddle or slide on their bellies, Rockhoppers use their strong legs to jump between rocks and cliffs.

The Rockhopper's yellow "eyebrow" is called a "supercilium."

Although they are one of the smallest penguin species, standing only 45–55 cm tall, they are known for their feisty and aggressive behaviour. They have been observed chasing off much larger birds and animals that encroach on their territory.

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