Penguins and Icebergs Socks

The scientific name of the fairy penguin (or little penguin) Eudyptula minor, is most descriptive. Not only is it the smallest of all penguins, but also the Greek word 'Eudyptula' means 'good little diver'. This flightless seabird breeds in colonies along the southern coast of Australia, as far north as Port Stephens in the east to Fremantle in the west. Subspecies are also found in New Zealand.

Very little is known about their populations. However, Tasmanian estimates range from 110 000–190 000 breeding pairs of which less than 5% are found on mainland Tasmania, where ever-increasing human pressure will probably result in their extinction. The most abundant populations are found on our offshore islands. Adults weigh about a kilogram, grow to a height of 40 cm and live, on average, 6 years. In one instance, an age of 21 years has been recorded.   Shipping Info