Hello, everyone! Today, let’s talk about the Little Penguin, the smallest penguin in the world!
Measuring only around 40 cm (about 16 inches) in height and weighing about 1 kg (around 2.2 pounds), they’re irresistibly tiny and cute. As their name suggests, Little Penguins are the smallest species of penguin. Compared to the largest species, the Emperor Penguin, they’re only about one-third the size! Their appearance includes a bluish-black back, a white belly, pink feet with black soles, and a unique white spot under their beak.
These little penguins actually have a rather unusual way of walking. Unlike other penguins that stand upright with puffed-out chests, Little Penguins lean forward and waddle along. Because of this walk, they’re sometimes referred to as the most “primitive” of all penguins.
They live along the coasts of southern Australia and New Zealand. Being nocturnal, they return to their burrows on land at night and head out to the ocean to hunt at dawn. They’re also quite particular about their nests, often reusing the same burrow year after year. You can find them nesting in grassy areas, under rocks, and even secretly living under the floors of houses.
The biggest highlight? The “Penguin Parade” – also known as the “Penguin Race”! On Phillip Island in Australia, there’s a popular tourist event where you can watch Little Penguins return from the sea at dusk. Groups of 10 to 30 penguins appear on the shore, chirping as they waddle along, sometimes even squabbling over who gets to go first. Their adorable behavior is sure to bring a smile to your face!
By the way, in Japan, you can only see these cute penguins in three places: Kasai Rinkai Aquarium, Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. If you’re curious, be sure to go meet them! See you next time!
