Little Penguin

The little penguin has modified wings in the form of flippers that allow them to “fly” underwater with their streamlined shape perfect for swimming.

They have a gland that secretes an oil like substance that they use when preening to help add a layer of waterproofing over their outer feathers. They have a layer of down-like feathers closer to the skin that traps air to help them stay warm.

Little penguins moult annually and come ashore while this is occurring. Moulting can take between 12-18 days and the penguin doesn’t swim or feed during this time.

Little penguins are the only penguin with blue feathers (the other species are predominantly black and white). They are counter shaded, being light underneath and dark on top as a form of silhouette camouflaging.

Little Penguins secrete oily liquid from their tails which is rubbed over their feathers. This is to keep themselves waterproof so they can maintain a constant body temperature while at sea hunting for fish.