Distribution of little penguins (Eudyptula minor) along the greater Kaikōura coastline, New Zealand

Abstract

ABSTRACT The identification and subsequent protection of suitable breeding habitat for little penguins (Eudyptula minor) is restricted by data deficiency across large stretches of the species range. For example, presence/absence data is lacking for much of the Canterbury coast, mainland New Zealand. In October 2019, a Protected Species Detection Dog was used to conduct the first comprehensive survey for E. minor along the greater Kaikōura coastline. The principal objectives were to locate and map the distribution of sites utilised by E. minor between Waipapa Bay and the Conway River, characterise areas of suitable breeding habitat and identify ‘little blue’ and ‘white-flippered’ morphotypes. Eudyptula minor were located within just 0.7% of a coastal stretch measuring c. 75 km. A single breeding colony was located in severely fragmented habitat on the southern face of the Kaikōura Peninsula, South Bay. The Detection Dog gave positive indications at six further isolated sites in sheltered bays, including two active nests on the northern faces of Spy Glass Point (Piripaua) and the Kaikōura Peninsula. We highlight the importance of the breeding colony at South Bay, Kaikōura, and recommend the protection of existing habitat as a priority for the survival of E. minor along the greater Kaikōura coastline.