Sunday 18th December 2016

looking fantastic, home alone.

​Hello friends and family
It is time to reflect back on 2016 and determine what progress we have made on behalf of the penguins. I can assure you that we have been working very hard – Chris has been collecting the hours and it is impressive.

The Hoya blooms again

​We have written reports, attended meetings, advocated for and protected the penguins at every possible opportunity. We have visited and hosted anyone with a speck of interest in Yellow-eyed penguin conservation. We have fundraised, done interviews and made submissions. All of this effort has made no difference to the reality of the Yellow-eyed penguins that live here at the lighthouse.

Mum is keeping a careful watch

​Two more chicks died this week and so their bodies have been sent to Massey for autopsy as we have no idea why they died. This leaves us with 49 chicks from 47 nests – the worst ever performance at this time of the year ever. Of the 8 eggs laid on the historic reserve, only 3 chicks remain.

Our working girls taking a break

​Tourists take free reign over the place and go where they like, how they like, when they like, except for where they are blocked by thistles. 

Keeping 10m from penguins Yeah right!

​All of this is balanced by the fact that for the first time in several years, we have a high return of Juveniles – last year’s chicks. They give us a glimmer of hope for the future of the species on the South Island, but not here at the largest colony. 

Now listen here kids...

Next Sunday is Christmas day and so I will only send out pretty pictures. On New Year’s day I will look forward to 2017.
Have a great week!
Rosalie
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