Southern Rockhoppers

Southern rockhopper penguins, Eudyptes chrysocome are among the smallest crested penguins, adults measure approximately 18 to 22 inches (45 to 55 cm) and generally weigh between 4.4 and 8.4 pounds (2 to 3.8 kg). They are distinguished by red eyes and narrow yellow stripes that extend above the eyes into long crest feathers.

In the Falkland Islands, males return to established breeding colonies in early October, followed by females approximately one week later. Colonies occupy rocky coastal slopes, cliff tops, and areas among tussac grass. Simple nests may be constructed from vegetation, peat, and pebbles. The penguins are named for their characteristic method of moving across steep, broken terrain by hopping with both feet together.

Females normally lay two eggs several days apart in early November. The first egg is substantially smaller than the second, but both are incubated for approximately 32 to 34 days. Unusually, the larger second-laid egg frequently hatches before the first. Both chicks may hatch, although competition and differences in size mean that usually only one survives to fledging. Falkland colonies have occasionally produced pairs that successfully raise two chicks, a comparatively uncommon outcome among crested penguins.

After hatching, the male guards the chick or chicks for approximately three weeks while the female returns from the sea with food. Older chicks gather in groups known as crèches while both parents forage. Young penguins generally leave the colonies in late February or early March, extending the breeding cycle well into the following year. At sea, southern rockhoppers feed on fish, squid, and crustaceans. Although many dives reach approximately 66 to 98 feet (20 to 30 metres), dives exceeding 370 feet (113 metres) have been recorded.