In 2024, thehoiho, oryellow-eyed penguin, emerged victorious in this fan-voted competition.
It also earned endorsements from Dr. Jane Goodall and former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark.
The hoiho is considered one of the world’s rarest penguins.
Photo: Imagix/Depositphotos
Known for its distinctive pale yellow eyes and matching feathers, it has a reserved, shy demeanor.
However, its attention-grabbing call earned it a te reo Maori name that means noise shouter.
Sadly, Forest & Bird considers the hoiho to be in serious trouble.
Photo: jirousek.zoo-foto.cz/Depositphotos
Among the challenges this species faces are introduced species, diseases, and habitat destruction.
Yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) are disappearing before our eyes.
Yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) are disappearing before our eyes.
Photo: jirousek.zoo-foto.cz/Depositphotos
Photo: jirousek.zoo-foto.cz/Depositphotos
