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

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 Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura Peninsula. We highlight the importance of the breeding colony at South Bay, Kaikoura, and recommend the protection of existing habitat as a priority for the survival of E. minor along the greater Kaikoura coastline.

Automated summary

This study reveals that suitable breeding habitat for little penguins along the greater Kaikoura coastline is limited and lacks data. The use of a Protected Species Detection Dog conducted the first comprehensive survey, locating little penguins in only 0.7% of the coastal stretch. The study highlights the importance of the breeding colony in South Bay and recommends the protection of existing habitat.