4 February 2019

The death of a juvenile little blue penguin/kororā, killed by a dog near the Whangawehi stream at Mahia Peninsula, has prompted the Department of Conservation (DOC) to remind owners to control their dogs.

DOC East Coast Operations Manager John Lucas said little blue penguins are vulnerable as they leave the nest. This is a reminder to owners to keep dogs under control around coastal areas.

“Little blue penguins are at risk of being attacked by dogs and to keep penguins safe, dogs should be on a lead at all times.

“Penguins have a strong smell which is quite attractive to dogs. While on land they are very vulnerable and have no defense against a dogs bite” Mr Lucas said.

To keep our penguins safe:

Put your dog on a leash around penguin areas.
Keep your dog away from nests and warn others nearby of the location.
Leave penguins alone. Usually scruffy birds are simply moulting.
The public are urged to contact the DOC hotline (0800 36 24 68) to report injured native wildlife or instances of animal attack.

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