
Photo: Christopher Stephens · CC BY-SA 4.0
Eudyptes sclateri
Habitat
Remote rocky islands and surrounding ocean
Range
Surrounding seas
Size
Height 50–70 cm
Eudyptes sclateri is an endemic crested penguin breeding mainly on the Antipodes and Bounty islands. It differs from other crested penguins through stiff yellow plumes that stand upright when dry. Adults have black upperparts, white underparts, red eyes and an orange bill. The narrow yellow crests rise sharply above the eyes.
Breeding is concentrated on the Antipodes and Bounty islands, with occasional birds elsewhere. Colonies occupy exposed rocky slopes and ledges. It dives for fish, squid and krill, but its detailed diet remains poorly known. Birds spend the non-breeding season at sea.
The New Zealand classification is Declining. Antipodes and Bounty expedition voyages may see birds offshore; landing access is restricted.