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Hoiho wins New Zealand’s Bird of the Year again

Reuters, Doris Wai
4 Nov, 2024

Despite its popularity, the yellow-eyed penguin faces threats from predators and climate change, leading to a fall in its population.

The yellow-eyed penguin won New Zealand’s Bird of Year Title for the second time. Photo: Shutterstock
The yellow-eyed penguin won New Zealand’s Bird of Year Title for the second time. Photo: Shutterstock
Stop and think

What can we do to help protect birds like the yellow-eyed penguin?

Read and answer

Why might some people think the name hoiho doesn’t fit the penguin’s behaviour?

Stop and think

What can we do to help protect birds like the yellow-eyed penguin?

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Enjoy the audio version of this article!

The yellow-eyed penguin, or hoiho, has been crowned New Zealand’s Bird of the Year for 2024. It secured 6,328 votes for its second win in the popular annual competition.

The hoiho is one of the world’s rarest penguin species. It beat two other rare birds – the Chatham Island black robin and the kakapo.

The hoiho is native to New Zealand. It has an estimated population of between 4,000 to 5,000 (see graphic).

Despite its Maori name meaning “noise shouter”, the species is known for its elusive behaviour and strong odour. The penguin previously won the title in 2019.

The competition was held by Forest and Bird, a conservation organisation. Nicola Toki, from the organisation, said the species was in a critical condition.

“We’ve lost 78 per cent of their mainland population in just 15 years due to predators and climate change,” she said.

The competition saw nearly 52,500 votes cast. The enthusiasm reflects New Zealanders’ deep connection with their native birds.

New Zealand has had few land-based predators for much of its history. Hence, it is home to more species of flightless birds than anywhere else in the world, including penguins, takahe and the iconic kiwi.

Sample answers

Stop and think: protect the environment to limit the effects of climate change

Read and answer: because it’s name means “noise shouter” but it is a quiet bird

Listen Now
Enjoy the audio version of this article!
Read and answer

Why might some people think the name hoiho doesn’t fit the penguin’s behaviour?