Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Southern rockhopper penguin
Scientific name: Eudyptes chrysocome
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: SPHENISCIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Very shy
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.10-30.04
Gestation: 32–35 jours
Births: 65 jours
Habitat:
Subantarctic rocky islands and coastal cliffs
Description:
Small penguin 45–60 cm long, 2–4.3 kg, with contrasting black-and-white plumage and distinctive yellow crest tufts on each side of the head. Occurs on subantarctic islands, feeds mainly on crustaceans, fish and krill, diving to 100 m, and breeds in large colonies on rocky shores.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Position yourself at the edge of a cliff colony, about 20 m away, and wait for penguins to move among the rocks. Shoot early morning or late afternoon for raking light, and use a fast shutter speed to freeze movement and splashes.
Ready to take action?
Choose your platform and start your free trial today
