The yellow-eyed penguin, known as the hoiho, has been named New Zealand’s Bird of the Year for 2024, securing 6,328 votes in the popular annual competition. This marks the penguin’s second win after first claiming the title in 2019. Organized by Forest & Bird, the competition celebrates New Zealand’s rich birdlife and engages the public in wildlife conservation efforts.
The hoiho, recognized as the world’s rarest penguin species, surpassed the Chatham Island black robin and the critically endangered kakapo to take the top spot. Despite being named “noise shouter” in Maori, the penguin is known for its elusive behavior and distinctive, strong odor. Its population is currently estimated between 4,000 and 5,000 individuals, making it a species in urgent need of protection.
Forest & Bird CEO Nicola Toki emphasized the critical condition of the species, stating that 78% of their mainland population has been lost over the past 15 years due to threats from predators and climate change. The hoiho’s victory in the Bird of the Year competition highlights not only its rarity but also the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this unique species from further decline.
This year’s Bird of the Year contest attracted nearly 52,500 votes, significantly fewer than last year’s record-breaking total of over 350,000, which was boosted by a televised campaign from comedian John Oliver in favor of the puteketeke (great crested grebe). Despite the smaller voter turnout, the competition remained a testament to New Zealanders’ deep connection with their native wildlife and their growing awareness of environmental issues.
New Zealand is home to a wealth of bird species, many of which are flightless, including the kiwi, takahe, and several penguin species like the hoiho. The country’s unique ecosystem, which developed with few natural land-based predators, has resulted in an abundance of rare and vulnerable species that require protection.
With the hoiho winning the prestigious title, Forest & Bird and conservationists hope to increase awareness about the challenges these birds face, calling for more robust conservation efforts to preserve New Zealand’s native wildlife for future generations.
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