Pilots beach is a magical place on the Otago Peninsula, home to Kororā, the Little Blue Penguin, the world’s smallest penguin. There are currently around 200 pairs located at pilots beach, around half of the population in the region.
Throughout the year little penguins can be seen scurrying up to their cliff-face burrows at Pilots beach. They nest underground so are generally visible around dusk, when they return to their nests after spending the day at sea in search of food.
The penguins congregate in groups known as “rafts” not far offshore where they often can be heard making short and loud squawks.
Pilots beach is also near breeding grounds for New Zealand fur seals “kekeno” and sea lions “rāpoka”, and they often visit the area.
Keep at least 10 m away from them and do not surround them – they are faster than they look!
Home to the Little Blue Penguin and playground for Seals and Sea Lions
- Duration:
- 30 min