The latest study on the little penguin population on Penguin Island has revealed no real difference in numbers since the 2023 estimate.
Conducted by UWA's Dr Belinda Cannell on behalf of the City of Rockingham, the 2024 Little Penguin Population Estimate Report found there were about 97 penguins on the whole island between September and November last year as opposed to an estimated 114 in 2023.
Although little penguins are not classified as a threatened species nationally, the colony on Penguin Island has experienced a dramatic population decline over recent years, with a decrease of 95 per cent since the highest record in 2008.
City of Rockingham Mayor Deb Hamblin said the long-term decline remains a concern.
“The little penguins are a symbol of our coastal identity. They are a beloved tourism draw, highly valued by locals and visitors alike, and our community cares about them deeply,” Mayor Hamblin said.
“We will continue to work closely with the State Government, which manages Penguin Island and the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, and with other stakeholders to help support the conservation of the little penguins.”
A number of measure have already been implemented to support the little penguin population such as closing the island on days exceeding 35 degrees, enforcing a longer winter closure period and installing nesting boxes.
Plans of a new discovery centre on the island were also scrapped by the State Government with Mersey Point identified as a possible alternative location.
The City funded the latest study as part of its ongoing advocacy efforts.
The research was assisted by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), which manages Penguin Island and the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park.
DBCA said it values the long-standing research in this area and will continue to support ongoing monitoring efforts.
City staff, DBCA representatives, along with researchers from Murdoch University and UWA meet regularly to identify and implement management and research priorities aimed at supporting the penguin population and preventing further decline.
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