Snares Penguins

Distinguishing features Snares penguins have a broad crest extending from the beak to the back of the head. They are easily confused with Fiordland penguins but do not have the white markings on the cheek that are present in the Fiordland penguins. Photos of Snares penguins return to top of page
Sub-species There are no generally recognised sub-species of the Snares penguin. return to top of page
Height & Weight Snares penguins are 50 to 60 cm tall. Snares penguins weigh 3 to 4 kg with the weight varying by up to 1 kg during the year. return to top of page
Breeding locations
	Snares penguins only breed on Snares Island to the south of New Zealand. Currently the breeding population is estimated at 23,350 pairs. The population is believed to be stable.
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Nesting behaviour Snares penguins make a shallow scrape lined with twigs and branches. Two eggs are laid but only one chick is usually raised. Incubation takes 31 to 37 days by both parents in several long shifts. The male broods and guards the chick for 3 weeks. Chicks then form small creches and are fed daily by both parents. Chicks moult and go to sea when about 75 days old. return to top of page
Principal diet The diet of Snares penguins is not well known. It is believed the diet consists of 63% krill, 19% squid and 18% fish. return to top of page
Alternative names Also known as "Snares-crested" or "Snares Island" penguins. return to top of page

Snares Penguin - Eudyptes Robustus