SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, home to a vibrant colony of King and Gentoo penguins, has announced their support for Aotearoa New Zealand’s eagerly awaited ‘Bird of the Century’ election. In a heartwarming show of solidarity, the penguins are rallying behind their feathered cousins, the iconic hoiho or yellow-eyed penguin, as they vie for this prestigious title.
New Zealand’s leading independent conservation organisation, Forest & Bird, has launched a nationwide campaign to identify and celebrate the ‘Bird of the Century’, recognising the unique avian species that have contributed to Aotearoa’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The playful penguins at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s, known for their striking personalities and social nature, have thrown their flippers up in full support of the yellow-eyed penguins in this exciting election.
“We’re incredibly proud of our penguin colony,” said Amy Wardrop, Penguin Manager at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s. Their enthusiastic endorsement of the yellow-eyed penguins demonstrates the unity and harmony that the natural world embodies. We believe it’s essential to honour and protect these remarkable creatures and raise awareness about the diverse birdlife that graces our shores.”
The yellow-eyed penguins, or hoiho, are a species endemic to New Zealand, known for their distinctive yellow eyes and unique appearance. They face various challenges in the wild, making this election a crucial opportunity to spotlight their importance and promote their preservation.
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s encourages citizens to join in the voting process for Aotearoa’s ‘Bird of the Century’ and make their voices heard in supporting the yellow-eyed penguins. Every vote counts in the effort to conserve and celebrate these extraordinary creatures that enrich the nation’s natural legacy.
For more information about SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium and their commitment to marine conservation and wildlife awareness, please visit www.kellytarltons.co.nz
Voting for bird of the century opened 9am, Monday 30 October, to vote visit www.birdoftheyear.org.nz
