A large part of what we do involves the St Kilda penguin colony
Earthcare St Kilda first starting researching the little penguin colony in 1986 with just a few dedicated researchers. As the penguin colony grew, so did the team and responsibilities. The researchers noticed that the colony was gaining popularity with tourists and began “guiding” on weekends to educate the public and make sure the penguins were being looked after.
Jump ahead 35 years and Earthcare St Kilda had 30 research volunteers monitoring the colony fortnightly and around 180 penguin guides educating the public nightly (even on Christmas and NYE!) The penguins were becoming a very popular attraction and tourists were placing pressure on this urban colony… and then COVID-19 happened. The breakwater was closed and the penguins received some much needed respite. Unfortunately for the humans, we lost access to the penguins and their cute little waddles.
The breakwater is still closed due to pier redevelopment works which will see a new viewing boardwalk constructed away from the breakwater to prevent interactions between people and penguins. We are consulting with Parks Victoria and Simpson Construction to ensure penguins stay safe throughout the construction process.
We hope to resume penguin guide activities when the new pier is complete in 2024 and are collaborating with Monash University to continue research and establish a new monitoring program.
See the links below to learn more about Earthcare and the St Kilda penguins