R O C K H O P P E R   P E N G U I N S

Rockhoppers are part of a family of penguins called the crested penguins because of the brightly colored feathers on their heads. These bright feathers look like long eyebrows. Rockhoppers are the smallest of the crested penguins. The eat squid, krill , and other small fish.

Rockhoppers live on most of the islands in the sub-Antarctic region. There are major colonies on the Falkland Islands, Macquarie and the islands of Antipodes and Bounty off the southern tip of New Zealand. It is estimated that there are over 3 million breeding pairs. Rockhoppers are about 18 to 23 inches (45 to 58 cm) and can weigh about 5 to 8 lbs (2 to 3 kg). They get their name because they hop over rocks and crevices on the shores where they live.

Rockhoppers make their nests by scraping a hole in the ground and lining it with dried grasses. Two eggs are usually laid. often only one chick is raised. The first egg is smaller and often gets eaten by predators. The second egg is often larger and the chick that hatches from this egg has a better chance of surviving. Rockhoppers are loud, noisy, and feisty birds. They are quick to attack anyone or anything that bothers them.

The male and female guard the eggs and keep them warm for 32 to 34 days. They take turns with each taking care of the eggs for 10 days at a time. When the chick is hatched the male broods and cares for the chick while the female fishes and brings home food. When the chick is about 4 weeks old they huddle with other chicks. These large groups are called "crèches". The chicks do this for warmth and protection. The chicks molt and leave for the open sea when they are 65 to 72 days old.