Unexpected new habitat announced for Tasmanian Penguins
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We've got some news that's guaranteed to bring a big smile to your dials, especially if you're a fan of cute, waddling critters. In the stunning city of Burnie, located on the island of Tasmania, a colony of little penguins is expanding their habitat—and wait until you hear where they've set up shop!
Just a quick hop, skip and jump away from the bustling heart of Burnie, Tasmania’s fourth-largest city, a group of the world's smallest penguins has found their groove, completely unfazed by the bright lights and loud ruckus around them.
These little penguins, scientifically known as 'Eudyptula minor', have chosen the foreshore of the city as their humble abode, bringing joy to both locals and tourists alike.
It’s worth noting that little penguins can be found in colonies scattered throughout South Australia, but Tasmania takes the cake when it comes to their population.
And here's the cherry on top—every night from October to March, the Friends of Burnie Penguins (FOBP) offer free guided experiences, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with these charming little birds as they return from a day of fishing or exploring outside their cosy burrows. Who wouldn't be tempted to head down south and experience this firsthand?
Right in the middle of an existing car park! Yep, you heard it right; a car park is being transformed into a delightful sanctuary for these adorable little birds.
Dr Perviz Marker, the coordinator of the FOBP volunteer group, shared that the conversion of the nearby car park areas into suitable penguin habitats is well underway.
She mentioned, 'It's a golden opportunity to give the area an environmental boost and witness the return of native vegetation.'
This habitat expansion is part of the University of Tasmania's (UTAS) campus relocation effort, spearheaded by their Cradle Coast Pro Vice-Chancellor, Associate Professor Sonya Stanford. Safeguarding and increasing the penguin habitat has been a top priority throughout the entire project.
Dr Marker expressed their enthusiasm, stating, ‘We are really excited about the new development in the area and have been collaborating with the University of Tasmania since 2016 to bring this to fruition.’
The Friends of Burnie Penguins (FOBP) can expect even more support as the University of Tasmania engaged them in a co-design process.
By combining the local knowledge and penguin expertise of FOBP with the expertise of landscape architects, the project ensures the best possible outcome for the penguin colony, preserving the sanctity and community spirit of West Park.
The transformation is set to be completed later this year, and FOBP has plans to recruit additional volunteers to ensure the ongoing protection of the little penguins and to provide an enjoyable experience for visitors.
If you ever have the chance to visit or live in Tasmania, make sure to check out this incredible attraction that's not to be missed!
It's an experience that will not only warm your heart but also contribute to the continuous efforts made by our beloved penguin friends and the dedicated volunteers who ensure their little sanctuary remains vibrant and thriving.
So, members, embrace your adventurous spirit and keep in mind that Australia is filled with countless unique and fascinating experiences waiting to be discovered in every corner!
Just a quick hop, skip and jump away from the bustling heart of Burnie, Tasmania’s fourth-largest city, a group of the world's smallest penguins has found their groove, completely unfazed by the bright lights and loud ruckus around them.
Tasmania is home to a significant portion of Australia's charming little penguin population. Source: DiscoverBurnie.net
These little penguins, scientifically known as 'Eudyptula minor', have chosen the foreshore of the city as their humble abode, bringing joy to both locals and tourists alike.
It’s worth noting that little penguins can be found in colonies scattered throughout South Australia, but Tasmania takes the cake when it comes to their population.
And here's the cherry on top—every night from October to March, the Friends of Burnie Penguins (FOBP) offer free guided experiences, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with these charming little birds as they return from a day of fishing or exploring outside their cosy burrows. Who wouldn't be tempted to head down south and experience this firsthand?
An unexpected habitat expansion
Now, you might be curious about the exciting twist in this heartwarming tale. Brace yourselves because the penguins are about to get a brand-new home, and guess where it's going to be?Right in the middle of an existing car park! Yep, you heard it right; a car park is being transformed into a delightful sanctuary for these adorable little birds.
Dr Perviz Marker, the coordinator of the FOBP volunteer group, shared that the conversion of the nearby car park areas into suitable penguin habitats is well underway.
The coastal pathway is set to be elevated, creating a pathway for penguins to access their new habitat. This thoughtful initiative will ensure the well-being and continued presence of these adorable creatures in the area. Source: DiscoverBurnie.net
She mentioned, 'It's a golden opportunity to give the area an environmental boost and witness the return of native vegetation.'
This habitat expansion is part of the University of Tasmania's (UTAS) campus relocation effort, spearheaded by their Cradle Coast Pro Vice-Chancellor, Associate Professor Sonya Stanford. Safeguarding and increasing the penguin habitat has been a top priority throughout the entire project.
The development plan
In an exciting development, the upcoming project will introduce native plants and penguin burrows, adding a touch of excitement to the area. The existing coastal pathway will also be elevated, with tunnels being installed beneath it, allowing the penguins to access their expanded home directly from the beach.Dr Marker expressed their enthusiasm, stating, ‘We are really excited about the new development in the area and have been collaborating with the University of Tasmania since 2016 to bring this to fruition.’
The Friends of Burnie Penguins (FOBP) can expect even more support as the University of Tasmania engaged them in a co-design process.
By combining the local knowledge and penguin expertise of FOBP with the expertise of landscape architects, the project ensures the best possible outcome for the penguin colony, preserving the sanctity and community spirit of West Park.
The transformation is set to be completed later this year, and FOBP has plans to recruit additional volunteers to ensure the ongoing protection of the little penguins and to provide an enjoyable experience for visitors.
It's an experience that will not only warm your heart but also contribute to the continuous efforts made by our beloved penguin friends and the dedicated volunteers who ensure their little sanctuary remains vibrant and thriving.
So, members, embrace your adventurous spirit and keep in mind that Australia is filled with countless unique and fascinating experiences waiting to be discovered in every corner!
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