The Department of Conservation is urging the public to come forward with any information that could help identify those responsible for the death of a little blue penguin in Oamaru on Sunday 28 September.
The little blue penguin, the world’s smallest species of penguin and classified as a threatened species, was found injured by a witness on The Esplanade between 8.30pm and 9.30pm.
Despite being retrieved alive, the penguin died shortly after.
DOC is working alongside Oamaru Police to determine the cause of death.
Suspicious vehicle activity was reported in the area at the time, and investigators are particularly interested in any CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage from that evening.
DOC Dunedin Operations Manager Gabe Davies described the incident as “a shockingly senseless act” and stressed the importance of community vigilance in protecting vulnerable native wildlife.
“Kororā live and nest close to urban environments and are a much-loved feature of Oamaru’s coast,” said Davies. “They are already under pressure, and human actions like this only worsen their decline. We all share a responsibility to protect these precious birds.”
Davies also highlighted the broader issue of wildlife safety along New Zealand’s coastlines, especially as the busy summer season approaches.
“People need to be especially alert near coastal roads. We’re seeing more wildlife, including penguins and sea lions, living and nesting in these areas. Drivers need to slow down and stay aware,” he said.
The appeal comes as investigations continue into the separate deaths of three New Zealand sea lions, which were found shot near the mouth of the Waitaki River in August.
While DOC says these types of attacks on native species are rare, they are deeply concerning.
“If anyone has any information about this incident or sees someone threatening wildlife, please don’t hesitate to call 0800 DOC HOT or contact Police immediately,” Davies urged.
Killing or harming a protected species such as the kororā carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison, a $100,000 fine, or both under the Wildlife Act.
