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Residing in a secluded cove in Sydney’s Northern harbour are the 30cm tall small penguins. They are part of the penguin species which is the world’s smallest penguins. They often prefer cooler waters where they can get plenty of fish and thus thrive. While this is not technically a tour focused group of penguins their dwindling numbers have attracted a great deal of attention.

These penguins are in a sense ‘free range’ and have made this part of the Australian coast their home due to the fishing opportunities. When they were first discovered there were only 60 pairs of breeding birds. This decrease was caused by the fact that these small penguins were attacked by dogs and foxes. Because of this the penguins were then put onto the endangered list and conservation of these penguins has been the forefront of government agencies and the recovery team.

Suitable habitat is important for these little penguins and their decline is also attributed to the loss of this breeding habitat. This has also ensured that they land on the extinct list and thus increased the efforts for conservation of their habitat.

The waters around Manly Cove are patrolled as part of the conservation plan. The increase of these small penguins is said to be something that will take years. This area is designated and indicated by all the signs as that ask people to be aware of penguins and to ensure that their dogs are put on a leash when around this area.

Locals are also part of this conservations as they are in a sense the eyes and ears of conservation agencies so as to aid with the preservation of these little penguins. As with all other penguins they often go fishing during the day and return during the evening to come to their burrows. For the visitors who wish to see these small penguins then this is the best time to do so. However, it has to be done with the greatest consideration for the penguins and their environment.

Although this is not a penguin tour as such, people can still get a glimpse of the little penguins at the Corner of Manly Wharf and the beach. However, due to their sensitive nature there are warning signs that ask people not to disturb the penguins. This respect ensures that the penguins feel confident and safe to continue breeding thus bringing continued viewing for generations to come.