Little Penguin death rate soars

Murdoch University is struggling to get funding for research into a major increase in deaths among Perth’s Little Penguins on Penguin Island and between Safety Bay and the mouth of the Donnelly River.

In 2011 the deaths of Little Penguins reached four times the normal level, raising alarm bells for Murdoch research associate Belinda Canal.

Dr Canal first noticed a spike in penguin deaths in September.

‘‘The penguin deaths are devastating,’’ she said.

‘‘I have been working with the Little Penguins since 1994.

"It is very sad to see a number of problems compacting one on top of the other.’’

Dr Canal believes the main reason for the penguin deaths is starvation, likely caused by high sea temperatures linked to strong La Nina conditions, and the strong Leeuwin Current in the summers of 2010 and 2011.

‘‘This marine heatwave probably led to a decline in the fish stocks that the Little Penguins rely on for food,’’ she said.

‘‘Other penguin deaths have been caused by marine craft,’’ she said.

‘‘We have found penguins with severed feet, cuts across their back and broken necks.’’

Dr Canal said people needed to be aware that even though they cannot always see the penguins, they are out there.

‘‘People need to take care on the water and slow down a bit,’’ she said.

Funding is required for Murdoch researchers to figure out where the penguins forage, what their diet consists of, and how food stocks are affected by major changes in ocean conditions and coastal developments, such as boat ramps and marinas.

‘‘It is very sad to think that this unique population of penguins may not be here for the long run, if we don’t get enough funding,’’ Dr Canal said.

‘‘The penguins in Perth are quite unique compared to other Little Penguin colonies, so it is vital we understand the various pressures they face in order to protect them.’’