Remains of Tiny Penguin Species Discovered

August 16, 2023

Palaeontologists have discovered the fossilised remains of a small, extinct penguin species on New Zealand’s North Island. These penguins are believed to be related to korora penguins, the current smallest species of penguins. The fossilised skulls found belong to a young penguin and an adult penguin. Named Wilson’s little penguin, this species is believed to have inhabited the region around three million years ago. According to palaeontologists, this newly discovered penguin species weighed less than a kilogram and was just about a foot tall. 

Did You Know
Penguins can consume saltwater as they possess a special gland in their body, which filters salt from their blood before it travels to the rest of the body.