09/05/2026
Little penguins nest and moult in coastal areas, and it’s common to see them crossing roads between the shoreline and their nesting sites. This is particularly the case in areas where the road is very close to the beach.
At the moment, we’re seeing another increase in penguin activity and have been receiving calls from concerned members of the public noticing them crossing roads or seeing them in the vegetation beside the road. It’s always encouraging to see people looking out for local wildlife, and we’re very glad to see people taking an interest in keeping penguins safe.
Little penguins can naturally travel up to 1 km inland in search of suitable shelter, burrows, and nesting sites. Vegetated areas near roads often provide important habitat and safe places for nesting.
While it can be concerning to see penguins crossing roads, it’s important that they’re able to move freely between the coast and their nesting areas without unnecessary interference. Penguins crossing roads after dusk is a normal part of their behaviour and is not usually a cause for alarm.
Drivers can help protect them by slowing down, especially between dusk and dawn, and staying alert in coastal areas where penguins may be present. Penguins do have some awareness of traffic, but they’re no match for a moving car.
If you’re nearby, there are a few things to keep an eye out for:
• Penguins out in the open during the daytime
• Penguins with obvious injuries
• Penguins approaching humans
If you notice any of the above, please call us. If we are handling birds, we may not be able to answer the phone immediately, so please leave us a message.
