Which New Zealand penguin species is also known by the Māori name hoiho?

The New Zealand penguin species also known by the Māori name hoiho is the yellow-eyed penguin.

Hoiho means “noise-maker” in Māori and refers to the species’ calls. Yellow-eyed penguins are recognized by the bright yellow band that runs from the eyes around the back of the head. Unlike many penguins that breed in dense colonies, they often nest in secluded sites among coastal vegetation, which can make them difficult to observe.

The species is native to New Zealand, including parts of the South Island and offshore islands. It is strongly associated with coastal forest and scrub near breeding sites, while adults forage at sea for fish and other marine prey.

Yellow-eyed penguins face threats from habitat loss, introduced predators, disease, and changes in marine food supplies. They are sometimes confused with crested penguins because both can have yellow head markings, but hoiho lacks the prominent crest feathers seen in species such as the Fiordland penguin. Its eye stripe and solitary nesting habits are useful identification clues.