It’s been a busy summer at the rehab clinic!

The last few weeks have been especially busy at the little blue rehab clinic with a higher number of penguins than usual being rescued and needing care. They came from as far afield as D’Urville Island, Cable Bay, Nelson and the beaches around Kaiteriteri.

Some were severely underweight and dehydrated, others had injuries that needed attention, one wee family lost an adult due to a dog attack so the other adult and 2 chicks received help until the chicks were old enough to fledge. One poor wee one was covered head to toe in black gunky oil and needed a thorough clean and medical attention.

Caring for little blues takes a lot of volunteer time. It’s a 24/7 job to keep them fed, attend to their injuries, ensure their surroundings are clean, warm and comfortable, administer medications and generally care for their specific needs.

Our amazing rehab vet, Mana and her wonderful assistant, Frances, work tirelessly to ensure that every little blue that comes to their clinic receives the best care possible.

Once on the road to recovery the little blues start to display their own personality. Some are shy, others very outgoing and social.

It’s important that they stay swim fit so pool time is an essential part of their rehab programme.