Penguins in Melbourne

Victoria is fortunate to have several species of penguin that call Melbourne and Victoria home. It's home to several natural fairy penguin colonies at St Kilda, Phillip Island and Middle Island (Warrnambool*) plus Melbourne Zoo and Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium. * Because the penguins are still under threat, humans are not permitted on Middle Island; however, you can visit their canine protectors during summer and donate to the conservation effort. There are rules to go penguin spotting safely, so please please (please) take note: Can I take a photo of the penguins? Yes but not flash photography These little guys are sensitive to white and blue light, so if you're going to take a photo, be sure to turn your flash off. The same goes for using your phone torch; if you must use it, make sure you put red cellophane over the bulb to minimise the brightness. How close can I get to the penguins? Penguins are shy, so be quiet, still and out of their way so you don't scare them - keep a minimum of three metres distance. Where to find penguins near Melbourne