Rare rescue: Fairy penguin found at Geraldton’s Fishing Boat Harbour and taken to Perth Zoo

A fairy penguin was discovered and rescued at Geraldton’s Fishing Boat Harbour recently, in what was a rare occurrence according to local wildlife rescue expert Michelle Jones. Ms Jones, from GG Wildlife Rescue, said fairy penguins were extremely uncommon in Geraldton. “I have had only three penguins in care in the 16 years I have been here,” she said. The adult penguin was found at Fishing Boat Harbour on October 16. Two members of the public rescued it and took it to wildlife vets at Sanford Veterinary Clinic. “(It) was of good weight and appeared very healthy. (It had) two wounds on the lower leg and an older injury that was healing well on the shoulder,” Ms Jones said. “The little one was taken to Perth and then we delivered it to Perth Zoo where they specialise in the care of unique wildlife. “The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions were notified every step of the way to ensure this little fairy penguin was transported with no stress and under all wildlife guidelines.” Ms Jones said fairy penguins had been found in the Shark Bay area, but were very common down the southern coast end of Australia and New Zealand. She added that it had been a busy start to the rescue and trauma season for her, taking care of cygnet chicks, galahs, joeys, injured snakes and lizards.