Category: Blog

Phillip Island is known for its variety of animal encounters, with one of the most popular being the nightly parade of Little Penguins returning from their day at sea.

The smallest penguins in the world, fairy penguins are native to Australia and New Zealand and can be found on Phillip Island in Victoria, so book a Penguin Parade tour and watch them in their habitat.

The Fascinating Habitat of Victoria’s Little Penguins

This beauty of a spectacle is a ripper for animal enthusiasts in the area, especially since this unreal experience is a once-in-a-dinkum-lifetime event. Not only can you squit at the adorable little blighters waddling up the beach, but you can also get the lowdown on their digs and how they go about their day at the Visitor Centre.

Believe it or not, the Little Penguins are the tiniest penguins going around – that’s why they’re named that. They stand about 33cm tall on average and mainly hang about the southern coasts of Australia and New Zealand, spending their days at sea snagging a feed before rocking up back on shore come nightfall. Sometimes, folks call these wee creatures fairy penguins because of their pint-size.

Guide to Locating Little Penguins

Phillip Island is home to the largest colony of Little Penguins. The penguin parade occurs every evening on Summerland Beach. The island is popular with tourists seeking wildlife encounters. There are 32,000 breeding pairs on the island and in St Kilda and Victoria Pier. Little Penguins have lived on the breakwater long and have been studied for conservation since the mid-1980s.

Various tourist spots in Australia include Little Penguins near London Arch, the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, and Wilson’s Promontory and Gabo Island.

These spots are all about gorgeous, untamed beaches where the penguins can kick back on an evening, and the warm waters are perfect for them to go fishing during the day. Phillip Island is your best bet if you’re chasing nature encounters while wandering around Australia. The nightly penguin parade is a top-notch way to spend your evening after you’ve sussed out everything to know about the adorable little blokes’ home turf, their story in Oz, and the efforts to keep them safe for their future.

Be sure to rock up at the viewing area early to snag the best spot, whether you’re keen to watch the procession from up top or right at eye level.

What makes fairy penguins unique?

The penguins, also known as trim or blue, are unique because they have blue feathers. These blue feathers help them blend in the water, where they spend most of their time. They have about 10,000 feathers despite their small size. Visitors are fond of these penguins because they are tiny and adorable, making them unique attractions.

Where can fairy penguins be found?

Little penguins can be best observed on Summerland Beach in Phillip Island, where the Penguin Parade occurs every evening at sunset as the penguins return to the island for the night.

Penguin Parade offers various ways to view the blue penguins.

General viewing

The general viewing area at Summerland Beach has tiered seating and boardwalks available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering a great view of the beach before the penguins arrive.

Penguin Plus

If you want a better view of the penguins, consider upgrading to Penguin Plus. This upgrade offers a different viewing experience compared to general seating. You will be on a platform that blends in with the natural surroundings and puts you closer to the penguins’ path.

Underground viewing

Experience the unique opportunity to observe penguins at eye level as they navigate their path underground. Visitors are enclosed behind a window for safety and protection from the weather.

Guided ranger tour

Take a ranger-guided tour to observe little penguins as they come ashore at the beach. This experience offers a unique opportunity to witness them up close on the beachfront.

Ultimate adventure tour

Visitors can learn about penguins from a ranger during a beach walk, followed by observing them in a secluded area as they shuffle through the sand. Night vision scopes are available for viewing in the dark.

Family wildlife tour

The ranger organizes an educational program for children, and you and the kids have reserved seats in the main viewing area.

Tips for watching Little Penguins

– Flash photography is prohibited due to the penguins’ sensitivity to light, which can frighten or disorient them.

– It is recommended that the penguins remain seated to avoid sudden movements that may scare them.

– Visitors are advised to arrive an hour before the penguins arrive to explore the visitor centre or have a meal.

– The Penguin Parade is held regardless of weather conditions, so it is essential to check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Kings Day is a national holiday in the Netherlands celebrated on the 27th of April each year. It marks the birthday of King Willem-Alexander and is a day filled with festivities, parades, orange-colored clothing, and joyful celebrations. Let’s dive into the traditions and customs of this special day.

Preparations

Before Kings Day, the Dutch people start preparing by decorating their houses and streets with orange-colored banners, flags, and balloons. Orange is the national color of the Netherlands and is associated with the royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau. People also clean out their attics and garages to set up stalls for the famous Kings Day flea markets.

Flea Markets

The Kings Day flea markets are a highlight of the celebrations. People of all ages set up stalls on the streets to sell their second-hand items, toys, clothes, and homemade crafts. It’s an excellent opportunity for locals to socialize, bargain, and engage in sustainable practices by recycling and reusing items. The streets are bustling with bargain hunters, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

Parades and Festivities

Throughout the day, there are parades and various festivities organized in cities and towns across the Netherlands. Music bands, dance groups, and performers fill the streets, offering entertainment for all ages. Colorful floats, decorated boats on canals, and street performances create a festive ambiance. People wear orange clothing, wigs, hats, and accessories, showcasing their national pride and love for the royal family.

Children’s Activities

Kings Day is a special day for children, packed with fun activities. Many cities organize special events such as treasure hunts, face painting, puppet shows, and games for children to enjoy. Families often participate in these activities together, making it a memorable experience for everyone.

Traditional Games

There are several traditional games played on Kings Day, such as “koekhappen,” where participants try to bite a hanging cookie with their hands tied behind their back, and “spijkerpoepen,” where players attach a nail to a string tied around their waist and try to lower it into a bottle.

Street Performances and Music

Street performers and musicians fill the air with their talents, showcasing diverse forms of entertainment. You can find bands playing traditional Dutch music, DJs hosting open-air parties, and local talents performing on street corners. Dancing, singing, and celebration are in full swing throughout the day.

Eating and Drinking

Food and drinks play an essential role in Kings Day celebrations. Street food stalls offer a wide variety of traditional Dutch snacks, such as “bitterballen” (deep-fried meatballs), “poffertjes” (tiny fluffy pancakes), and “haring” (raw herring). The Dutch also enjoy their famous orange-colored liqueur, “Oranjebitter,” and other refreshing beverages while celebrating.

Kings Day is a day of joy, unity, and national pride for the Dutch people. It brings communities together, fosters cultural traditions, and creates memorable experiences for people of all ages. The combination of flea markets, parades, street performances, and delicious food makes Kings Day a unique and vibrant celebration in the Netherlands.

What is Three Kings Day?