Scientists baffled at government’s ‘killing blow’ for Penguin Island

The government’s decision to start construction on Penguin Island during the breeding season of a decimated and vulnerable little penguin population has baffled scientists who advised against it.

The new works tendered for during the breeding season could be the nail in the coffin for a population already on the brink, experts say.

Leader of the Save Rockingham’s Little Penguins campaign Dawn Jecks leads a rally to save the penguins in Rockingham.Credit: Holly Thompson/ Supplied

The state government plans to build a roof over a large decking area and install an information hub for volunteers and interpretive signage.

Construction would occur between mid-August and the end of September before the island reopens to the public in October after closing to visitors to avoid disturbing the penguins at breeding time.

The decision comes weeks after a report by University of Western Australia scientist Dr Belinda Cannell revealed the shocking 90-plus per cent decline of the population between 2007 and 2023.

Murdoch University conservation biologist Erin Clitheroe.

Murdoch University conservation biologist Erin Clitheroe, who has worked on the island for 18 years and advised the state against the latest works, has witnessed this decline.

She said numbers were now critically low and anything impacting even one nesting attempt should be avoided.

But Environment Minister Reece Whitby’s office recently advised her the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions – which manages the island – would proceed despite concerns.

While marine heatwaves have contributed to the decline, Clitheroe said the little penguins were resilient animals and in normal circumstances, could have bounced back.

“This decline is not a natural cycle. Assuming there is nothing we can do is a dangerous position to take,” she said.

“Something is seriously wrong. Losing this species could see the whole ecosystem collapse in the surrounding marine park and on the island.”

Rockingham councillor and leader of Save Rockingham’s Little Penguins Dawn Jecks said the government was not serious about saving the birds.

“This population is an inconvenience for them,” she said.

“The island is closed between June and October for a reason. It should also be closed to building works … why are [scientists] being ignored and disrespected again?

“We’re not saying ‘don’t do it’. We’re simply asking this government to follow the advice of the experts and wait.”

Jecks said it felt like the government had “given up” on the population.

A DBCA spokeswoman said improvements were crucial for educating visitors and ensuring penguins’ protection.

“The remaining works are restricted to the existing deck and boardwalks and will not involve any disturbance of penguin habitat. As much as possible, pre-fabrication works will be undertaken off-island,” she said.

“DBCA staff will be present on Penguin Island to monitor remaining construction works, including undertaking daily checks to ensure no penguins are present within the work area. Strict conditions will be in place to ensure potential impact to penguins, or their habitat is minimised.”

She did not respond to questions asking what the advice from scientists was, or if it was ignored.

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