Little Penguins
You’re not dreaming, there are indeed penguins in the St. Lawrence River! Thousands of these birds from the eastern St. Lawrence come each year to brood on a small rocky island of the Isle-aux-Grues Archipelago. Coming from Gaspésie and Côte-Nord, this fascinating bird moves each spring to nest in this corner of the river.
The little penguin is the cousin of the great auk, which is now extinct. The female lays only one egg per year but will keep the same partner throughout its life, which can exceed 20 years. The little penguin mainly eats herrings, capelins, crustaceans, and marine worms. Its short, rounded wings, used as flippers, allow it to reach depths inaccessible to gulls. It is a fascinating animal that you can particularly observe on a penguin cruise.
A much-appreciated presence
The little penguins’ presence in the river is highly appreciated by the residents of Chaudière-Appalaches because they announce the arrival of spring and the upcoming summer season.
The migrating population in the St. Lawrence estuary has been increasing since the 1970s, which shows that the penguins’ food resources are becoming more abundant. Conservation and environmental protection efforts made in the region seem to be paying off, offering a promising future for these emblematic species.
The Only Penguin Capable of Flying
Did you know that unlike their cousins, little penguins are capable of flying? Their ability to fly allows them to travel long distances to feed and find a suitable place for reproduction.
Penguins like to nest in steep places such as cliffs or rocks, where they find cavities to build their nests, in order to protect themselves as much as possible from four-legged predators. However, they spend most of their time at sea, primarily for feeding.
A Unique Experience
Observing penguins in their natural habitat is a unique and memorable experience, especially when it is only 35 minutes away from Quebec City. In fact, one of the best ways to observe them is to embark on a little penguins’ cruise, to admire these majestic animals in their natural environment, at the mercy of the waters of the St. Lawrence River. It is a rare opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature and understand its crucial importance for future generations.
Book your cruise today and enjoy an exciting experience on the St. Lawrence River!
