Host: Mary

Guest: Dr. Jeff White – Seabird Ecologist, Conservation Biologist, and Penguin Researcher

Episode Summary: In this conversation, Dr. Jeff White shares his journey from a childhood fascination with birds to a specialised focus on penguins. He discusses the various challenges penguins face in different regions, the unique traits of crested penguins, and the importance of movement tracking in understanding their behavior. Dr. White also reflects on his fieldwork experiences, the pressing conservation issues for penguins, and the significance of public engagement in science communication. 

🐧 Key Topics Covered:

• From Pigeons to Penguins. Jeff’s journey into seabird ecology started with pigeons and unexpectedly led him to the world of penguins.
• Crested Penguins Up Close. He explains what makes crested penguins unique, from their breeding habits to their resilience in harsh environments.
• Tracking Penguin Movements. Jeff highlights how satellite tags and GPS tracking reveal where penguins forage, how far they travel, and why this data is critical for conservation.
• Fieldwork Realities. From rugged coastlines to long hours in unpredictable weather, Jeff shares the demanding yet rewarding experiences of working directly with penguins.
• Public Engagement Matters. Jeff reflects on why science communication is essential, and how sharing penguin stories helps people connect, care, and take action.
• Conservation in Context. No two penguin species—or even populations—face the same problems. Solutions must be tailored, collaborative, and science-driven.

💬 Quotes to Remember:

“Climate change is a huge issue.” – On the biggest challenge facing penguins today.

“It’s hard to be a baby penguin.” – On the struggles juveniles face in their first years at sea.

“People have to know about the problem, care about the problem, to then do something about the problem.” – On why public engagement in science matters.

Connect with Jeff:

• Website: Jeff White
• Instagram: @jeff_white618 
• Bluesky: @jeffwwhite

Featured Research: Population structure of New Zealand crested penguins – PLOS One

Projects: 

• The Tawaki Project 
• The Tawaki Trust 
• Falklands Wildlife Health

 Extra Resources & Mentions

• Myrene Otis: Inter-colony and inter-annual behavioural plasticity in fjord-dwelling penguins
• Penguin being washed down by a wave (Instagram reel):

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