Penguins commonly come into care because they have beached themselves, as they are about to start the moulting process and cannot make it back to their burrow. Little penguins moult for a period of 17 days, in which they must stay on land as they are not waterproof. This means they are unable to fish and lose weight at a rapid rate. If they have not fattened themselves up well enough (double their normal weight) before moult period begins, they are often too weak to successfully fish after the moult is completed. These penguins are at a very weakened state and will be found beached around the bay. Call our hotline ASAP as they need to come into care immediately – time is crucial. Do not over handle the bird as they stress easily.