The hoiho, or yellow-eyed penguin, has been named New Zealand's Bird of the Year, highlighting the urgent need for conservation measures as the species faces a critical decline, with only 4,000 to 5,000 individuals remaining. This year's voting process was notably calmer than previous years, attracting over 50,000 votes, which represented 10% of New Zealand's population. The victory aims to raise awareness about the hoiho's precarious situation, as its numbers have dropped by 78% in the last 15 years, primarily due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species. Nicola Toki, CEO of Forest & Bird, stressed that the recognition comes at a crucial time for the endangered penguin. The contest has traditionally engaged New Zealanders in wildlife conservation, fostering a deep connection to the country’s unique avian species. This year's event succeeded in uniting supporters who utilized various campaigning tactics, such as memes and celebrity endorsements, to garner votes for their favorite birds.