Dr. Thomas explained the significance of the findings, stating, "These newly discovered fossils show little penguins like kororā have been part of coastal ecosystems of Zealandia for at least three million years. This is important when thinking about the origins of these penguins, the evolution of the seabird diversity of Aotearoa, and the dynamic environment in which they live.
The study's findings hold great importance for understanding the impact of climate change on Aotearoa's biodiversity. "The rising temperature means more species will find Aotearoa habitable, so it’s important to learn as much as we can about the species that lived here during the last warm-world phase," Dr Thomas emphasized.
Dr. Euan Kennedy, a close friend and colleague of Wilson, expressed his appreciation, stating, "It’s a very generous recognition of a courageously motivated seabird champion whose formidable energy, talent, and passion she herself shared generously. She lived for seabirds and for their future in the hands of tomorrow’s talented young researchers."