Thomas Mattern

Thomas Mattern is a seabird ecologist and conservation scientist based at the University of Otago in New Zealand, internationally recognized for his pioneering work on penguin ecology. I co-lead the Tawaki Project and use advanced technologies – including GPS, geolocation, and satellite telemetry – to study penguin foraging ecology, while drones and machine learning help me examine penguin population size and distribution. I developed the high-definition “PenguCam” system, which advances our understanding of penguin diving behaviour. I integrate field biology, programming, ecological modeling, and public outreach, while mentoring students and collaborating globally. As representative of the Global Penguin Society, I integrate web technologies with community engagement to safeguard penguin populations in New Zealand, South America, and beyond.