Macaroni (Eudyptes chrysolophus) and Southern Rockhopper penguins (E. c. chrysocome) have been classified as Vulnerable due to decreasing populations in recent decades. We report on a survey of Isla Recalada, Chile, a site described historically as containing an estimated population of 10,013 (±570) Rockhopper and 559 Macaroni penguins. Our survey was conducted on 14 and 15 November 2005 to coincide with peak colony attendance. No Rockhopper or Macaroni penguins were observed on Isla Recalada during this period. This survey suggests the population of these penguins has dispersed due to possible anthropogenic pressures or climate variation, and that both species of penguins have been extirpated from Isla Recalada.