Penguin Exhibit

Today was spent working in the penguin exhibit! I had the opportunity to volunteer alongside Andrea Newman, a penguin biologist, who shared a wealth of information on penguin behavior and physiology. We then suited up to feed the three penguin species on exhibit: Rockhopper (Eudyptes chrysocome), Little Blue (Eudyptula minor), and African (Spheniscus demersus) penguins. All species of penguin inhabit the southern hemisphere, with most residing in Antarctica, but these specific species are found in Patagonia, Australia/New Zealand, and South Africa, respectively. Threats such as shifting ocean currents due to climate change and overfishing by humans impact all of them. Additionally, many populations are threatened by invasive species that hunt their eggs. The aquarium is actively collaborating with other zoos and aquariums to promote a healthy captive breeding program and is committed to ensuring the viability of wild populations through conservation initiatives around the world.

Wading into the freezing water and being surrounded by dozens of squawking penguins was exhilarating. Each bird has a name and unique wing bracelet displaying a specific color and pattern. The males have their bands on the left wing, and the females on the right wing (since according to the staff, girls are always right haha). Armed with a waterproof clipboard listing each bird’s name, I kept track of how many capelins each bird consumed and which ones needed specific medications or supplements. The penguins were extremely curious and playful, but I had received a specific warning about Namibia — a large female African penguin. Recognizing I was a newcomer, she hopped off her rock and splashed into the water to investigate me. As I stood in waist-high water, she circled around me a few times before asserting dominance with a painful bite to show who was in charge. Message received, Namibia! Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the penguins today and sincerely appreciate all the help from Andrea!