Two Humboldt penguin chicks have hatched at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo to celebrate World Penguin Day, held annually on April 25, which celebrates all 18 species of penguins. Both chicks are female, hatching March 1 and March 17, and are off-exhibit in nesting burrows with their respective sets of parents. The zoo, which has one of North America’s most successful breeding programs for penguins, will add the chicks to its colony in early summer.
Newly hatched Humboldt penguin chicks—a symbol of hope for World Penguin Day!
Humboldt penguins are one of the smallest penguin species in the world, and they are listed as vulnerable species due to climate change and overfishing. However, on this World Penguin Day, there is a ray of hope as several newly hatched Humboldt penguin chicks are being reported across the globe.
Breeding programs for Humboldt penguins
Breeding programs for Humboldt penguins have been underway in various zoos and aquariums around the world, and these are bearing fruits as the number of newly hatched chicks continues to rise. Such programs go a long way in conserving the species and raising awareness about their plight.
The hatchlings
Newly hatched chicks are fragile and require special care to survive. Hatchlings are usually fed regurgitated food from their parents and kept warm under unique brooding lamps. These chicks are kept from public view and only seen by zoo staff or caretakers.
Life as a Humboldt Penguin
Humboldt penguins are native to the coasts of Chile and Peru, where they live in large colonies along the shorelines. They are social animals and often form life-long bonds with their mates.
Humboldt penguins enjoy feeding on small fish, krill, squid, and crustaceans. They are excellent swimmers and can dive to depths of up to 150 feet to catch prey.
Conservation efforts
On World Penguin Day, it’s important to note that conservation efforts are necessary to protect the species from climate change, overfishing, and habitat loss. Without such actions, the species could become critically endangered or even extinct.
Humboldt penguins are just one of the many species requiring our attention and conservation efforts. The hope provided by the newly hatched chicks serves as a reminder that there is still time to make a difference and save these beautiful creatures from disappearing.
