Penguin Chick Takes its First Dip at Sewerby Hall and Gardens

Monday, 26 June 2023 14:29

By Matthew Pells

A Humboldt penguin chick born at Sewerby Hall and Gardens has taken its very first dip in the pool during the current heatwave.

The chick – the second grandchild of the late Rosie – is just over two months old, having hatched on Easter Saturday, 8 April.

Penguin parents Sigsbee and Twinnie watched as the youngster ventured out of its nest and took the plunge in the cooling waters of the enclosure, enjoying its very first swim on Friday.

John Pickering, head zookeeper at Sewerby Hall and Gardens, said:

“We’re thrilled to see the chick take its first swim around the pool and I’m sure this will be a special sight for lots of our visitors.

“Its parents are very proud to see their baby growing up and starting to explore the enclosure.”

The chick will be given a name once its sex is known. Zookeepers are unable to tell whether it is a male or female until it loses its baby feathers and the formation of its head becomes apparent.

Grandmother penguin Rosie, who was one of the world’s oldest Humboldt penguins, died in March, just a few weeks short of her 33rd birthday, with her death making headlines as far away as the USA.

But her grandchild is already proving a big hit with visitors to zoo, catching a glimpse as it learns to swim.