Shedd Aquarium’s Newest Rockhopper Penguins Make Their Debut: Pico and Douglas
Meet the Stars of the Show
Shedd Aquarium has named its two newest rockhopper penguins – Pico and Douglas. These birds, who hatched in June 2024, have quickly grown to the size of adult rockhoppers, though their iconic yellow crest feathers have yet to appear.
The Story Behind the Names
Pico, whose name means “beak” in Spanish, honors the penguin’s South American roots, while Douglas is named after a settlement on East Falkland Island, home to many rockhopper penguins. The names were chosen through staff suggestions and support from Shedd enthusiasts.
The Penguins’ Progress
Both penguins have taken their first swim, started eating independently, and have begun bonding with the other penguins in the colony. As the youngest members of the rockhopper colony, Pico and Douglas stand out for their lack of yellow crest feathers. This feature will develop after their first molt, usually around their first year.
Shedd’s Penguin Program
Shedd Aquarium participates in the Species Survival Plan for rockhopper penguins, a program involving 16 U.S. zoos and aquariums to protect and manage the species. The aquarium also researches how climate change is affecting wild penguin populations, using these findings to guide conservation efforts.
Getting Up Close and Personal
Guests can see Pico and Douglas in the Polar Play Zone, where they share their habitat with other penguins. Shedd’s penguin colony offers a chance to see the full life cycle of a penguin – from nesting to hatching to molting season.
Conclusion
Pico and Douglas are just the latest additions to Shedd Aquarium’s thriving penguin colony. With their unique names and charming personalities, these young birds are sure to capture the hearts of visitors and inspire a love of penguins and conservation.
FAQs
* Q: What is the Species Survival Plan for rockhopper penguins?
A: The Species Survival Plan is a program involving 16 U.S. zoos and aquariums to protect and manage the rockhopper penguin species.
* Q: How do Shedd Aquarium’s penguin research efforts contribute to conservation efforts?
A: Shedd Aquarium researches how climate change is affecting wild penguin populations, using these findings to guide conservation efforts.
* Q: Where can I see Pico and Douglas?
A: Pico and Douglas can be seen in the Polar Play Zone, where they share their habitat with other penguins.
