So much is going on in our world today that it makes it difficult to focus on the positive. Even though we have positive things happening all around us, the negative things seem to be clouding our ability to remain optimistic and hopeful. Although this is a time where we do need to remain cautious, hearing some positive news could do us good. But where do you find it? Here on Metaspoon, of course!
One exciting thing that happened on April 2, 2020 was the birth of a baby blue penguin at Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey. The hatchling is the aquarium’s third baby penguin to have ever been born there. So far, things have been a success.
According to General Curator, Nicole Grandinetti, the penguin, who was born to parents Spud and Kirra, is “doing well and growing strong.”
“The chick is exhibiting normal behaviors, growing, active, and very vocal,” Grandinetti said. “Our animal care team continues to closely monitor her to ensure her health remains stable and positive during these critical first few weeks after birth. We are pleased to have a new addition to our Little Blue Penguin colony.”
Although she was less than two ounces when she was born, she now weighs approximately 11.6 ounces. And at just about a month old, the tiny bird is already munching on a diet of trout, silversides, and herring filets. She’s still too little, but eventually, she will join the rest of her blue penguin counterparts in the exhibit.
When the chick reaches adulthood, the penguin will weigh about two-and-a-half pounds and reach a height of approximately 10 inches. The Camden aquarium says blue penguins are the tiniest of all penguin species.
As you probably figured, blue penguins get their name based on their bluish feather color. This variety is commonly found in coastal areas of New Zealand and Southern Australia, and they live for approximately six years.
Sadly, with the current pandemic, aquarium guests will be unable to see the tiny penguin in person as the facility is temporarily closed.
The good news, however, is that the Adventure Aquarium is still ensuring fans are able to get well-acquainted with the little one. As of April 28, they’ve been asking fans to vote on a name. Voting options include Aroha, Grace, Hope, or Melody. (I personally love the name Melody.) The youngster’s name will be officially chosen and announced in early May.
Check out the sweet, baby penguin below, and make sure to vote on a name for her here!
