The first penguin chicks have hatched this breeding season at Edinburgh Zoo.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has released photos and explains that five Rockhopper chicks and 10 gentoo chicks have made an appearance thus far. The first 30 days are crucial as with most young animals and birds and the charity will keep a close eye on the young birds.
Michael Livingstone, senior animal keeper at Edinburgh Zoo, said, “It is always a really fun time of year when the penguin chicks start to hatch. This year we are particularly excited because we have welcomed five Northern rockhopper chicks, which is the most we’ve ever had.
“The species is endangered in the wild due to climate change, changes in marine ecosystems and overfishing, so being able to contribute to the breeding programme, which ensures a healthy and genetically diverse population is zoos, is wonderful.”
Visitors will be able to spot the chicks being cared for by their parents at Edinburgh Zoo’s Penguins Rock, the largest outdoor penguin pool in Europe.
Book tickets online and save at edinburghzoo.org.uk/tickets.
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