Penguins in your pocket!
Download our Pocket Penguins app for iPhone, Android, and AppleTV to stream the antics of our African penguin colony 24/7.
Why did the exhibit need to be closed?
The penguin exhibit was constructed more than six years ago and it is quite common to update aquarium displays and facilities every few years. Biologists and engineers will need to perform routine maintenance and upkeep that includes refinishing the rockwork, polishing the acrylic windows, and upgrades to the life-support water systems. In order to successfully complete this work and keep the animals happy and healthy, biologists must remove all live animals from the exhibit during the renovation period.
Fun fact: our African penguins share their home with four striped pyjama sharks. These sharks are nocturnal and retreat to underwater caves for much of the day. In an effort to better accommodate all species in the exhibit, Academy biologists and engineers will also build new underwater shark caves.
Where did the penguins go during the closure?
The entire penguin colony will move together to a behind-the-scenes animal holding room in our aquarium. The room is specifically designed to comfortably house live animals during times of transition or used as a quarantine space when new animals arrive at the aquarium.
Will the penguins still receive twice daily feedings in their temporary space?
Absolutely! Our penguins will continue to receive their twice-daily helpings of herring and capelin fish and lots of enrichment time with our biologists.
How can I continue to get my African penguin fix?
Our Pocket Penguins mobile app is one of the best ways to stay up to date on our African penguin colony—anytime, anywhere. During the renovation, the app will play an exclusive video reel showing the penguins at feeding time, socializing with other birds, and splashing above and below water.
When will the penguins return to the exhibit?
Biologists and engineers hope to have renovations completed by early February. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay up to date on the status of the project!