CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Those visiting the Shedd Aquarium any time soon will have the opportunity to come face-to-face with the newest arrivals to join the penguin colony.
Shedd Aquarium is officially introducing the four Magellanic penguin juveniles to the public, making them visible to guests that visit the aquarium. Three of the birds have also officially received their names to be identified.
Select donors of the aquarium, who are long-time supporters of the non-profit organization, and animal care teams helped choose names for the penguins:
• Rosie, female – named to signify Rosario, Argentina or Santa Rosa, Argentina, by Marci Matthews and Akron Children’s Hospital. The hospital held a special virtual penguin encounter for families to meet the juvenile bird and other birds, learn first-hand from animal care team members about penguins, and vote for the name in real-time.
• Loma, female – reflects Punta Loma, Argentina chosen by Shedd’s animal care team
• Stewart, male – represents Isla Stewart (Stewart Island), Chile chosen by Shedd’s animal care team
• Another male bird who is the most vocal of the group, will receive its name from a longtime and generous supporter of the aquarium
Even though they are still considered juveniles, the Shedd said these penguins are now fully grown, already reaching the height of many adult birds in the colony. The newcomers also began eating fish, socializing with adult birds, interacting with animal care staff, and more.
Visitors have a chance to come face-to-face with these new additions, which can be identified by their lighter feathers, along with the rest of the colony of over 30 Magellanic and rockhopper penguins in the aquarium’s Polar Play Zone.
Guests can also attend an on-site penguin encounter for a more in-depth experience with the birds.
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