Potter Park Zoo is happy to announce the hatching of two Magellanic penguin chicks June 16 and 19, 2024, marking the second consecutive successful breeding for parents Jayde and Skipper. Sweeney, their chick that hatched last year, still resides at the zoo.
“Having our second consecutive hatch is very rewarding and inspiring for our team. This is the first time in over ten years that two eggs have successfully hatched,” said lead bird and herp keeper Jake Brodie.
Native to the southern regions of South America, Magellanic penguins face numerous challenges and are classified as an endangered species due to human impact and environmental changes. The conservation efforts to protect these penguins are critical and Potter Park Zoo is proud to contribute to these efforts.
Skipper and Jayde have shown remarkable dedication in nurturing their young. They take turns incubating the eggs, providing balanced warmth and protection. Once hatched, the chicks rely on a diet of regurgitated food from their parents, ensuring they grow healthy and strong. The journey of our Magellanic penguin chicks from delicate beginnings to vibrant present is a true wonder. The attentive care provided by their parents, along with the vigilant observations from our dedicated animal care and veterinary teams, has been instrumental in the chicks’ growth and development.
Currently, the chicks are spending their time off-exhibit, where they are being carefully monitored by our animal care team. As they continue to grow, their down feathers will gradually be replaced by juvenile feathers, marking their transition to adolescent penguins ready to explore their surroundings. Once this developmental milestone is reached, the chicks will make their public debut.
For the latest updates and an exclusive peek into the journey of our Magellanic penguin chicks, we invite you to visit the Potter Park Zoo website and follow us on our social media platforms!
