Pair of baby penguins arrive at Newquay Zoo
The eggs have hatched there in recent weeks for two sets of parents
Two Humboldt penguin chicks have arrived at Newquay Zoo - and are doing well according to keepers.
The little ones have hatched in recent weeks, to parents Ebony and Patch; and Oreo and Humbug.
Ebony is Newquay's oldest penguin, aged 28, and has been with partner Patch for around two decades.
It's also the first ever chick for Oreo and Humbug.
Senior Keeper Dan Trevelyan said: “We’re thrilled to welcome two new chicks to the colony. Ebony and Patch are experienced and reliable parents who’ve successfully raised several offspring over the years, and it’s fantastic to see Oreo and Humbug stepping up as first-time parents. This is a critical period for the chicks, so while everything is going well, we’re monitoring them closely to ensure they stay healthy and strong.”
The Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus humboldti), native to the coastal regions of Peru and Chile, is currently listed as Vulnerable.
Threatened by habitat loss, overfishing, and climate change, Humboldt penguins are part of coordinated breeding efforts across European zoos.
Newquay Zoo has housed a thriving penguin colony since the zoo opened back in 1969 and remains committed to species conservation and education.
The new chicks remain safely tucked in their burrows next to the penguin pool, but visitors might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse.
They're likely to start going on public display in the coming weeks.