Penguins exhibit opens March 21 at the South Carolina Aquarium
Four Magellanic penguins have a new their new home, Penguin Planet, at the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston. The birds, on loan from SeaWorld San Diego will be visiting the aquarium through March 2010.
“They are actively exploring their new habitat and adjusting well,” said Dr. Shane Boylan, the aquarium’s veterinarian. The birds, all male, were all hatched at SeaWorld parks.
Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) are distinguished by two brown stripes on their chests. They are a small bird ranging from 24-28 inches tall and average 8-11 pounds in weight. Magellanic penguins are typically found in the Falkland Islands, Chile and Argentina coasts. They prey on small fish and invertebrates. Natural predators for the birds include Southern sea lions, leopard seals, and Patagonian foxes. A near threatened species, there is estimated to be only 1,300,000 pairs of Magellanic penguins in the world.
Opening March 21, Penguin Planet will feature a Magellanic penguin habitat and 550 square feet of gallery space. Guests will be able to see the penguins through the exhibit’s 10 foot wide window allowing underwater viewing.
Penguin Planet is included in the general admission to the aquarium; $17, adults (ages 12-61); $16, seniors (62+); $10, child (2-11); free, toddler (0-1).
Penguin Planet grand opening festivities include special member only previews, a Penguins n’ Pajamas Family Sleepover on March 20, 2009, and the grand opening celebration on March 21.
Find out more about the penguins by clicking here.
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