Because humans typically don’t live near penguins’ natural habitats, the species’ annual population decline goes largely unnoticed. Penguin Awareness Day is a fantastic initiative to spread awareness of this important issue.
The Two Oceans Aquarium’s Penguin Experience is a fantastic, informative, and fun way to learn about the northern rockhopper penguin.
also read: Exciting adventures at the Two Oceans Aquarium
What is the Penguin Experience?
During a penguin experience, up to two people aged eight and above will have the opportunity to join a bird keeper for an educational, entertaining and thrilling up-close encounter with some feathered friends.
You will discover the stories of the penguins during this time, learn how the penguins at the Two Oceans Aquarium are cared for and have the opportunity to interact with them behind the scenes.
- The Penguin Experience happens Tuesdays to Sundays at 10.30am on the roof of the Kelp Forest Exhibit, where the rockhopper penguins enjoy their morning swim.
- The Penguin Experience is suited to children ages 8 and up, and adults.
- Bookings for the Penguin Experience may be temporarily closed if the birds are moulting, nesting or getting health checks. When you book, the team will let you know.
- The rockhopper penguins at the Two Oceans Aquarium were found stranded on southern Cape beaches and rehabilitated by the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) before being donated to the aquarium. They cannot be released because of the risk of introducing diseases into wild populations.
Some facts about rockhopper penguins from the Two Oceans Aquarium
- Rockhopper penguins are native to islands in the southern Indian and Atlantic Oceans.
- The name “rockhopper” comes from the fact that these penguins can climb cliffs and rocky shores on islands that would otherwise be hard to reach.
- Their yellow crests help these penguins see each other when hunting underwater, and they can wave them around to attract mates on land.
- Penguins are technically dinosaurs.
Details:
- Times: Tuesday to Sunday: 10am
- Location: Two Oceans Aquarium | Dock Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
- Contact: 021 418 3823 | [email protected]
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Picture: Two Oceans Aquarium / Facebook