Photos: Adorable Penguin Chicks Born At South Carolina Riverbanks Zoo
Penguins are one of my favorite animals in the world. And this comes as a surprise to a lot of people because I’m actually terrified of birds. Like, will duck and run in the opposite direction if one flies too close to me. And seagulls on the beach? An actual nightmare. But there is something about the fact that penguins don’t fly instead they waddle and their beaks are quite as menacing as that of a crow, raven, or pigeon. I actually went to the Georiga Aquarium a few months ago and did their “Penguin Encounter” where I got to meet and pet (bucket list moment) an African Penguin. And there have been talks of doing the similar penguin program at the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC.
Penguins At The Riverbanks Zoo
So when I saw the announcement on social media that there were four penguin chicks born at the Riverbanks Zoo I couldn’t help but be excited! According to the post, seen above, the chicks are currently in their nests at the zoo. But once they venture out they will be moved out of view with their families while they learn and grow. How cute that they will be learning all about how to be a penguin from the comfort of a kiddie pool! If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the chicks going in the next day or so is recommended. Otherwise, they will be back on display in mid-August.
There are 18 species of penguins in the world. The ones at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia are King Penguins. These birds spend most of their time at sea, but in the wild nest in Antarctica. However, instead of a traditional nest, the Riverbanks Zoo says that ” king penguins have a mobile nest- right on top of their feet! The female will lay one egg and both parents will take turns incubating the egg by balancing it on top of their feet under a warm fold of skin.” Now that would be a sight to see!
Learn more about the Riverbanks Zoo and its king penguins here. And catch me visiting mid August to see these sweet babies!
Gallery: 10 Facts About Penguins
