Navigationally Challenged Emperor Penguin Bound for Zoo Rehab
06/27/2011
A woman and her dog were casually walking a New Zealand beach last week when she was astonished to discover an emperor penguin --- which was notable as this wayward penguin was totally in the wrong place -- 2,000 miles off course to be exact! Estimated to be about 10 months old and 32 inches tall, this beautiful emperor penguin was likely born during the last Antarctic winter and may have been searching for squid and krill when it got lost, experts have said.
Penguins are no strangers to New Zealand beaches, as the country has several species including the rare yellow-eyed Hoiho and the common blue or "Little Penguin." Yet an emperor penguin has not swum up on these shores since 1967.
The penguin appeared healthy when he was first spotted on picturesque Peka Peka Beach on New Zealand's North Island -- and wildlife officials initially were going to let him be to find his way back, but it became more clear that his health was in jeopardy, as this poor little fellow had mistakenly been eating sand it mistook for snow! Local Wildlife officials stepped in Friday and moved the ailing young bird to a zoo where surgery was planned to clear its throat of sticks and sand.
Wellington Zoo staff said the bird was dehydrated and suffering heat exhaustion. Here's wishing a rapid recovery to this navigationally challenged little guy!
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