Pioneering chick arrives on coast

Bridie Jabour

December 15, 2011 -

Baby penguin takes first steps

RAW VISION: A baby Gentoo penguin goes on public display at Sea World after being laid in her egg more than a month ago.

A pioneering chick has arrived on the Gold Coast and is set to attract plenty of attention.
The Gentoo penguin hatched last week at Sea World - a first for the theme park.
Senior penguin keeper Katrina Krygger said it would be two months before the staff could determine whether it was a boy or a girl.

Sea World's new baby penguin. Photo: Sea World

"We have been really lucky to have the chick born in our first breeding season," she said.
"Mum and Dad are doing an exceptionally good job of feeding and looking after the chick as well."
The chick is already on public display in Sea World after its mother Bella laid her egg in the enclosure more than a month ago.

Feeding time for Sea World's new baby penguin. Photo: Sea World

Bella and the father JD then took turns looking after the egg in full view of visitors to Sea World.
The chick is yet to be named, with Sea World asking the public to help them by leaving their ideas for names on the park's Facebook page.
Ms Krygger said they would be selecting a name from the suggestions next week.
The chick weighs about 200 grams and will grow up fast, reaching its adult weight in about two months when it will weigh between five and seven kilograms.
"They have to grow up quickly because they are usually in such a cold climate," Ms Krygger said.

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