New enclosure at Dublin Zoo aims to help Humboldt penguins to breed
RONAN McGREEVY
The enclosure features oversized Donegal sandstone and many tonnes of sand which reflects the natural habitat of the colony of seven male and seven female Humboldt penguins.
Contrary to popular perception, the birds are from
Zoo director Leo Oosterweghel said the more naturalised environment would help the colony to breed.
“The inspiration has to come from nature,” he said. “They love burrowing and it is a softer, planted, more pleasant environment. We desperately want to increase the numbers of these birds.”
Mr Oosterweghel said the new glass enclosure would allow for a “nose to beak experience” with a penguin.
The presence of penguins
In 1996, all but one of the colony died in mysterious circumstances which was initially thought to have been caused by toxic paint. The penguins were replaced two years later.
The revamped enclosure is sponsored by McVitie’s who make the Penguin chocolate bars. The company is also sponsoring the new children’s
Dublin Zoo is hosting a penguin-themed treasure hunt this weekend.
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