Video: 2 baby penguins hatch at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

 

Martha Ostergar

June 20, 2015

 

DRAPER — The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium released a video introducing its newest residents, two gentoo penguin chicks. 

The video shows the penguins as they hatched June 10, as well as their first forays into eating and figuring out their new world.

According to a written statement, the chicks are the first for the group of penguins at the aquarium in general and the first chicks for parents Sampson and Fria. More chicks are expected to hatch within the next few weeks.

In the wild, gentoo penguins typically lay two eggs a year, and it’s common for only one chick to survive. In light of this, one chick is being raised by its parents in the exhibit, and staff members are caring for the other chick off-exhibit.

“Gentoo penguins are very nurturing. Both parents work to build the circular nest made of stones. Once the eggs are laid, the mother and the father take turns sitting on it for about a month. The chicks remain in the nest for up to a month after they’re born,” the statement reads.

Aquarium staff said visitors may not be able to spot the chicks at the exhibit for the next few weeks, but you can always see what the penguins in the exhibit are up to by visiting the aquarium’s Penguin Cam online.

Check hours and ticket prices for the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium on its website.

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