Once again gay penguins have come to the rescue, offering brief reprieve from the relentless pessimism of Australia's news cycle with an overload of cuteness.
Sea Life Sydney's now-famous gay penguin couple, Sphen and Magic (Sphengic!), have welcomed their first baby chick.
The unnamed chick, born from an egg fostered by the two male penguins, was born on Friday 19th October at 5.45pm and weighed in at an adorable 91 grams.
“Baby Sphengic has already stolen our hearts! We love watching the proud parents doting and taking turns caring for their baby chick,” said Tish Hannan, Penguin Department Supervisor at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium.
“With that said, the first 20 days of a penguin chick’s life are the most vulnerable so it is extra important the chick is very happy, healthy and well fed by his parents.
“We can’t wait for the world to fall in love with Baby Sphengic like they did with our amazing same-sex couple, Sphen and Magic!”
According to a statement from the aquarium, the incubation period lasted roughly 36 days, with the tiny Gentoo penguin taking up to three days to crack free of its egg. The chick will now stay close to its dads for 5-6 weeks, before shedding its baby fluff and preparing for swimming lessons.
“Guests can visit Sphengic and their baby chick in the Penguin Expedition exhibit at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium,” Hannan said, encouraging visitors to experience the baby penguin up close and personal with the Penguin Passport experience.
Warmest congratulations to Sydney's cutest new dads!
