SeaWorld Celebrates Penguins

In February 2008, SeaWorld celebrates an important Anniversary—25 years of SeaWorld San Diego’s Penguin Encounter. If you haven’t had a chance to visit, Penguin Encounter contains a spacious and chilly habitat inside, perfect for Antarctic and subantarctic penguins. The freezing temperature and austral (southern) light cycle mimic the natural conditions in which emperor, king, Adélie, macaroni, and gentoo penguins thrive. Near the natural breeding season, nesting materials are also provided to the penguins. In fact, in 1982 SeaWorld made history by being the first zoological park in the world to hatch and rear Emperor penguins. In the following years, we’ve learned a tremendous amount about these engaging birds. This month in Land, Sea and Air, you and your class can help SeaWorld celebrate these charismatic birds by exploring a variety of penguin-related information and activities. You can also watch how the penguins participated in the celebration at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gXcAkPh1_Y.