Sphen, half of world-famous same-sex penguin couple, dies at Sydney aquarium at age 11

Sphen, one half of the globally recognized same-sex penguin couple known as "Sphengic," has died at the age of 11 from apparent natural causes, according to the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. Sphen and his partner Magic, an 8-year-old male gentoo penguin, gained international fame in 2018 for their unique bond and successful parenting of two chicks, Lara and Clancy.

The aquarium announced the news on Thursday, revealing that they allowed Magic to see Sphen's body to help him understand why his partner would not return. "He immediately started singing, which was beautifully reciprocated by the colony," the statement noted.

Richard Dilly, the aquarium’s general manager, expressed the deep impact of Sphen’s death on both the penguin colony and the team. "The loss of Sphen is heartbreaking to the penguin colony, the team, and everyone who has been inspired or positively impacted by Sphen and Magic’s story," Dilly said. He added, "We want to take this opportunity to reflect and celebrate Sphen’s life, remembering what an icon he was."

Sphen lived a full life for a gentoo penguin, whose average lifespan ranges from 12 to 13 years. He and Magic were often seen together outside the breeding season, an unusual occurrence for their species. The pair became parents in 2018 when they successfully hatched a "backup" egg, resulting in the birth of their first chick, Lara. Two years later, they welcomed another chick, Clancy.

Sphen and Magic’s story has inspired a Mardi Gras float, been featured in the Netflix series Atypical, and is included in educational curricula in New South Wales. Their fame also allowed the aquarium to raise awareness for conservation efforts, including issues like plastic pollution and climate change.

Tributes from fans poured in on the aquarium’s website. One fan, Vivienne, wrote, "Resting in peace I hope, little guy. What a wonder to the world you were with your beautiful Magic." Another fan, Vicki, simply stated, "RIP to a champion. Love shows no boundaries."