North America's oldest macaroni penguins mark their 40th year
Best Friend, a macaroni penguin living at SeaWorld San Diego, celebrated his 40th birthday. Photo: SeaWorld San Diego
Two macaroni penguins in North America have celebrated their remarkable 40th birthdays, defying the typical lifespan of their species.
Best Friend, residing at SeaWorld San Diego, is now recognised as the oldest known macaroni penguin in the region, while Mickey, a resident of the Pittsburgh Zoo, is also one of the oldest macaroni penguins in North America.
Best Friend, affectionately called the "most precious old man" at SeaWorld, surpassed the average lifespan of a macaroni penguin in the wild, which typically ranges from 15 to 20 years. At 40, Best Friend suffers from failing eyesight, but his keepers say his hearing remains sharp, and he can recognise their voices.
His favourite activities include bubble-blowing antics in his water tray, playing with trickling hoses, and letting out ecstatic calls when spoken to. On occasion, Best Friend enjoys curling up in a lap for a cosy nap.
In Pittsburgh, Mickey, who hatched in 1984, marked her milestone birthday with a special celebration. After a morning swim, she was presented with a cake decorated with fish, shrimp, and scallop icing.
The Pittsburgh Zoo staff described Mickey as “fabulously feisty” and said her longevity was a testament to the excellent care she receives. Mickey, who was hand-reared, is known to trumpet, a sound of happiness, when meeting new people. She also has a special bond with her keepers and is well-loved by visitors to the zoo.
The macaroni penguin, named for the golden tuft of feathers on top of its head, is the world’s most abundant penguin species, with populations of up to 100,000 individuals. Despite this, their numbers have been in decline, and the species is now classified as vulnerable.
According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, penguins under human care have a median life expectancy of about 26 years.
The longevity of both Mickey and Best Friend highlights the excellent care they receive from their respective institutions and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the species in the wild.