The geriatric penguins will enjoy peace and quiet on their own private island.
By Morgan Rousseau March 15, 2025 (Thanks to Pam P.)
African penguins at the New England Aquarium will live well into their golden years on a new, private island specifically created for aging birds.
Aquarium officials announced that six of its geriatric birds, who range in age from 14 to 34, are settling into the new retirement retreat. The island is separate from the main penguin colony and is designed to provide a calm, comfortable environment that lets the animal care team keep an eye on the penguins, many of whom are experiencing medical conditions due to their age.
“Our goal is to take a proactive approach to managing geriatric animals in an environment that better meets their physical and behavioral needs,” said Kristen McMahon, the Aquarium’s Curator of Pinnipeds and Penguins.
More than half of the aquarium’s penguin colony has met or surpassed their typical life expectancy of 10 to 15 years in the wild. Last year, aquarium staff started reimagining the iconic penguin exhibit and how it could accommodate the aging birds. According to aquarium officials, the island features flat areas with mats and sloping ramps to make for easy access.
Aquarium staff gradually transitioned the elder penguins to their new island home over the past month. Among the residents are Harlequin and Durban, both age 32, who have been a pair since 2000 and raised eight chicks together.
Other penguin retirees include Boulders, 34, who is showing symptoms of arthritis, and Isis, 29, who has struggled socially as she’s aged. Joining them are Lambert, 32, who has a history of cataracts, and his younger mate Dyer, who is 14.
The older penguins have a special diet that contains hydrated fish that have been injected with extra water to promote kidney health. They also get daily eye drops, foot treatments to prevent infections, acupuncture, and physical therapy.
Aquarium staff monitors the birds both in-person and via video feed, looking for any changes in feeding and behavior that could indicate advanced-age ailments. However, aquarium officials said the tranquil area may also help other birds with specialized medical needs, regardless of age.
“We think of this island like assisted living, where we’re helping the birds be more comfortable in a calmer environment,” said Diana Major, Manager of Penguins. “The New England Aquarium places a high priority on husbandry, which involves specialized training to get the animals comfortable with healthcare. Being relaxed is key, and we think the new retirement home will ultimately lead to happier and healthier penguins.”