6 Penguins Arrive At LA Zoo After More Than 4 Decades

LOS ANGELES, CA — For the first time in 42 years, Magellanic penguins are back at the Los Angeles Zoo.

The zoo announced Tuesday that six penguins have arrived and are now on display in the Rainforest of the Americas exhibit. The species hasn't lived at the zoo since 1984.

Two of the penguins came from the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, while the other four arrived from SeaWorld San Diego, according to zoo officials.

“We are thrilled to welcome these Magellanic penguins to the LA Zoo,” said Misha Body, the zoo's deputy director of animals and experiences. “Adding these dynamic birds to the Rainforest of the Americas will add a lot of activity and excitement to the habitat and will provide our guests with an engaging new way to connect with the diverse wildlife of South America.”

Native to the coasts of Argentina, Chile and the Falkland Islands, Magellanic penguins are known for their black-and-white feathers and two distinctive black bands across their chests.

Unlike penguins commonly associated with icy Antarctic habitats, the species lives in temperate climates, making it well-suited for Southern California's weather.

The birds are also skilled swimmers that hunt small fish, including anchovies and sardines, in the ocean.

Zoo officials said staff spent considerable time preparing the habitat to accommodate the penguins' environmental and social needs.

“Bringing Magellanic penguins back to the LA Zoo after more than four decades is a monumental milestone for our animal care team,” said Dominick Dorsa II, the zoo's director of animal care.

Although Magellanic penguins are classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, their wild populations are declining.

The species faces threats from oil pollution, conflicts with humans and climate change, which can affect ocean temperatures and reduce the availability of fish.

Visitors can now see all six penguins in their pool habitat at the Rainforest of the Americas exhibit.