The New England Aquarium in Boston created a new retirement home for birds at an older age to ensure they're comfortable in a fitting environment. More than half of the aquarium's penguins has met or surpassed the typical life expectancy of 10 to 15 years in the wild. The solution? Recreate a penguin exhibit for the animals experiencing medical conditions from that older age. The aquarium's Curator of Pinnipeds and Penguins Kristen McMahon says the goal is to be proactive to help animals be in an environment that meet both physical and behavior needs. The team watched over the older penguins' behavior, feedings, and more to keep record of possible reasons of the penguin's injuries. Over the past month the staff transitioned six penguins over to their new home. African penguins are currently an endangered species on the coasts of South Africa and Namibia. The New England Aquarium is a partner with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums program specifically for African Penguins. The aquarium plans on sending a trainer to South Africa later this year to help rehabilitate wild African penguins.
Source: New England Aquarium