SEA LIFE - London Aquarium - Gentoo Penguin

During the spring months, from 5pm onwards, you will notice that the lights in our penguin enclosure will be in low light or going into a sunset cycle of reds. This is to ensure we closely match the conditions found in the Southern Hemisphere – where Gentoo penguins are found. The variation in light cycles and temperature is designed to encourage their natural seasonal behaviour including a yearly moult, nesting and breeding. At this time of year that means the sun sets earlier at Penguin Point. This practice is based on years of worldwide experience in maintaining the best possible conditions and to ensure that Gentoo penguins breed successfully.

Penguins are playful! They love to slide down icy patches on their bellies and take turns to dive into the ocean. Did you know their black and white pattern is a form of camouflage? It helps them blend in with the water and keep safe from predators.

Penguins are found almost exclusively in the southern hemisphere. They are ‘flightless’ birds but they can soar through the water like a torpedo to catch fish! There are 17 species of penguins but they are running out of food! This is due to over-fishing and global warming.