South Africa is in a national lockdown. But for these penguins, it’s time to let loose
The penguins of the Two Oceans Aquarium are on the loose. While the rest of South Africa is under national lockdown to prevent the spread of COVID-19, these birds are hopping out of their enclosures and embarking on a grand adventure. During this time of uncertainty, their adorable antics are giving people a reason to smile.
Since its inception in 1995, the Cape Town aquarium has been open to the public 365 days a year. But as a result of the virus plaguing the globe, the world-renowned marine attraction has been forced to temporarily close. This offers the penguins a chance to tour the different exhibits and experience what it’s like to be a guest in their own home. The staff, who are still dedicated to caring for the aquarium’s inhabitants, lead their feathered companions around. Waddling down a daunting flight of stairs, African and rockhopper penguins ruff their tails in excitement before exploring the environment, without any crowds to interrupt their expedition.
In films, penguins have been depicted as nifty creatures who are keen to escape. But for our local birds, there's no better place to be. The Two Oceans Aquarium rescues injured and abandoned penguins and gives them a safe home. The penguin exhibit is an area overflowing with undulating water and a network of passages, and the birds have free reign to move as they please. Now, their pathways have been extended. As these penguins smile and wave in their own way, their joy is bringing a moment of light to a world currently shrouded in darkness.
