A Retirement Haven for Geriatric Penguins
In the bustling penguin colony at the New England Aquarium in Boston, etiquette reigns supreme during mealtime. However, the most well-mannered diners are now found on a special island created exclusively for birds of a certain age. This unique sanctuary is home to geriatric African penguins who no longer have to compete with younger, more aggressive birds for food. The island was introduced to address the growing number of aging penguins at the aquarium, many of whom are living well beyond their expected lifespan in the wild, which typically ranges from 10 to 15 years. Some have even doubled that age, with a few remarkable individuals reaching their 30s.
The island, fondly referred to as a "country club for older animals" by Kristen McMahon, the aquarium’s curator of pinnipeds and penguins, provides a peaceful and stress-free environment for its residents. Since its opening in February, six seabirds have been relocated to this sanctuary, where they can enjoy their meals without the chaos and competition of the main colony. A mesh gate separates the retirement island from the three other islands inhabited by younger penguins, allowing the older birds to still see their fellow seabirds but from a quiet, rocky perch. This separation has led to a noticeable reduction in noise and territorial behavior, with the geriatric penguins spending more time resting and laying down.
Specialized Care for Aging Penguins
The residents of the retirement island receive specialized care tailored to their advanced age. Many of these penguins are monitored closely for age-related ailments such as cataracts and arthritis. Their diet consists of fish injected with extra water to support kidney health, and they receive regular treatments, including eye drops, physical therapy, and even acupuncture. This unique approach to their care is designed to provide a slower-paced and more comfortable environment, where the veterinary and training teams can keep a close eye on their well-being. McMahon explained, "We wanted a space that was a little bit lower-paced and more easily observed by the veterinarian team and our training team on a daily basis."
The aquarium’s efforts to create a serene and supportive environment for these aging penguins are especially important given the critically endangered status of African penguins. In the wild, these birds face numerous threats, including overfishing, climate change, and pollution, which have significantly reduced their populations. Conservationists warn that African penguins could become extinct by 2035 if these threats are not addressed. Christina Hagen, the Pamela Isdell Fellow of Penguin Conservation at BirdLife South Africa, noted that the life expectancy of wild African penguins is likely much lower than previously estimated due to high adult mortality rates.
Conservation Efforts and the Role of the Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is actively involved in conservation efforts to protect African penguins. As a nonprofit institution dedicated to marine conservation and research, the aquarium is home to more than 10,000 marine animals, including a thriving colony of African penguins. The aquarium’s specialized care and protected environment allow these birds to live much longer than their wild counterparts, who face constant threats to their survival. In addition to providing a safe haven for aging penguins, the aquarium is also working to support the recovery of wild populations. Last year, one of their trainers traveled to South Africa to help rehabilitate rescued African penguins, and another trainer is set to make the journey this year.
The aquarium’s commitment to conservation is further highlighted by its innovative approaches to animal care. For example, some of the older penguins on the retirement island have undergone acupuncture sessions to alleviate arthritis in their spines. This rare treatment, administered by an acupuncturist who also works with humans, has been remarkably effective. During these sessions, the penguins are placed on a small table in a dimly lit room, where needles are carefully inserted into specific points on their backs, hips, and sometimes even the tops of their heads. Dr. Melissa Joblon, the aquarium’s director of animal health, shared that some penguins become so relaxed during these sessions that they even fall asleep.
Life on the Retirement Island
The retirement island is not just a place of relaxation but also a space for healing and renewal. One of its residents, a 32-year-old penguin named Lambert, underwent surgery to remove one of his eyes due to chronic glaucoma. Since moving to the island, Lambert has been able to explore and even chase his partner, Dyer, who is significantly younger at 14 years old. Dr. Joblon described Lambert’s transformation, saying, "He’ll kind of bounce around the island like a younger bird." Another couple, Harlequin and Durban, both in their 30s, have also found a peaceful home on the island. The sanctuary also provides a safe space for two female penguins, Boulder and Isis, who had struggled to find their place in the main colony. Isis, in particular, had been pushed around by more dominant birds, but on the retirement island, she is finally able to build her own space and feel comfortable.
Looking Ahead: Enhancements and Expansion
As the retirement island continues to serve as a haven for aging penguins, the aquarium’s team is exploring ways to make the space even more accessible and comfortable for its residents. Modifications are being considered to help penguins with limited mobility navigate the island more easily. Additionally, the island could potentially serve as a recovery space for younger birds undergoing medical treatment. For now, the aquarium’s oldest African penguin, Good Hope, aged 35, and his mate, St. Croix, aged 23, are preparing to join the retirement island. Once they are settled, the aquarium does not plan to move any additional birds to the sanctuary, allowing this remarkable group of penguins to "live in harmony."
This retirement island is more than just a place for aging penguins to spend their final years; it represents a commitment to providing a dignified and comfortable quality of life for these incredible animals. As the New England Aquarium continues to lead in marine conservation and animal care, the story of these geriatric penguins serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving critically endangered species like the African penguin.
