Two endangered penguin chicks hatch at Banham Zoo in Norfolk

Two penguins named Twix and Twirl have hatched at Banham Zoo <i>(Image: ZSEA)</i>
Two penguins named Twix and Twirl have hatched at Banham Zoo (Image: ZSEA)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A pair of endangered penguin chicks has hatched at a zoo in Norfolk.

The Black-footed penguin chicks, named Twix and Twirl, were born at Banham Zoo in March.

The species is native to the south-western coast of Africa and is under severe threat, with fewer than 20,000 believed to remain in the wild.

Penguin chicksThey arrived in March and opened their eyes in April (Image: ZSEA)

"It’s brilliant to see both chicks doing well, two at once certainly keeps them busy," Sophie Imhof, team leader of birds at Banham Zoo, said.

"Every hatch really matters for this species, as they are a critically endangered species with species numbers dropping 90pc in the last century.

"For now, Twix and Twirl are staying tucked up in the nest, exactly where they should be.

"But we look forward to seeing them adventure out in the coming months."

The chicks remain in their burrow and only opened their eyes at the start of April.

They are still entirely dependent on their parents, Kanene and Smithson.

Kanene is a long-term resident of Banham Zoo, while Smithson arrived from Birdworld in Surrey.

The pair have formed a new breeding partnership and are devoted parents.

Banham Zoo has invited the public to follow the chicks’ progress, though it will be some time before they are ready to emerge from the nest and meet visitors.

The rest of the zoo’s penguin colony will be visible during its May half-term ‘Zookeeper Club’ event, which runs from May 23 to 31 and includes animal games, challenges and activities.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos