Humboldt Penguins

 

9/20/22 Humboldt penguin, Woodland Park Zoo

At a recent visit to the Woodland Park Zoo, we got an unexpected treat: We arrived at the Humboldt penguin exhibit just as the keeper was about to feed them. The penguin exhibit had been closed for a while due to avian virus risks, so it was good to see the birds again.

Surprisingly patient and orderly, the penguins slowly and quietly surrounded him as he held a bucket of herrings. Calling each by name, the keeper fed them individually to make sure each got one and wasn’t hogging more than its share. Some of the names I heard were Merlin, Groucho, Domingo, Diego, Chewie and Fiona. He seemed to be taking attendance, and when most had been fed, he looked around for ones he knew he had missed, calling for them.

I recognized John, the keeper, from a 2016 visit, when newly hatched flamingoes were the main attraction. I’m sure it’s not all fun and glamour, but it’s hard not to have at least a little envy for someone who gets paid to cuddle flamingo chicks and knows members of the large penguin flock by name.

A couple other zoo residents I sketched: orangutan and Malayan tapir.

Patiently waiting for herrings from keeper John. They must know they don't have to rush him because their names will be called when it's their turn!