Cute penguin chicks being hand-reared in Cornwall

Two penguin chicks are being hand-reared by keepers at Paradise Park in Hayle in Cornwall.

Keeper Bev Tanner with the plucky pair Credit: Paradise Park

As the two chicks grow, they will gradually be introduced to the main colony.

In fine weather, they will spend time in the nursery area near the penguin pool. They are unlikely to have their first swim until July but they will be then on show to the public - especially at the attraction's twice daily penguin feeding and talk times.

Pedro and Perdy will get their black and white penguin look when they are about a year old Credit: Paradise Park

When chicks are in the nest they have fluffy grey down feathers. It takes about three months for them to leave their nests, and by this time they have develop the waterproof plumage they need for swimming.

Juveniles are grey and white, only developing the distinctive black and white penguin plumage at a year old. The pattern of dark speckles on the adult lower chest, are unique to each penguin, identifying each individual.

  • Cute alert! Watch a video of Pedro and Perdy the penguin chicks