Rare Penguin chick from world's smallest species born at SEA LIFE Weymouth
Fairy penguin Henry will make his debut to visitors during February half-term
A Penguin chick from the smallest species in the world has been born at a sea life centre in Dorset.
SEA LIFE Weymouth is celebrating the arrival of Henry who is a fairy Penguin.
Born on 30th January, Henry represents a key milestone for Europe's only little penguin breeding colony.
His hatching required careful intervention from SEA LIFE's expert animal care team after he struggled to free himself from his shell.
Henry is the second egg from first-time parents Tyrion and Dandy.
Staff decided to hand-reared him to maximize his survival chances while his sibling is raised naturally by his parents.
He's already making good progress and has quickly adapted to solid food without needing liquidized meals.
Sea Life say a cuddly toy penguin currently keeps the little chick company as he awaits potential siblings from other eggs still incubating.
He will stay in the hatchery for 40-45 days before moving to the main penguin enclosure upon completing his first moult and passing a swimming test.
Henry's arrival brings the number of little penguins at SEA LIFE Weymouth to 42.
The aquarium's breeding program began six years ago, pioneering conservation efforts for the species in Europe.
Seb Webster, General Manager at SEA LIFE Weymouth, said:S
“Henry's arrival has been absolutely magical for the whole team. Watching him break free from his shell, with a little helping hand from our animal care experts, was an incredibly special moment."
“Henry's successful hatching is a wonderful testament to six years of dedicated breeding work here at SEA LIFE Weymouth. As Europe's only little penguin colony, every new arrival is significant.”
Henry will make his first appearance to visitors in the February half term holidays.