Splash, Play, Explore: The Penguins are coming!

Opening Memorial Day Weekend

Roger Williams Park Zoo is diving into summer with a splash—welcoming a dozen quirky, sun-loving penguins in a brand-new exhibit opening this Memorial Day weekend. The zoo’s website says the new exhibit will be located in the former Seal exhibit area.

Most people imagine snow and ice when they think of penguins, but our Humboldt penguins are from the hot, arid coastal regions of Chile and Peru; Humboldt penguins inhabit these coastal regions, favoring rocky environments near nutrient-dense waters.

Humboldt penguins stand 15-18 inches tall and weigh about 9 pounds. Their waterproof, insulating feathers are maintained by constant preening with oil from their preen gland. These marine birds consume a diet of fish, squid, and crustaceans.

There were more than a million Humboldt penguins in the mid-19th century, since 1988 they are listed as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN); their population continues to decline, with estimates of about 12,000 breeding pairs.

Primary threats to their survival include overfishing of essential prey species, accidental capture in fishing nets, and climate change disrupting food sources. Additionally, guano harvesting for fertilizer destroys crucial nesting sites, further endangering the species. Among the world’s 17 penguin species, Humboldt penguins are notably at high risk.

The Zoo is committed to the long-term viability of Humboldt penguins through its involvement in the Species Survival Plan® (SSP). This program facilitates collaborative breeding and transfer initiatives with other accredited zoos and aquariums, thereby promoting a healthy and genetically diverse population.

Roger Williams Park Zoo last had penguins in 2013 and will now be one of only 24 facilities in North America to care for this species.

The coming of the penguins was made possible by a controversial $1M allocation of COVID funds from the City of Providence under Mayor Elorza.

Tickets

Tickets may be purchased for general admission to the zoo, HERE – https://rwpzoo.ticketapp.org/portal/product/8. There are no special ticket prices noted for the penguin exhibit. Ticket prices are normally $22 for Adults (13+) – $16 for Children (2-12) – $18 for Seniors (62+) – no cost for Toddlers under 2.

MAP: Go HERE for full map: https://www.rwpzoo.org/zoo-map/ – On this section of the full map, see the area in light blue that is labeled COASTAL HABITAT – that’s where the penguins will be located.

About Roger Williams Park Zoo

Roger Williams Park Zoo is Rhode Island’s number one outdoor family and tourist attraction, and a leader in conservation efforts undertaken by a zoo of its size. As leaders in conservation and animal care – we create engaging experiences that empower guests to join us in conserving wildlife and wild places. Roger Williams Park Zoo is supported and managed by the Rhode Island Zoological Society and is owned by the City of Providence.  Roger Williams Park Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.