Penguin chicks weighing the same as a kiwi fruit have hatched at Edinburgh Zoo

Penguin chick season has officially begun at Edinburgh Zoo, where two Northern rockhoppers weighing just 63g and 95g have hatched just in time for World Penguin Day (Saturday 25 April). Born to parents Bruce and Pinhead, and Wesley and Penny, the new hatchlings are already wooing keepers with their personalities.  

Alison MacLean, animal team leader at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “This is my favourite time of year. The chicks are so tiny at this stage, weighing the same a small kiwi fruit. One is very vocal at weigh-in while the other prefers to snuggle under the parents and avoid the spotlight.

“What makes this extra special is that Northern rockhoppers are Endangered. Being able to contribute to the breeding programme, which ensures a healthy and genetically diverse population in zoos, is wonderful.”

The chicks are weighed daily and closely monitored during their first 30 days to ensure they remain healthy.  

During each check, a keeper gently lifts the chick from beneath its parent and places it on a scale. Its weight is recorded before it is carefully returned. The entire process takes less than a minute and is designed to minimise disturbance, keeping both chicks and parents calm and comfortable.

Penguin keepers at Edinburgh Zoo are hopeful for more chicks hatching in coming days.  

Keen visitors will be able to spot the chicks being cared for by their parents at Penguins Rock, the largest outdoor penguin pool in Europe.