Penguin couple defy odds to reach 24-year anniversary

Ripu Bhatia Reporter from Central Leader

A penguin couple at Kelly Tarlton’s aquarium are only year off their silver anniversary, a rare feat as penguins don’t always mate for life

Buster and 99 have nested together for 24 years, and reared 19 babies in that time.

Their eldest Goofy will turn 24 this year.

Penguin keeper said Kristen Buckley said after 24 years together the pair have their nesting routine down pat.

“We are so happy to see Buster & 99 coupling up for yet another nesting season this year – as they are our longest-standing couple in the Gentoo Penguin colony,” she said.

“Year after year we see them sharing the nest building and egg incubating responsibilities like the seasoned parents they are!”

Buckley said it is crucial that penguins make sure they are with good partner.

“Unlike other birds where one parent can raise a whole clutch of eggs by themselves, both penguin parents need to work together to successfully raise their chicks,” she said.

“They can't afford to have a partner that isn't very good at catching food or finding nesting material because this means that their chicks are very unlikely to make it to adulthood.”