Research at other conservation organizations has shown that the more time Penguins spend on land, the more it can create issues of Pododermatitis. Consistently standing on flat ground often causes swelling, cracks or skin abrasions on the bottom of their feet.

To increase the penguins’ time in the pool, Wildlife Care began feeding them in the water to build positive associations. After completing safety steps and setting a protocol, they launched a voluntary “Swim Program,” starting in the small indoor pool with a Guardian in the water during feedings.

Initially only a few penguins participated, but over time more joined: some to eat, others simply to swim and interact. By late summer, the program expanded to the outdoor pool, where penguins began working with two Guardians in the water for social time without feeding.

By the end of summer, at least 50% of the colony would swim in the outdoor pool while a Guardian was present. When being fed in the pool inside, 95% of the colony will enter the water to eat voluntarily.

We will continue to collect data on how much time the penguins spend in the water now compared to previous years. We are excited to finally make progress on this new venture and build relationships with the African penguins in our care.