Have you ever wondered what it’s like to experience an animal habitat at a zoo from the animal’s perspective? Then you will want to bring your colony to a Malott Family Penguin Encounter at Lincoln Park Zoo.
“Our African penguin habitat was built in 2016 with penguin encounters in mind,” says Maureen Leahy, vice president of animal care and horticulture. “These penguin encounters go beyond mere observation. This experience is all about immersion within the penguins’ habitat.”
Immerse yourself in the penguin’s world
After a brief hiatus due to Covid-19, Malott Family Penguin Encounters are back and are better than ever, Leahy says.
During your 60-minute session, you’ll spend a portion seated in the natural rockwork of the penguin habitat, up close and personal with the birds. With a maximum of eight guests per session, and guided by both an educator and a zookeeper, the experience is intimate and educational.
The penguins can choose to waddle over and interact — or not.
“This Penguin Encounter program is designed to ensure the penguins have the choice to be in the environment with guests,” explains Leahy. “This setup respects their natural behaviors and comfort, making it a truly unique and respectful experience for both the animals and our visitors.”
And don’t worry — you will see plenty of penguin antics. “Penguins have a lot of drama,” Leahy says with a laugh. “They are always forming different friendships and partnerships.”
To set a calm yet fun tone before the penguins have the opportunity to join your group, you will receive facts about the penguins’ native habitat and adaptations as well as tips to safely navigate the penguin habitat. You can’t touch the penguins, but they can choose to get up close and personal with you.
“Some of our zookeepers are also dedicated conservationists, who have traveled to South Africa to assist with penguin rescue and rehabilitation efforts to help bolster the wild African penguin population,” says Leahy.
Meet the penguins
The zoo’s colony of 21 African penguins includes 13 males and eight females, each with unique personalities. From the social dynamics and relationship dramas to the charming quirks of individuals like Phil and Pilchard, you’ll get a rare view of penguin life.
Each year there are new participants in the encounter, like Oliver and Luna, who add a fresh dimension to the experience, says Leahy.
“Each penguin has its own personality, and seeing these traits shine during encounters is something truly special. It adds a personal touch to the experience and helps visitors connect with the animals on a deeper level,” she notes.
Fun facts about Lincoln Park Zoo’s African penguins:
- They are social creatures: African penguins are highly social, often forming close bonds and engaging in playful antics.
- They love shiny objects: Penguins are attracted to shiny objects, mimicking the shiny schools of fish they hunt in the wild. Enrichment activities often include mirrors and other reflective items.
- They have distinct personalities: Each penguin is different, from the curious and bold to the more reserved. These traits are highlighted during encounters, making each visit unique.
Educational and engaging
Children and parents alike can enjoy interactive activities that not only entertain but also educate. You will learn about penguin behavior, conservation efforts and what you can do to help protect these amazing birds.
“Education is a key component of our Penguin Encounter,” says Leahy. “We want families to leave with a deeper understanding of these incredible birds and the conservation efforts that are so crucial to their survival.”
Ensuring penguin well-being
Optimal animal welfare is paramount for all animals at Lincoln Park Zoo, Leahy says.
“These Penguin Encounters are designed with the penguins’ comfort in mind, and their participation is entirely voluntary. Our zookeepers and animal welfare scientists monitor their behavior and well-being to ensure they are comfortable and happy using tools like the ZooMonitor app.”
“Our priority is always the well-being of our animals,” Leahy explains.
The zoo’s innovative enrichment program also ensures the penguins are engaged and stimulated by providing an interactive habitat and novel items which encourage natural behaviors of these impeccable birds.
Zoo membership enhances the experience
Becoming a member of Lincoln Park Zoo comes with its perks, including discounted rates for the Malott Family Penguin Encounter. Members pay $70 per person, compared to the standard $80.
Your Lincoln Park Zoo membership also supports the zoo’s conservation and education efforts, ensuring the animals receive the best care possible.
In addition to discounted Penguin Encounter tickets, Lincoln Park Zoo members get discounted or free parking, depending on your membership level, tickets to ZooLights and other events, exclusive access to the annual Super Zoo Picnic and more. Membership starts at just $69.
Book your Penguin Encounter
Sessions are available from 10 am Wednesday to Sunday until Labor Day, and Friday to Sunday from Labor Day to October.
By experiencing Penguin Encounter at Lincoln Park Zoo, you’re not only creating unforgettable memories with your family but also supporting vital conservation efforts. So, grab your tickets, immerse yourself in the world of African penguins and make your next zoo visit truly extraordinary!
For more information and to book your encounter, visit lpzoo.org/visit/things-to-do/penguin-encounter.
