Melbourne Adventure | Part 3, Melbourne Aquarium, Cont' (Penguins)

One of the few underwater photos that turned out ok, THEY WERE SO QUICK

are you watching me while I'm in the bath?!

Hey Everyone,

ok, so yesterday I said today I'd be writing about the gardens I visited, however, after I published the last post I realised... I FORGOT THE PENGUINS, honestly, I couldn't possibly let you all miss out on hearing about these amazing Penguins.

so, to bulk up this post so it's not just a couple of words I figured I'd write out this information signs that were in front of the exhibit.

These were written on the signs so therefore are not my property and are likely the property of the Melbourne Aquarium.

a mother's content

Gentoo Penguins

CHEEKY AND FEISTY

Scientific Name: Pygoscelis papua

Maximum Size: 85 centimetres

Life Span: 15 to 20 years

Population: 640,000

Gentoo penguins are active little characters with an amazing supply of energy.  They are the fastest underwater swimming bird in the world and can reach up to 36 kilometres per hour.  While they can sometimes look a little clumsy on land as they waddle through the snow, Gentoo penguins can out-run humans over short distances.  These cheeky penguins are curious and outgoing, which leads to a habit of investigating and interacting with anything new.  Gentoo penguins often call out to each other with a honking sound and sing together in a loud chorus.

strike a pose

DINING DELIGHTS

King and Gentoo penguins savour particular flavours.  Only the highest-priced platter at the most exclusive seafoo rastaurant would tickle the taste buds of these fussy eaters.  Their most prized delicacies are Lantern fish and Rock cod, with squid, krill and other crustaceans being the perfect side dishes.  Instead of using cutlery to grip food, penguins have specialised tongues that are covered with dozens of small spines pointing backwards into the throat to prevent tasty morsels from escaping.

BABY PENGIN

HEATING HABITS

These penguins are cool characters with hot bodies, as they have two different but extremely effective insulation methods for surviving Antactica's freezing climate.  While their outer feathers are covered in oil which acts like a waterproof jacket, a thick feathering inner coat insulates penguins from the elements.  A penguin's nose also knows how to keep it warm. It has a complex heat exchange system that allows warmth to be retained when they breathe out.

Well, Happy Gardening,

and hopefully tomorrow shall bring some beautiful gardens,

Michael