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The Academy has successfully bred African penguins as part of a species survival plan among partner Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) institutions since 1983. This collaborative breeding and exchange program maintains genetic diversity in resident populations and ensures that every hatch represents a conservation success for this endangered species. Since the Academy reopened its new building in 2008, the Steinhart Aquarium has welcomed eleven new chicks to the colony through its successful species survival program.

About African penguins at the Academy

A group of penguins in their habitat at the Academy

With their charming waddles, tuxedo-like pattern, and highly social behavior, the Academy's African penguins capture the hearts of thousands of visitors each day. Behind the scenes, dedicated animal care biologists work hard to ensure the colony is happy, healthy, and thriving.

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More to explore

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Visitors wander through African Hall, filled with dioramas on both sides and an African penguin colony at the far end.
Tusher African Hall
Explore our evolutionary history while surrounded by dioramas of African wildlife and splashing penguins.
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African penguin, Spheniscus demersus
African Penguin
African penguins establish strong pair bonds and use complex forms of communication in their social groups.
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Pocket Penguins iPhone app icon with two stylized penguins
Pocket Penguins App
Download our free app to stream our irresistible African penguin colony to your iPhone, Android, or AppleTV.
Live penguin webcams

Watch our African penguins waddle in HD! Tune in to feeding time at 10:30 am and 3 pm daily for extra cuteness.

Launch webcam