My Story

WING SLAP!

Just kidding, that was my Hulk side talking. Hi, I’m Bruce Banner, the mild-mannered chick-turned-super penguin at the Columbus Zoo. I hatched in 2021, raised by my wonderful foster parents, Chirriante and Asela Belfontaine, but my true lineage? That’s where things get interesting. I’m the biological son of the infamous Oswald Cobblepot (Oz Cobb) and younger brother to Charmin McSnugglebum, a Dazzling Dozen contender in last year’s March of the Penguin Madness.

At first, I was the best little “tuxedo chicken,” learning all my penguin skills like swimming, playing with toys, and charming keepers. But then, something changed. I Hulked out!

If my fish isn’t just right? WING SLAP!
Exciting new toy? Run around, and then WING SLAP!
Another penguin in my spot? WING SLAP!

My keepers quickly realized I needed a calming ritual. And just like my superhero counterpart, a little preening around my head and neck soothes the beast and brings me back to my sweet, but still very opinionated, self.

Beyond my big personality, I’m a dedicated nest builder for my mate, Malia. My nest isn’t just good, it’s the best! I’ve filled it with the finest decorations, including literal stolen hearts, as our keepers make them out of carwash material for Penguin-tine messages. I guard my territory fiercely, but I do allow my keepers to do their jobs as long as I get my preening session! And, of course, my favorite color? The answer is green, for obvious reasons.

So, are you ready to let a little chaos into your life?

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