My Story

Hi there, I’m Hubert. I started off as a reserved guy, but thanks to training and a little confidence boost, I’ve become an excellent ambassador for my species. These days, when my keepers call my name, I run to join them, ready and eager to participate in training sessions and African Penguin Encounters.

This year, I hit a huge milestone: I became a first-time dad! And not a dad to just any chick—I helped rear our 50th African Penguin chick, the first to hatch here since 2020. From the very beginning, I took my role seriously. I spent weeks gathering materials to build a strong, cozy nest. Once my chick, Shubert, hatched, I rarely left his side. I kept him warm, safe, and well-fed, proving that penguin parenting is something I excel at.

Thanks to the trust I’ve built with my keepers, I’ve been comfortable having them near my chick. I allow them to observe us and learn more about African Penguins’ nesting and chick-rearing behaviors. My story is proof that training isn’t just about learning tricks, but it also helps penguins like me feel safe, confident, and ready to be the best ambassadors for our species.

I’m proud to represent African penguins and to show the world how important conservation efforts are for the future of my species!

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