- World Penguin Day or why I want a penguin
So, when you see my mom, please let her know that you think it would be a good idea for me to have a pet, I promise to take care of it and feed it little fishes. Although maybe I may just need to see about adopting a penguin, let me see what she says.
Until tomorrow,
Luv Ya, Beanie Marie
World Penguin Day on April 25 aims to raise awareness about these flightless birds to preserve their species so that future generations get to see these elegant and remarkable creatures. This day coincides with the annual northern migration of Adélie penguins, a pattern that is inherent and conserved across generations. There are eight species native to Antarctica. Most penguins are monogamous and have unique calls to assist them to find their mates in large groups. Most species lay up to two eggs in a season while the King and Emperor penguins lay only one. Alarmingly though, of the 18 known living species, 10 have been listed as endangered.
HISTORY OF WORLD PENGUIN DAY
This particular celebration of penguins was created at McMurdo Station, an American research center on Ross Island where researchers discovered that Adélie penguins start their migration around this day each year. So began World Penguin Day as a way to commemorate the event and raise awareness about these creatures. This day encourages people to learn more about penguins, the dangers they encounter, their environment, and their contribution to the environment.
Penguins differ considerably in size, from the large emperor penguin, reaching heights of over three feet and seven inches, to the little blue penguin which is about 13 inches tall. Historically, giant species of penguins existed that grew almost six feet high and weighed over 176 pounds. Penguins are highly adaptive to aquatic life, with their wings that have evolved into flippers and their excellent swimming abilities where species like the emperor penguin can reach deep depths of 1,800 feet. Penguins are disguised to protect themselves against predators from above and below. Their glossy feathers hold air in them that helps to both keep them warm and help them stay afloat. These extraordinary creatures are spread all over the Southern Hemisphere, from Antarctica to the Galápagos Islands, penguins are famous for their dedicated chick hatching endeavors, cute waddles, and amazing survival instincts such as huddling to stay warm during icy winters.
Our appreciation for penguins has inspired the creation of movies and books such as "Penguins of Madagascar" and "Mr. Popper's Penguins." Yet, they face extinction where a concerted effort is needed to help reduce our carbon footprint and prevent pollution to preserve their habitat.
WORLD PENGUIN DAY TIMELINE
1972
National Penguin Day Commences
National Penguin Day starts in 1972 when Gerry Wallace marked the start of the migration of the Adélie penguin on his wife's calendar.
2005
"March of the Penguins" This critically acclaimed French documentary follows the annual movements of emperor penguins.
2018
An Alarming Study Researchers estimate that by 2100, at least two-thirds of emperor penguin colonies will have dramatically declined.
2022
50 Years of Penguin Day 2022 will mark 50 years of the official celebration of the Penguins.
WORLD PENGUIN DAY ACTIVITIES
Learn about Penguins
This is a perfect opportunity to gather information about these amazing animals. Search online, read books, or watch "Penguins" — A coming-of-age documentary about an Adélie penguin named Steve who joins millions of other males to start his own family despite the perils of Antarctica.
Visit your local zoo
If you can, take a trip to a zoo to see these birds up close. You may even get the opportunity to take part in feeding time by throwing fish to the peckish birds.
Adopt a penguin
Fund a penguin with the option of adopting one remotely. You can give it a name and arrange for visits.