An aniversary was celebrated at the Birch Aquarium as the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins marked their first full year on July 13, with a mix of fish cakes, beach balls, and plenty of fun in their exhibit. According to Fox5 San Diego, these Little Blue Penguins have captured the hearts of visitors since their arrival to the La Jolla oceanic institution a year ago, becoming a favorite attraction at the educational center.
These slate-blue feathered astonishments are known to be the world’s smallest penguins, measuring little less than just 12 inches in height and weighing merely two to three pounds, as per Patch. Though small in size, they have big personalities that have charmed audiences across the country. A selection of fan-favorite penguins, including Azulito, Cornelius, Nero, Persimmon (aka Percy), and Reka, have become stars in their exhibit at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, where the public outreach aquarium is located.
Their exhibit, opened on July 12, 2022, holds the distinction of being the biggest addition to Birch Aquarium in 30 years. Depicting the life journey of the Little Blue Penguins from hatchlings to adults, the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins exhibit is now the only one of its kind in the western United States, drawing countless visitors with their playful antics, unique blue color, and undeniable cuteness.
In honor of this anniversary celebration, Birch Aquarium rolled out the penguin-themed festivity in style. Providing 'fish cakes' for the aquatic birds, they also introduced beach balls into the exhibit to allow the birds to have a pool party. The Little Blue Penguins' antics, including waddling, ball-chasing, and bubble-popping, provided wholesome, charming entertainment for the guests during this poolside gathering.
In addition to the celebration at the aquarium, a Little Blue Penguin Day was observed on social media pages, where five fantastic photos from a recent penguin photo contest were shared to mark the occasion as reported by NBC Los Angeles. These striking photographs, all captured by aquarium guests, showcase the majestic essence of these little creatures entertaining and delighting all those who had a chance to visit their exhibit. The photos can be seen on Birch Aquarium's social pages from July 12 through July 31, 2023.
For guests looking to say hello to these azure-hued stars in person, the Birch Aquarium offers daily penguin feeding presentations at 10 a.m. With adult tickets priced at $24.95, child passes at $19.95, and senior and college student discounts available at $22.95 each, this educational and entertaining visit is an unforgettable experience. Annual memberships are also available for those who can't get enough of these adorable birds.
Beyond just the Little Blue Penguins, the Birch Aquarium houses various marine life, including sea dragons and octopuses, attracting ocean enthusiasts and families alike to explore and learn. To plan your visit and witness the awe-inspiring aquatic nuggets of joy that are the Little Blue Penguins, NBC Los Angeles suggests visiting the aquarium's website for more information about these incredible creatures and their exhibit.
