Photo: Metro Richmond Zoo
Theworld’s oldest African penguinis celebrating her 43rd birthday.
“ET,“the oldest known African penguin to ever have lived, has resided at Virginia’s Metro Richmond Zoo since 1995.
According to the zoo’s website, the flightless bird’s average lifespan is roughly 15-20 years, “but they can live much longer in zoological parks.”
In honor of the beloved ET’s Jan. 28 birthday, the Metro Richmond Zoo shared some celebratory words on its Facebook page.
“The world’s oldest African penguin is one year older! Help us wish ET, one of our female African penguins, a very happy birthday,” the Virginia facility shared.
Metro Richmond Zoo
For her big day, the penguin took pictures under a bright pink “43” sign and enjoyed a special treat. In place of frosting and sugar, ET had a birthday cake made of ice and fish.
Though ET appears solo in her birthday shots, she is taken. “Penguins are monogamous and will mate for life,” the zoo explained on its site. “ET has outlived two of her mates at the MRZ, and her current mate is Einstein. ET and Einstein have their own private space so she can spend her senior years without any penguin drama.”
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As ET’s elaborate birthday shows, the Metro Richmond Zoo is committed to the happiness and longevity of their record-breaking penguin resident.
“ET is in good health considering her age. Like most elderly penguins, she has arthritis for which she receives medication. She also has impaired vision, but her quality of life is strong. She eats well and still loves to swim. ET is a favorite of our staff and guests, and she receives lots of love and care,” the zoo wrote on its website. “Happy 43rd Birthday, ET! We love you!”
source: people.com
