Three Baby Penguins Just Hatched at Roger Williams Park Zoo

Just a year after welcoming penguins back at Roger Williams Park Zoo, the colony is already growing.

This week, zoo officials announced the arrival of three Humboldt penguin chicks who successfully hatched in April. The births are exciting news, not only for zoo guests eager to see them, but for the species itself, which is considered vulnerable worldwide.

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But don't expect to see these adorable fuzzy faces in the zoo's penguin habitat just yet, staff say they have a few more mini milestones to reach before that day can come.

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Round-the-Clock Care Behind the Scenes

While everyone at the zoo was thrilled when the new babies arrived, the animal care and veterinary teams quickly realized the new chicks were going to need some extra support.

Courtesy of the Roger Williams Park Zoo

Staff provided around-the-clock care, even hand-feeding the tiny penguins to ensure they were getting the nutrition needed to thrive.

Next Stage: Swimming Lessons Ahead

As they grow, the chicks are entering a new stage of development. Soon they shed their fluffy baby down and develop smooth tuxedo-like feathers, setting the stage for zoo staff to begin the enviable task of helping them learn to swim.

Courtesy of the Roger Williams Park Zoo

When Will Visitors See the Baby Penguins?

Guests will definitely be hoping they're fast learners, because once they are expert swimmers, they'll be ready for their official public debut.

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No date has been announced yet, but staff say to keep watching their socials for updates on the new penguins as they learn new skills, bond with friends and family in the Humboldt penguins colony, and prepare for their new life at Roger Williams Park Zoo.