Photo: Emma Friedman/WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The average lifespan of an African Penguin living in the wild is 10-15 years.
But in captivity, penguins can live twice that age.
In fact, at the New England Aquarium, some of its more senior penguins are well into their 30s.
To help keep their elders safe, stimulated, and healthy, the NEA staff has designed and built its own penguin 'retirement home.'
While their younger and more energetic penguins spend much of their time playing, swimming, and socializing, the seven senior penguins 30-plus years old spend their time on 'Geriatric Island.'
Senior Penguin Trainer Mia Luzietti said they've developed a special program just for their more senior members of the colony. "We're doing a bunch of training and enrichment sessions with our birds, something we provide for them every day," she said.
While the younger penguins may have a more active schedule, trainers focus on providing their older, calmer birds with the right balance between staying active while being mindful of their unique needs. "Over here, we're really focused more on training them how to utilize their environment so that they have the best success in life."
The island for seniors is designed so that the penguins have an easier time getting around, including gentle slopes and more level spots to chill.
The older birds also get acupuncture and physical therapy, as well as being fed fish that have been injected with extra water to promote kidney health.
WBZ NewsRadio's Emma Friedman (@EmmaFriedmanWBZ) reports.