Animals Emperor penguin discovered in Australian beach area

SDA

11.11.2024 - 09:16

The emperor penguin "Gus" stranded in southwest Australia. (symbolic image)
The emperor penguin "Gus" stranded in southwest Australia. (symbolic image)
Keystone

An emperor penguin has been unexpectedly spotted on a beach in southwest Australia, far from its Antarctic home. Experts are astonished by this unusual journey.

An unexpected visitor caused a stir at Ocean Beach near Denmark, around 400 kilometers south of Perth: An emperor penguin that had traveled 3400 kilometers from its Antarctic home was spotted there. This discovery is considered unique in the world, as never before has an emperor penguin been sighted so far north.

Eyewitnesses reported that the penguin, now named "Gus", initially appeared somewhat lost. "He tried to slide on his belly as if he was on snow and ended up with his face in the sand," a local resident told ABC. "He got up and shook off the sand before waddling on."

An unusual guest

The family who discovered the penguin were amazed at its size. "It was huge, much bigger than other seabirds we know," said one family member. "We wondered what kind of animal that was coming out of the water." Emperor penguins are the largest representatives of flightless seabirds and can grow up to 1.40 meters tall.

In search of food

Researchers suspect that "Gus" followed a current from the Antarctic that led him to Australia. These currents are known to be rich in food, which attracts the animals. It is possible that the currents have recently extended further north than usual.

Care and recovery

The Department of Biodiversity and Conservation has said that the penguin, which initially appeared malnourished, is now being cared for by a bird keeper and is recovering well. "Gus" currently weighs around 23 kilograms, while adult males can reach up to 40 kilograms.