First emperor penguin found in Australia after 2,000-mile journey

World

A malnourished emperor penguin has been found in Australia for the first time – more than 2,200 miles north of the Antarctic coast.

The adult male was discovered on 1 November on a tourist beach in the town of Denmark in southwest Australia.

The emperor is the largest penguin species and has never been reported in the country before, according to Belinda Cannell from the University of Western Australia.

She said she had no clue why he had taken such a long journey, although some emperors have been spotted in New Zealand before.

In this undated photo provided by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, a male emperor penguin dubbed Gus, stands on a scale after being discovered on a beach near Denmark, Australia, on Nov. 1, 2024, thousands of kilometers from its normal habitat on Antarctica. (Miles Brotherson/DBCA via AP)
Image:
The penguin was well underweight when it was found. Pic: AP

The one-metre tall bird weighed 23kg when he was found, but healthy males can weigh more than 45kg.

He is being cared for by seabird rehabilitator Carol Biddulph, who’s spraying him with chilled water mist to help him adapt to the warmer climate.

Read more from Sky News:
Worst areas for uninsured drivers revealed
Tennis analyst taken off air over comment about player

The sighting was reported by Western Australia’s department of biodiversity and conservation.

When asked if the penguin could be returned home, it said “options are still being worked through”.

Articles You May Like

What makes a Honda a Honda? Prologue engineers help us find out!
Super Micro hires new auditor to maintain Nasdaq listing; shares pop 37%
Nvidia shares take fresh hit as growth expectations disappoint
UK to scrap warships, helicopters and drone fleet despite growing threats abroad
New Biosensor in Seatbelts Tracks Driver Stress and Health Levels