Penguin chicks ‘growing fast’ after arrival in safari park colony
Bubba and Rossco were born at Blair Drummond in June, two months after Nugget’s arrival.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Two Humboldt penguin chicks have been born at Blair Drummond Safari Park near Stirling to the delight of staff.
Bubba was born to parents Forest and Rocky on June 8, followed by Rossco to parents Sheldon and Freckles on June 23.
The pair join earlier chick Nugget, who was born in April and is almost fully grown.
Humboldt penguins grow to 26-28 inches and live for around 20 years. In the wild they can be found along the coasts of Chile and Peru in the south-eastern Pacific Ocean.
The park’s dedicated keepers have been closely monitoring the trio since they hatched, weighing them regularly to ensure they are healthy, eating well and growing at the expected rate.
Bubba currently weighs around 2kg and Rossco weighs 1kg, while Nugget weighs more than both of them at 3.3kg.
Jen Carpenter, penguin team leader at Blair Drummond, said: “It’s always a joy to welcome new chicks into our penguin family.
“Bubba and Rossco are growing fast and it’s incredible to see their progress.
“We look forward to watching them develop and eventually join the rest of the colony.
“Our team is dedicated to ensuring they receive the best care possible.”
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.