Loro Parque said goodbye to no one Most special animals In its history, the oldest Gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua) ever recorded in Europe under human care, which died this week at the age of 39 years and 11 months. It’s about age … It is unusual that the life expectancy of this species doubles, and is estimated in nature to be between 15 to 20 years.
The specimen has been officially registered in ZIMS (Zoological Information Management System), the global database managed by Species360, which is used by thousands of zoological institutions and aquariums around the world. This system allows for accurate documentation of each individual’s clinical, genetic and behavioral history, enhancing standards of transparency, traceability and animal welfare.
For nearly four decades, this penguin has been an essential part of Penguin Planet, one of the planets The most advanced penguins in the worldand has become “a living witness to the park’s commitment to professional care, conservation and environmental education,” the entity notes.
Rafael Zamora, scientific director of the Loro Parque Fundación, emphasized that “in modern zoos and aquariums like Loro Parque, penguins are protected from many threats. Threats that they encounter in nature. Problems such as global warming have significantly degraded their habitats, putting the future of these species at risk.
“The global situation is scary11 of the 18 penguin species on the planet are threatened with extinction, according to the IUCN Red List. Antarctica has suffered an unprecedented decline in sea ice, endangering breeding platforms and the availability of krill, the primary food of these birds.
In this scenario, the exceptionally long life of this specimen acquires a very important value, confirming the role that institutions such as Loro Parque play in Protecting species at risk and in generating internationally shared scientific knowledge through platforms such as ZIMS.
Planet Penguin houses four species of emperor, gentoo, chinstrap, and Humboldt penguins in facilities that faithfully reproduce their natural habitat, with seasonal lighting systems, continuously generated ice, and controlled environmental standards.
Planet Penguin’s Almudena Gonzalez explained, “Here we present to you Perfect environment So that they develop their natural behaviors, and protect them from the dangers they are exposed to in nature.
The penguin’s complete history, such as its growth, health, behaviors and longevity, has been documented at ZIMS, which will allow its legacy to contribute to future studies and the continued improvement of animal welfare at conservation centers around the world.
For many visitors, this specimen was a symbol of Loro Parque, an animal that has accompanied different generations and awakened in thousands of people a lasting interest in nature and the protection of Arctic ecosystems.
“His farewell honors not only an exceptional animal, but also the park’s ongoing commitment to conservation, science and animal welfare, pillars that will continue to guide its work on behalf of global biodiversity,” highlights Loro Parque.