The Hengqin Chimelong Penguin Carnival opened at Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin on August 28, with two newly hatched emperor penguin chicks making their first public appearance.
The fluffy chicks can be seen exploring the snowy exhibit area. This year, Chimelong also offers close-up views of emperor penguin fathers caring for their chicks. Visitors can see chicks tucked into their fathers' brood pouches and learn about the species' distinctive parenting behavior.
Since successfully breeding its first emperor penguin in 2016, Chimelong has achieved multiple generations of captive breeding, including the birth of second-generation offspring. During this year's carnival, gentoo, Adélie and chinstrap penguins have also entered their breeding season, with some pairs already laying eggs and taking turns incubating them.
The carnival also features interactive activities, including a challenge where visitors try to walk while balancing a model "penguin egg" on their feet, and a game that allows participants to identify different penguin chicks.
More emperor penguin chicks are expected to hatch at Chimelong in the coming months, giving visitors a chance to observe the growing penguin family.
Author | Huang Xinying
Photos | Nanfang Plus
