2026
May 8
The first chick hatches! Meet Vic.
Double the waddle.
Double the fluff.
Double the love!
We have some exciting news to share… our penguin family just got a little bigger! Not one, but TWO healthy penguin chicks have hatched, and their mom and dad are experiencing parenthood for the very first time. Follow along as we share their incredible journey.
2026
May 11
Chelle hatched!
2026
May 15
Vic opens his eyes for the first time.
2026
June 1
Vic and Chelle are reunited! Brother and sister begin living together.
2026
June 2
Chelle eats her first WHOLE fish!
2026
June 30
The chicks begin to lose their fluffy baby feathers, or down, to make way for their waterproof adult feathers.
To celebrate the great news, we’re offering a Double the Trouble discount! Save 20% on ALL Combo Ticket packages for the month of July!
Use Promo Code: DOUBLE
Use Promo Code: DOUBLE
Keep waddlin’
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Meet the Family
Every great family has a story. Meet our newest penguin family!
Scarlette
Scarlette’s hue-inspired name comes from the path of skin above the African penguins’ eyes that turns pink as the birds regulate their body temperature. Lette is very friendly, and you can often find her going on walks, and chasing shoestrings or laser pointers.
Carson
Coming to us from Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey, Carson is technically a Jersey boy, but his singing won’t be winning him any awards any time soon. Despite this, Carson has loyal fans, as he loves to play and interact with guests by following their hands and chasing shadows.
Vic
Named after Myrtle Beach icon Victor “Vic” Shamah, this chick has big flippers to fill. He is a cuddlebug who is NOT afraid to speak his mind. He enjoys chasing bubbles and watching nature documentaries.
Chelle
Named after longtime Ripley’s Aquarium team member Michelle, Chelle has plenty of inspiration for making a splash. She is an independent adventurer. She also loves jewelry and she will definitely try to steal it. Chelle is protective of her brother, but, like many siblings, she can get jealous when he is getting “too much” attention.
Follow the waddle
Want updates on these fluffy twins? We don’t blame you. Sign up and we’ll send you emails and texts with photos and updates on the twins’ progress.
Conservation Corner
African Penguins are Critically Endangered
In Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited facilities, the African penguin is thriving. With exceptional husbandry and medical care, the African penguin is a cornerstone for conservation messaging and educational outreach. This is a highly recognizable and charismatic species which makes them a prime candidate to engage our guests.
Penguin Facts
Waddle you know!
Because the down feathers are not waterproof, chicks must stay out of the water completely until the adult feathers have fully replaced the baby fluff.
