A new African penguin chick has hatched at Lincoln Park Zoo, the institution announced on November 6, 2025. The chick was born on October 1 after a 40-day incubation period and is being closely monitored by the zoo’s animal care and veterinary staff. The sex of the chick has not yet been determined.
The egg was laid by Rosie and Cecil, two African penguins participating in the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is a collaborative effort among Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) institutions to manage endangered species populations. Due to previous unsuccessful breeding attempts by Rosie and Cecil, the zoo’s animal care team decided that another pair, Liam and Maria, would foster the chick.
“As a critically endangered species, each new African penguin chick represents an immense amount of hope for the species’ future. It’s a true testament to the collective work being done by zoos, field researchers, and conservationists worldwide to turn the tide for African penguins,” said Hope B. McCormick Curator of Birds Nicole Finch-Mason. “It’s been great to see Liam and Maria rise to the occasion as fosters, giving them a chance to experience parenthood regardless of their genetics.”
Currently weighing 4.23 pounds according to its latest veterinary exam, the chick will remain behind the scenes until it reaches key developmental milestones such as fledging and learning how to swim before joining other penguins at Robert and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove. Typically, chicks stay in their nest for about twelve weeks before molting into waterproof juvenile plumage.
Lincoln Park Zoo collaborates with AZA's Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) program because African penguins are considered a priority species due to their rapidly declining wild population—from approximately 141,000 breeding pairs in 1956 to fewer than 20,000 today.
African penguins inhabit coastal areas from South Africa to Namibia. They have developed adaptations like exposed pink skin near their eyes for heat regulation and muscles that help release trapped heat—traits that also make them suitable for Chicago's climate.
The zoo invites members of the public to suggest names for the new chick through its social media channels; a naming contest will be held soon.
Lincoln Park Zoo is recognized as both a local landmark since its founding in 1868 and an active participant in global wildlife conservation efforts as a free-admission facility open year-round.