August 21st 2024.
It was a sad day at the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium as they announced the passing of one-half of their beloved penguin couple, Sphen. Sphen, a Gentoo penguin, had captured the hearts of people all over the world when news of his bond with another male penguin, Magic, first spread in 2018.
Their unique relationship had made headlines and inspired many. The pair had even made a nest together out of pebbles, a behavior typically seen in penguin pairs during breeding season. In a heartwarming move, the aquarium staff had given them a foster egg to care for, and the two had successfully raised two foster chicks - Sphengic in 2018 and Clancy in 2020.
Sphen and Magic's bond was so strong that they were considered one of the most loving penguin pairs at the aquarium. Their love story had inspired a float at the Sydney Mardi Gras, been included in the NSW education syllabus, and even featured in the popular Netflix series Atypical. Their story had also been the subject of books and documentaries about same-sex animal couples.
Sadly, Sphen had passed away at the age of 12, which is considered a long life for a Gentoo penguin. The aquarium staff had taken Magic to see his partner's body to help him understand and process the loss. As soon as Magic saw Sphen, he began to sing, and the rest of the penguin colony joined in. It was a touching moment that showed the strong bond between the two penguins.
Richard Dilly, the general manager of SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, expressed his sadness over the loss of Sphen in a statement. He acknowledged the impact that Sphen and Magic's love story had on people all over the world, and how they had become a symbol of love and acceptance. He also mentioned that many fans had traveled long distances just to see the penguin couple in person.
The focus now shifts to Magic, who will soon prepare for his first breeding season without Sphen by his side. The loss of Sphen has left a void in the penguin colony and the hearts of those who had been inspired by their story. But his memory will live on, and his love for Magic will continue to inspire others.
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