50-pound king penguin chick Pesto unexpectedly becomes a global sensation

A new viral sensation is taking the spotlight: Pesto, a nine-month-old king penguin chick, whose unusually large size has made him a global star. Hatched from an avocado-sized egg on January 30, 2024, at Sea Life Melbourne, Australia, Pesto now weighs a hefty 22.5 kg (49.6 lb)—significantly more than the average 9.3 kg to 18 kg (20.5 to 39.7 lb) typical for his species.

Named after a former colony favorite, Basil, Pesto is approaching adult size and will soon undergo his first molt, shedding his brown down for adult plumage. Despite slimming down slightly as he matures, Pesto is expected to remain a “huge unit.”

The Only Chick of the Season Thrives Under Care and Biosecurity at Sea Life Melbourne

In the wild, king penguin chicks form groups as they gain independence. However, Pesto was Sea Life Melbourne’s only chick this season, giving him all the attention. Fortunately, he’s safe from bird flu thanks to the aquarium’s strict biosecurity measures. Captive penguins like Pesto often enjoy longer lifespans compared to their wild counterparts, who live about 20 years.

Pesto’s fame has spread globally through TikTok, Instagram, and news outlets, amusing fans with his distinctive waddle. Weighing twice as much as his foster parents, Tango and Hudson, and more than his biological dad Blake, Pesto now eats about 25 fish daily. After his catastrophic molt, his weight is expected to settle near that of the larger penguins in his colony.

Sea Life Melbourne’s General Manager, Claire Burrell, shared that Pesto has brought “immense joy” to visitors and staff alike. Fans flock to see him, inspiring fan art and memes, while Pesto’s next steps include learning to swim and fully embracing his role as a much-loved “big baby.”

Read Original Article: New Atlas

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