Wat-Not Staff
An emperor penguin was discovered over 2,000 miles from home. The malnourished bird was found on a beach in Denmark, Australia, on November 1.
The Western Australia state’s Department of Biodiversity confirmed the discovery. Authorities immediately removed the penguin for its safety.
Discovery of the Emperor Penguin
The penguin likely travelled from Antarctica but appeared very weak. It was malnourished with its spine visible. The penguin was moved from the beach to avoid threats. The authorities did not say why the penguin ventured so far north.
This emperor penguin, the largest of its species, is unique. It is the first of its kind found in Australia.
Experts were shocked by the discovery, considering its distance from home. The penguin stands at about 3 feet 3 inches tall.
Caring for the Malnourished Penguin
Wildlife rehabilitator Carol Biddulph is helping the penguin recover. She noticed the penguin was underweight, weighing just 50 pounds.
This is half the weight of a healthy emperor penguin. The penguin’s condition raised concerns, but Biddulph was determined to help.
Biddulph described it as a privilege to care for the penguin. “Never in my wildest thoughts did I think I’d care for one,” she said. The rehabilitation team is focused on restoring the bird’s health. They are also considering its release once recovered.
Plans for the Penguin’s Future
The penguin’s future is still uncertain as rehabilitation continues. Experts are exploring options for the penguin’s release. Authorities have not decided when or where the penguin will be returned. However, the team hopes for a full recovery.
The government department is focused on strengthening the penguin. The rehabilitation is necessary to ensure it can survive in the wild.
This rare discovery has sparked interest in conservation efforts for wildlife.
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