Australia’s first emperor penguin, nicknamed Gus, has been released back into the ocean after spending 20 days in the care of a wildlife expert. The bird was found malnourished on a beach in Western Australia and gained seven pounds under the care of seabird rehabilitator Carol Biddulph and her veterinarian husband. The team ensured Gus had a fighting chance of survival by providing fluids, slurry, whole fish, and a mirror for companionship. The penguin was released off the southern coast of Western Australia, where it could thermoregulate itself in warmer waters. Although its gender has not been confirmed, Gus stands at 3 feet 3 inches tall, half the weight of a healthy male emperor penguin. The exact reason for Gus’ journey from Antarctica to Australia remains unknown. Emperors are the largest of all penguins and are known to travel long distances on foraging trips that can last up to a month. Biddulph expressed excitement to be part of Gus’ journey and wished him luck as he swam away from the vessel. The Australian government’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions highlighted the importance of returning the penguin to the ocean to increase its chances of survival.
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Emperor penguin discovered in Australia returned to its natural habitat
