WADDLE, WADDLE: Calgary Zoo’s 13th annual Penguin Walk kicks off Saturday

Penguin Walk
Penguin WalkCourtesy Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
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The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s king penguins are ready to waddle their way into hearts once again with the start of the 13th Annual Penguin Walk on Saturday.

This winter tradition, presented by WestJet, offers visitors a rare and up-close experience with the majestic birds as they parade through the zoo grounds.

The daily walk, scheduled for 10:30 a.m., will run until mid-March, weather permitting.

The 20-minute trek starts at Penguin Plunge, travels to the Discovery Trail Bridge, and loops back to the penguin habitat. It’s a opportunity to witness the natural behaviors of the zoo’s king penguin colony.

“The Penguin Walk offers an exciting way for our king penguins to engage in natural behaviors while providing our visitors with a memorable, up-close experience,” said Kim Walker, Senior Manager of Animal Care & Welfare.

“It’s always a joy to see the penguins so enthusiastic to begin their walk, showing us that they’re just as excited about this enriching activity as our guests are. We hope this experience sparks a deeper connection for visitors, inspiring them to care about the well-being of these incredible birds and the wild places they call home.”

Participation in the walk is voluntary, and the penguins can choose whether or not to join in. Fortunately, the birds love their daily strolls, often with all 14 members of the colony — including Louis, Diana, Cleopatra, and Augustus — taking part.

The event also serves as an enrichment activity for the king penguins, a species known in the wild for walking great distances to find open water.

The Penguin Walk depends on both the birds’ interest and the weather. If temperatures rise above +5°C, fall to -25°C or lower, or winds are too strong, the walk will be canceled.

Notifications about cancellations will be posted on the zoo’s website and social media by 9:00 a.m., or at the latest, 10:00 a.m.

Viewing the Penguin Walk is included with day admission or memberships. For more details, visit calgaryzoo.com.

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