Humboldt Penguin Habitat

Check out some construction photos of the exhibit.

The Lincoln Children’s Zoo is excited to announce they have been chosen to be one of only 16 zoos in the country to care for one of the rarest of the penguin species–the Humboldt penguin. Humboldt penguins are one of the few penguin species that prefer warmer climates, as they originate from the coasts of Peru and Chile. The Zoo has been approved to acquire 4-6 breeding pairs of penguins. Learn more about Humboldt penguins and read the press release announcement.

The Zoo must now embark on a fundraising endeavor to raise $300,000 to create a new Humboldt Penguin Habitat. This new habitat will be located at the former harbor seal pool. Read more about our special penguin giving opportunities.

When fully funded, the habitat will include:

• Expanded public viewing opportunities
• A new Penguin Palace, an off exhibit facility for the penguins including a large gathering room for group educational opportunities
• Rocky beach allowing the penguins to hop from rock to rock
• Large mural gracing the back of the exhibit featuring an ocean image off the coast of Chile

The Zoo will continue its mission of “learn firsthand” by providing two daily penguin educational demonstrations led by our Zookeepers. During these demonstrations, the Zookeepers will engage and educate visitors about the penguin’s fragile state in their native homeland and the importance of keeping their survival a priority.

The Zoo has raised $50,000 toward this project and is seeking additional financial support. Naming opportunities for individuals, corporations and foundations begin at $75,000. 

The Humboldt Penguin Habitat will be the first new construction of an exhibit that will feature a new species to the Zoo in 10 years. “Because the Zoo has given so much to the community over the past 45 years, we know there are people who will be excited about supporting this new exhibit,” said Chapo. “This exhibit will not only sustain this endangered species, but it will also create a great deal of public enthusiasm, increase our attendance, and help sustain the Zoo for years to come.” Learn more about supporting this exhibit by visiting www.lincolnchildrenszoo.org/support.

Read more about the exhibit’s announcement in this press release.

Your tax deductible can be made online, downloading a donation form, or contacting our development staff at 402.475.6741, ext. 128.