Photography: Phillip Castleton.
The holiday season is finally upon us and no one is more excited than Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium’s viral sensation, Pesto the king penguin. He was so ecstatic that he decided to catch up on some much-needed sleep when Woman’s Day paid him a visit to hear what his passionate keepers have planned for the 11-month-old chick! Aquarium keeper Michaela Smale reveals they have lots of exciting things arranged for all the king and gentoo penguins on Christmas Day.
“The penguins have their own special Christmas wish list, which is usually their absolute favourite food – whitebait and jelly,” she shares. “We’ll make them a big Christmas tree out of snow too!”
Pesto the penguin went viral shortly after hatching in January due to his unusually large size compared to his foster parents, Tango and Hudson, along with his distinctive, very fluffy brown baby feathers.
Millions of people from around the world have watched, loved and commented on Pesto’s adorable appearance on social media. He’s the aquarium’s biggest chick ever, now weighing 24kg, compared to the average king penguin weight of 17kg.
Michaela, who is in charge of making sure Pesto is happy, well-fed and cool, is constantly surprised at how famous the penguin has become.
“The fact he’s so big is why the whole internet started to get behind him. And I think he acts as a really good ambassador for his species,” she says. “It’s super-cool he’s inspired people to care about all of his wild counterparts.”
While Pesto is growing up and losing his baby down feathers, Michaela says he’s still as cheeky as ever!
“He’s outgoing and confident – right from the get-go, he’s loved being the first one to explore new places and new enrichment activities,” she explains, while blowing bubbles at the excited penguins – one of their favourite activities. “He’s just super-fun to be around.”
While Pesto was resting when we paid a visit, he’s been more accommodating for his many A-list fans. Including Katy Perry, who wanted to kiss Pesto while visiting Australia to perform at the AFL grand final in September. Singer Olivia Rodrigo also came by to say hello.
“It’s super-cool to have VIPs come and visit as there are not many jobs in the world where you have the opportunity to meet celebs,” says Michaela. “They’ve all been very respectful and also so appreciative.” The aquarium’s education manager Olivia Hill reveals their visitor count has never been higher.
“Pesto’s bookings are full until February, which is terrifying but also extraordinary for us. The numbers are really exceeding our expectations in a great way.” Most guests who visit Pesto want to learn more about penguins.
“It’s been a great opportunity for us to advocate for Pesto’s friends in the wild. And, remind people that they can have a positive impact on penguins even though they live far away.”
Another thing that amazes both Olivia and Michaela is how far people are travelling to get a glimpse of Pesto.
“We met a lady who came all the way from the US for one day. Just to see Pesto!” laughs Olivia. “It’s just fascinating to think that someone would fly halfway across the world to see a penguin.”
Once the festive season is over, the aquarium will swap tinsel for balloons to celebrate Pesto’s first birthday. Although they haven’t set plans in stone for the 31 January celebrations, Michaela promises that guests will see special presentations, play party games, and dance.
“It’s been super-fun to watch him grow from this little 200g baby into the 24kg chunk he is. It’s been fun to share him with the rest of the world,” she enthuses. “We all knew he was special when he hatched, but now everyone knows just how special Pesto is.”
Pesto’s stats
- Hatched wight: 196 grams
- Current weight: 24kg
- Current height: 90cm
- Fish consumed per day: 25
- Temperature in habitat: -2°C
- Increase in visitors since Pesto arrived: 40%
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