Three New Penguins Arrive at Birdland in Bourton-on-the-Water
Three rare Humboldt penguins have arrived at a popular Cotswolds wildlife attraction, bringing fresh excitement for visitors as breeding season begins
A leading wildlife park in the Cotswolds has welcomed three new arrivals as part of an international conservation breeding programme. The young penguins strengthen the colony while giving visitors the chance to watch their behaviour up close in a naturalistic habitat.
The timing is especially encouraging, with spring marking the start of breeding season. Established pairs are already returning to nesting sites, creating a lively atmosphere and offering visitors an engaging glimpse into colony life.
Birdland Park & Gardens has confirmed the arrival of three male Humboldt Penguins, which travelled from Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo after hatching in 2024. Two of the newcomers are brothers and all have settled well alongside Birdland’s existing Humboldt and King Penguin groups.
The birds handled the journey smoothly, feeding shortly after arrival and completing all quarantine requirements before joining the colony at Penguin Shore.
Head Keeper Alistair Keen said: “We are delighted to welcome the three new males to Birdland. They have settled in brilliantly and it is fantastic for visitors to see the colony growing as we head into breeding season.”
Humboldt Penguins are native to Peru and Chile and are listed as vulnerable in the wild due to climate change, overfishing and habitat pressures. Managed breeding programmes help protect the species and maintain healthy populations in conservation zoos.
Birdland also supports conservation work overseas. Last year, Head Keeper Alistair Keen volunteered in Peru, helping scientists monitor wildlife and build artificial nesting shelters for wild penguin colonies.
The new arrivals are now exploring Penguin Shore and can be seen alongside the rest of Birdland’s lively penguin community.
Explore Gloucestershire
9 March 2026
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