penguins

MEET PLYLER

Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is proud to welcome its second penguin born at Penguin Playhouse. Births like Plyler’s help us foster environmental education, conservation, and research, while simultaneously providing entertainment and wonder for visitors of all ages.

Plyler the African penguin hatched on August 21, 2021. After welcoming Egerton to the colony in 2020, Plyler pushes Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach toward our goal of “three chicks in three years” as a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan to help save endangered animals.

Mated pair Jimmy and Maggie appear to be leading the charge on the Aquarium’s “three chicks in three years” initiative, as they reared both Egerton and Plyler. But the burden isn’t just resting on Maggie’s wings, there’s at least six other mated pairs in the Penguin Playhouse colony that could help populate the endangered African penguin species!

SAVING SEABIRDS WITH SANCCOB

As a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Ripley’s Aquariums are a proud supporter of the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB). SANCCOB is a nonprofit organization with a mission to reverse the decline of seabird populations through rescue and rehabilitation. The organization has treated over 85,000 birds since its inception in 1968, including endangered African penguins.

Penguin Image

PENGUIN PAINTINGS

Did you know Ripley’s Aquariums penguin paintings, available in the Cargo Hold Gift Shop, help SANCCOB save wild African penguins? When you purchase an original penguin painting—created by the Aquarium’s very own feathered friends—50% of all proceeds go straight to SANCCOB and their conservation efforts.

Education Image

ENGAGING EDUCATION

Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers ongoing educational opportunities for children and adults alike to learn about these remarkable birds, including virtual tours, events, and encounters with African penguins.