The operator of Sea Life London Aquarium has pledged to discontinue keeping gentoo penguins across all its UK locations, marking a significant victory for animal welfare advocates. Merlin Entertainments announced in a statement that it would combine the 14 penguins at the London site with the 17 living at their Birmingham location to create a unified colony featuring an improved habitat with natural daylight and expanded water areas. The multinational company also committed to stop breeding the birds indefinitely following two days of discussions last week.
Campaign Success
This development follows sustained pressure from campaigners who have repeatedly demanded improved living conditions for the penguins, currently kept in an indoor basement facility in London without exposure to fresh air or natural light. Freedom for Animals, the Born Free Foundation, the Daily Express Newspaper, MPs and members of the public all rallied behind the campaign, with some advocating for the penguins to be relocated to outdoor facilities.
The company, which is one of the world's largest aquarium operators, said it will finalise a full proposal for the enhanced enclosure by September, noting the new facility will probably be located at the London Aquarium. Freedom for Animals and Born Free will be consulted regarding its design before a final decision is reached, it confirmed.
Company Commitment
A Merlin Entertainments spokeswoman said the firm "intends to merge its two UK gentoo colonies into a single, enhanced home, with significantly enlarged water space, and natural light; and permanently end gentoo breeding at both London and Birmingham sites". The announcement came after months of collaboration with Freedom for Animals, the Born Free Foundation and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), a wild penguin researcher, a veterinarian, and the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (Biaza), the company stated.
The organisation acknowledged that certain stakeholders remain keen to explore the possibility of relocating the gentoo penguins to an outdoor facility or a purpose-built sanctuary, given that no such place currently exists within the UK. They said: "While there are a small number of potentially suitable outside locations in the UK, any move beyond Merlin sites removes our ability to honour the commitment we have made to stop breeding permanently. Knowing the significant complexities and resources required to sustain a sanctuary offering excellent welfare across the lifespan of the animals, we do not believe this is a realistic option for these penguins."
The statement added: "With both of these factors in mind, the group focused on developing a clear, science-led path to continue to enhance the habitat for the gentoos in Merlin's care, while contributing to further conservation research and visitor education for this species. We care deeply about these penguins and have always been focused on providing them with the best possible life, now and in the future." It continued: "This decision was reached following a robust consultative process, with significant input from experts. We are grateful for the energy, expertise and time everyone has invested."
