Despite its small size, this unhappy little penguin managed to halt the departure of a plane at one of New Zealand's primary airports.
Despite its diminutive stature, this penguin wielded significant influence, bringing air traffic to a standstill at one of New Zealand's major airports.
On January 12, just as a pilot prepared for takeoff at Wellington International Airport, the presence of a blue penguin, known as kororā in Māori, was noted. Wellington Airport personnel swiftly intervened to assist the unexpected visitor, prompting the pilot and passengers to patiently await the resolution.
The airport noted that the runway temperature reached 50 degrees Celsius at the time, explaining the penguin's likely discomfort.
After being rescued, the penguin was transported to The Nest Te Kōhanga at Wellington Zoo, a facility specializing in caring for native wildlife.
Subsequently, the airport reported implementing measures to prevent similar incidents, ensuring the safety of animals. An update from the zoo revealed that the penguin was merely six weeks old when discovered on the runway.
Although it exhibited signs of hunger and slight underweight, the zoo confirmed its overall health and noted its promising progress towards recovery.
A charming video captured the adorable sight of the young penguin nestled in a towel, being gently fed fish.
Once its feathers are fully waterproofed, the penguin will be set free back into its natural habitat. Wellington Zoo explained that kororā typically inhabit natural nests in nearby Lyall Bay, suggesting that this fledgling likely strayed off course on its journey home. During its time at Te Kōhanga, the young penguin enjoyed a weight gain diet rich in delicious fish. Additionally, veterinarians conducted X-rays and blood work to ensure the penguin's well-being.
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