Magellanic Penguins Return to the LA Zoo for the First Time Since 1984
Six penguins from the Aquarium of the Pacific and SeaWorld San Diego live at the Zoo's Rainforest of the Americas.
The Los Angeles Zoo welcomed a colony of six Magellanic penguins, the first of the species to reside at the Zoo since 1984. Two came from the Aquarium of the Pacific and four from SeaWorld San Diego, and the birds can be seen in their pool at the Rainforest of the Americas exhibit. Native to coastal Argentina, Chile and the Falkland Islands, Magellanic penguins have two black bands across a white chest and eat small fish such as anchovies and sardines.
Misha Body, the Zoo's Deputy Director of Animals and Experiences, said the Zoo is thrilled to welcome them, and Director of Animal Care Dominick Dorsa II called their return a monumental milestone. Viewing is included with Zoo admission, and parking is free.
Need to know
- Where
- Los Angeles Zoo, Rainforest of the Americas, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- Hours
- On view daily as of October 20, 2026. Zoo open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., last entry 3:45 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Day and December 25.
- Price
- Adults $27, children ages 2 to 12 $22. Penguin viewing included with Zoo admission. Free parking.
Source: Los Angeles Zoo