
The Shedd Aquarium recently welcomed two new adorable feathered friends and Chicagoans can visit them now!
Meet Pico and Douglas, the latest additions to the Shedd family.

The male rockhopper penguins hatched back in June of 2024 and have spent the past 7 months reaching important milestones, like taking their first swim and steadily growing in size.
Despite their small stature, the baby birds have a lot of personality. According to Shedd, guests can differentiate between the pair by their unique play time rituals.
Pico loves to hop into the aquatic penguin habitat while Shedd staff are cleaning it. Douglas prefers to stay on land, perching on his favorite toy or on the boots of a staff member.

The penguin brothers are best friends with fellow young rockhopper Isla who hatched in 2023. Visitors can expect to spot the three penguins swimming and socializing together in their enclosure.
Pico and Douglas’s arrival at Shedd is a major success for global rockhopper penguin conservation efforts, as populations of the species face endangerment.
“…Pico and Douglas serve as ambassadors for their wild counterparts, sparking curiosity and encouraging guests to help protect penguins worldwide,” said Shedd senior trainer Katy Roxbury.

Chicagoans can stop by to see Pico, Douglas, and the entire rockhopper family in action at Shedd’s Polar Play Zone.
This month, the aquarium is offering several free days for Illinois residents. The museum will also host several free night events throughout 2025. Click here to view the full schedule.