Penguin encounters return at Lincoln Park Zoo
CHICAGO — Dreams of waddling with the penguins could soon become a reality at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo.
For the first time since 2019, the zoo is re-introducing its Malott Family Penguin Encounter, which offers guests the chance to step into the penguin habitat.
The program had previously been put on hold for the safety of the penguins during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the hourslong experience, experts from the zoo’s Learning and Animal Care departments take guests on a three-part educational journey around both sides of the habitat, offering them a look at how the African penguin colony is cared for.
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Zoo officials say each penguin gets the chance to choose if they want to participate in the program, and the animal’s behavior is monitored during the encounters by animal care staff.
“The African penguin colony here at Lincoln Park Zoo is full of personalities, and it’s always a joy to learn more about them during each encounter,” Heather Brousalis, Manager of Guest Engagement said. “I’m excited to introduce a new audience to this special species and encourage more people to learn about the ways they can take action with us to support wildlife like penguins.”
Encounters at the zoo are set to begin on Friday, May 17, and will take place Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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will run through Sunday, October 27. A 10 a.m. program will also be available on Wednesdays and Thursdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Up to eight guests can take part and children must be at least 6 years old to participate.
Tickets cost $80 per person and $70 per person for zoo members.
Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo website for more information on the Malott Family Penguin Encounters.
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