Double Hatch Success for Critically Endangered Penguins at Banham Zoo

Banham Zoo is delighted to announce the hatching of not one, but two Black-footed penguin chicks, affectionately named Twix and Twirl, bringing a double dose of joy (and a dash of chocolatey charm) to the zoo this spring.

The twins, who hatched on the 28th and 29th of March 2026, are a significant and heartening addition to the conservation efforts surrounding this critically endangered species.

Native to the south-western coasts of Africa, Black-footed penguins face severe threats in the wild, with fewer than 20,000 left in the wild. This makes each successful hatch an important step towards safeguarding their future.

Still nestled safely within their burrow, Twix and Twirl are very much in their infancy. The pair opened their eyes for the first time only at the start of April and remains entirely dependent on their devoted parents, who are providing constant care and nourishment.

Over the coming months, the chicks will grow rapidly before eventually venturing out of their cosy cave and into the wider world of their habitat, an exciting milestone eagerly anticipated by keepers and visitors alike.

The proud parents include Mother Kanene, a well-established and much-loved resident of Banham Zoo, and Smithson, a recent arrival from Birdworld in Surrey. The newly formed pair have taken to parenthood with admirable dedication, offering a promising glimpse into a future for this partnership.

Keepers report that both chicks are progressing well, displaying healthy development and strong bonding behaviours.

Sophie Imhof, Team Leader of Birds at Banham Zoo, said, ‘It’s brilliant to see both chicks doing well, two at once certainly keeps them busy. Every hatch really matters for this species, as they are a critically endangered species with species numbers dropping 90% in the last century. Organisations like SANCCOB are doing crucial work to protect them in the wild, and it’s great to be able to support them all the way from Norfolk.

For now, Twix and Twirl are staying tucked up in the nest, exactly where they should be. But we look forward to seeing them adventure out in the coming months.’