At Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, a king penguin chick named Pesto has become a social media sensation due to his remarkable size. Born in late January, Pesto was the only king penguin to hatch at the aquarium in two years.

  • Exceptional Growth: Initially weighing less than a pound, Pesto has grown significantly, currently weighing a remarkable 51.8 pounds. He is significantly larger than his foster parents, Tango and Hudson, who each weigh around 24 pounds. Pesto’s size makes him appear comically large compared to his parents.
  • Gender Reveal and Rising Stardom: Pesto’s fame increased dramatically after the aquarium hosted a gender reveal party for him, as determining a penguin’s sex visually is impossible. Humans need to take blood samples to determine their sex. This event propelled him to social media stardom.
  • From Fluffy Chick to Sleek Adult: Currently covered in brown down, Pesto will soon undergo a transformation as his baby feathers are replaced with adult plumage of black, white, and orange. This transition will likely take one to two months, resulting in a sleeker appearance.
  • Predicted Weight Adjustment: As Pesto matures, he is expected to shed some weight, settling at approximately 33 pounds. While still a “big boy” by king penguin standards, this weight is more typical for his species.
  • King Penguin Size: King penguins generally weigh between 31 and 37 pounds and stand between 33 and 37 inches tall. While they are larger than most penguin species, the emperor penguin reigns supreme, reaching up to 100 pounds and 50 inches tall.

Pesto’s story highlights the fascinating world of penguins, showcasing their unique growth patterns and captivating the hearts of audiences worldwide.

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