Merlin Entertainments, owner of Sea Life London Aquarium, has announced it will phase out gentoo penguins from all its UK facilities, in a significant victory for wildlife campaigners.
The multinational firm confirmed its commitment to ending the breeding of the birds permanently following two days of discussions last week.
The plan involves merging the 14 penguins currently housed in London with the 17 at their Birmingham facility. This combined colony will be relocated to a new habitat designed to offer natural light and substantially more water space, addressing long-standing concerns about their welfare.
The decision comes after pressure from animal welfare advocates who have consistently called for improved conditions for the penguins. Campaigners highlighted that the birds in London were kept in an indoor basement enclosure, lacking access to fresh air or natural daylight.
A broad coalition, including Freedom for Animals, the Born Free Foundation, the Daily Express newspaper, Members of Parliament, and members of the public, joined the campaign. Many urged the company to move the penguins to outdoor environments.
Merlin Entertainments, one of the world's largest aquarium operators, said it would confirm a full proposal for the enhanced enclosure by September, indicating it would likely be situated at the London Aquarium. Both Freedom for Animals and Born Free will be consulted on the design before a final decision is reached.
A Merlin Entertainments spokeswoman said the firm “intends to merge its two UK gentoo colonies into a single, enhanced home, with significantly enlarged water space, and natural light; and permanently end gentoo breeding at both London and Birmingham sites”.
It followed months of collaboration with Freedom for Animals, the Born Free Foundation and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), a wild penguin researcher, a veterinarian, and the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (Biaza), it said.
The firm recognised some stakeholders wish to keep open the prospect of moving the gentoo penguins to an outdoor facility, or a newly created sanctuary because none currently exist in the UK.
“While there are a small number of potentially suitable outside locations in the UK, any move beyond Merlin sites removes our ability to honour the commitment we have made to stop breeding permanently,” they said.
“Knowing the significant complexities and resources required to sustain a sanctuary offering excellent welfare across the lifespan of the animals, we do not believe this is a realistic option for these penguins.
“With both of these factors in mind, the group focused on developing a clear, science-led path to continue to enhance the habitat for the gentoos in Merlin’s care, while contributing to further conservation research and visitor education for this species.
“We care deeply about these penguins and have always been focused on providing them with the best possible life, now and in the future.
“This decision was reached following a robust consultative process, with significant input from experts.
“We are grateful for the energy, expertise and time everyone has invested.”
