Celebrating New Life: Kolisi, the Adorable Addition to Ushaka Sea World’s Penguin Colony
It was an incredible moment yesterday when SAAMBR animal care staff entered the penguin colony and heard the chirping of a brand new baby penguin.
The baby has lovingly been named Kolisi. Born on the 3rd of November, 2023.
Kolisi’s parents, Larnie and Button, have their own unique stories that add to the beauty of this new story. Larnie, affectionately known as the “toy boy,” had his fair share of relationships before becoming a father for the first time yesterday. Larnie was born at uShaka Sea World on the 1st of September in 2010
Button, on the other hand, has a tale of resilience. Rescued after washing up on the coast on the 1st of May, 2015, she arrived at Ushaka Sea World with a badly damaged left wing which needed amputation. At 8 years old, Button has now become a first-time mom, proving that love and care can triumph over challenges. Described as sweet as a button, her maternal instincts shone through as her newborn cuddled up to her.
“I was absolutely delighted when I found a precious little ball of fluff weighing only 71 grams cuddled up underneath mom while dad stood proudly and protectively on guard” said Kelly de Klerk, Lead Animal Care Specialist. She went on to express her overwhelming happiness. Tears welled in her eyes as she named the newborn penguin Kolisi, inspired by Siya Kolisi, the captain of the Springboks rugby team. Siya Kolisi recently led his team to victory in the Rugby World Cup, embodying unity and strength. De Klerk believed it fitting to name the baby penguin after such an inspiring and selfless figure, emphasising the power of togetherness.
As the newest member of the Ushaka Sea World colony, Kolisi is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the joy that new life brings. The story of his parents, Larnie and Button, adds layers of uniqueness to this heartening tale of a penguin family growing stronger together.
To learn more about the African Penguins at uShaka Sea World, visit the ‘Penguin’ page on our website