Sphen, a beloved gentoo penguin at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, died at the age of 11, leaving behind his same-sex partner Magic and two foster chicks. They had become a symbol of love and equality having won the hearts of many people globally.
The aquarium staff first noticed that Sphen was attracted to Magic when they saw them bowing to each other. This is how gentoo penguins flirt with one another.They were together for six years before Sphen’s death.
To aid in the grieving process, Magic spent time next to Sphen’s body so that he could understand what happened to his partner. The facility told us that Magic started singing and the rest of the penguins joined him as well.
In 2018, what had been natural behavior of monogamous gentoo penguins getting adopted by Sphen and Magic received international attention as they also raised them into adulthood. Their emotional bond touched all corners making them an icon of tolerance and openness around the world.
Beyond its walls, their tale reached out as far as a float during Sydney’s Mardi Gras parade Australia’s school curriculum inclusion in Netflix series Atypical. His impact on conservation and equality was summed up by Richard Dilly, general manager at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium: “Sphen left immeasurable impact that makes him a legend.”
The public has expressed their grief and condolences on a message board created by the aquarium. Mark said this about it: “Sphen and Magic were equality icons.My heart goes out to keepers & entire team @SeaLifeSydney.” Rach added “You taught the world so much.We will never forget you Habibi.”
Magic is now being prepared for breeding season without Sphengic for company; thus making her still part of his life through their two foster children named Lara (a.k.a.Sphengic) and Clancy.
