Penguins Get a New Home: London Habitat Shut Down

The Sea Life London Aquarium's indoor gentoo penguin enclosure, criticized for its lack of daylight and fresh air, is slated for closure within the next two years. Work is set to begin in 2027 on an "enhanced" enclosure at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham. The gentoo penguins are expected to transfer to their new, larger home in 2028. This decision comes after a sustained campaign by animal welfare groups, MPs, and the public advocating for better living conditions for the birds.

The new Birmingham habitat, developed with expert input, will feature natural light and seasonal variations. It will offer land and water areas double the size of the current London setup, including a significantly longer and deeper pool. The operator, Merlin Entertainments, has also pledged to end the breeding of gentoo penguins at its UK facilities. This commitment means the current generation will be the last to be bred in captivity by the company.

Animal welfare organizations have welcomed the move, describing it as a victory for "common sense and compassion." While a sanctuary option was not feasible, the improvements in Birmingham are seen as a positive step. The London venue's space will be repurposed for conservation priorities, and the facility aims to become a research centre for wild gentoo conservation. Formal plans for the Birmingham enclosure will be submitted shortly.