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Sphen, a beloved gentoo penguin at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, has passed away at the age of 11, leaving behind his same-sex partner, Magic, and their two foster chicks. The couple’s relationship captured the hearts of people around the world, becoming a symbol of love and equality.
The attraction between Sphen and Magic was first noticed by staff when the two penguins were observed bowing to each other, a gentoo way of flirting.They spent six years together before Sphen’s passing.
As part of the mourning process, Magic was given time with Sphen’s body to help him understand his partner has passed away. The aquarium reported that Magic began singing, a gesture that was echoed by the rest of the penguin colony.
Sphen and Magic’s story gained international attention in 2018 when they adopted and raised two chicks together, showcasing the natural monogamous behavior of gentoo penguins. Their relationship resonated with audiences worldwide, making them a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance.
The couple’s influence extended far beyond the aquarium walls, inspiring a float in Sydney’s Mardi Gras parade, being included in Australia’s educational curriculum, and even featuring in the Netflix series Atypical. Sphen’s legacy as an ambassador for equality and conservation was celebrated by Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, with general manager Richard Dilly describing the penguin’s impact as “immeasurable.”
The public has expressed their grief and condolences on a message board created by the aquarium. One fan, Mark, wrote, “Sphen and Magic were equality icons. My heart breaks for the keepers and the whole Sea Life Sydney team.” Another, Rach, added, “You taught the world so much. We will never forget you, Habibi.”
As the focus at Sea Life Sydney shifts to Magic, who is preparing for his first breeding season without Sphen by his side, the penguin’s legacy lives on through the couple’s two foster chicks, Sphengic (also known as Lara) and Clancy.
The attraction between Sphen and Magic was first noticed by staff when the two penguins were observed bowing to each other, a gentoo way of flirting.They spent six years together before Sphen’s passing.
As part of the mourning process, Magic was given time with Sphen’s body to help him understand his partner has passed away. The aquarium reported that Magic began singing, a gesture that was echoed by the rest of the penguin colony.
Sphen and Magic’s story gained international attention in 2018 when they adopted and raised two chicks together, showcasing the natural monogamous behavior of gentoo penguins. Their relationship resonated with audiences worldwide, making them a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance.
The couple’s influence extended far beyond the aquarium walls, inspiring a float in Sydney’s Mardi Gras parade, being included in Australia’s educational curriculum, and even featuring in the Netflix series Atypical. Sphen’s legacy as an ambassador for equality and conservation was celebrated by Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, with general manager Richard Dilly describing the penguin’s impact as “immeasurable.”
The public has expressed their grief and condolences on a message board created by the aquarium. One fan, Mark, wrote, “Sphen and Magic were equality icons. My heart breaks for the keepers and the whole Sea Life Sydney team.” Another, Rach, added, “You taught the world so much. We will never forget you, Habibi.”
As the focus at Sea Life Sydney shifts to Magic, who is preparing for his first breeding season without Sphen by his side, the penguin’s legacy lives on through the couple’s two foster chicks, Sphengic (also known as Lara) and Clancy.
