1553 days ago

Penguin couple defy odds to reach 24-year anniversary

Ripu Bhatia Reporter from Central Leader

A penguin couple at Kelly Tarlton’s aquarium are only year off their silver anniversary, a rare feat as penguins don’t always mate for life

Buster and 99 have nested together for 24 years, and reared 19 babies in that time.

Their eldest Goofy will turn 24 this year.

Penguin keeper said Kristen Buckley said after 24 years together the pair have their nesting routine down pat.

“We are so happy to see Buster & 99 coupling up for yet another nesting season this year – as they are our longest-standing couple in the Gentoo Penguin colony,” she said.

“Year after year we see them sharing the nest building and egg incubating responsibilities like the seasoned parents they are!”

Buckley said it is crucial that penguins make sure they are with good partner.

“Unlike other birds where one parent can raise a whole clutch of eggs by themselves, both penguin parents need to work together to successfully raise their chicks,” she said.

“They can't afford to have a partner that isn't very good at catching food or finding nesting material because this means that their chicks are very unlikely to make it to adulthood.”

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2 hours ago

Today’s Mind-Bender is the Last of the Year! Can You Guess It Before Everyone Else? 🌟🎁🌲

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

I dance in the sky with green and gold, a spectacle few are lucky to behold; I’m best seen in the south, a celestial sight—what am I, lighting up the New Zealand night?

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2 hours ago

No gift? No stress

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2 days ago

Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!

Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?

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Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
  • 79.3% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
    79.3% Complete
  • 20.7% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
    20.7% Complete
560 votes