He’s cheeky, charming, and officially the oldest recorded Little Blue Penguin in Australia – today, Adelaide Zoo’s beloved Gordon is celebrating his 24th birthday.
Gordon’s milestone places him well beyond the average lifespan for his species. In the wild, Little Blue Penguins typically live for around 10 to 12 years, with 15 to 16 years considered a great age in a zoo environment.
At 24, Gordon is now the oldest recorded Little Blue Penguin in Australia, and the second oldest on record in the world.
“Gordon is one of a kind – he’s got a big personality and an even bigger fan club,” said Meg, Keeper at Adelaide Zoo. “Every morning, he’s first to the feed, then he’ll waddle a lap with his partner Cascade and find a cosy corner to relax. He’s earned it!”
Known for his enormous appetite and gentle demeanour, Gordon has become a much-loved figure not just among keepers but across the zoo community.
He’s also played a key role in conservation. Alongside his long-time mate Cascade, Gordon has helped raise chicks as part of the zoo’s successful breeding program – including stepping in as a foster parent when first-time penguin couples need a helping hand.
“They’re a power couple in every sense – nurturing, reliable, and a huge help to the colony,” said Meg.
Now in his golden years, Gordon’s care has become more specialised. The animal care team holds regular health reviews, and his meals are fortified with vitamins to help manage minor age-related conditions such as arthritis and cataracts.
“Even with his age, he’s full of life and surprises us every day,” Meg said. “He’s still got plenty of pep in his paddle.”
To celebrate his big day, the team hosted a fish-themed birthday bash complete with a custom enrichment “cake” made by BEEZA (Behavioural and Environmental Enrichment for Zoo Animals). While Gordon didn’t blow out any candles, he was treated to plenty of his favourite pilchards – and plenty of attention from adoring fans.
Little Blue Penguins are the smallest penguin species in the world, found along southern Australia and New Zealand’s coastlines. Adelaide Zoo is home to a lively colony of 41 penguins, each with their own unique personality, but Gordon holds a special place in the hearts of keepers and visitors alike.
With threats to wild populations including pollution, overfishing, and introduced predators, breeding programs like Adelaide Zoo’s play an important role in securing a future for this iconic coastal species.
Visitors can see Gordon and the rest of the colony daily at Penguin Bay – though fair warning, this 24-year-old superstar tends to steal the spotlight.
