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- Australian penguin Sphen, half of famed same-sex couple, dies at 11 years old
Australian penguin Sphen, half of famed same-sex couple, dies at 11 years old
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Sphen, a 11-year-old gentoo penguin, passed away at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, leaving behind his partner Magic. The couple, who were a same-sex pair, gained international attention in 2018 for building a nest together and raising two chicks, Lara and Clancy. Sphen was the elder partner in the relationship, and his death was met with an outpouring of support from the aquarium staff and the public. To help Magic cope with the loss, the aquarium staff allowed him to spend time with Sphen's body, and he was even seen singing in response to the colony's songs. The couple's relationship was celebrated by a float in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, and they became gay icons in Australia and beyond.
Sphen and Magic's love story captivated the world and it's been an honor to welcome local and international fans, some of which traveled long distances to see them in real life.
We want to take this opportunity to reflect and celebrate Sphen's life, remembering what an icon he was.
The team's focus is now on Magic, who will soon prepare for his first breeding season without Sphen.
Sphen and Magic shared a bond unlike most other penguin couples – they could even be found together outside of the breeding season, which is unique for gentoo penguins.
The loss of Sphen is heartbreaking to the penguin colony, the team and everyone who has been inspired or positively impacted by Sphen and Magic's story.
I don't think there was a dry eye in the penguin exhibit in that moment.
The moment we showed him (Magic) to Sphen, he started singing, and then the other penguins also joined in, singing with him. So it was very touching.
