Penguins play name game at zoo
WEST AKRON — The Akron Zoo’s four Humboldt penguin chicks were named Aug. 21 thanks to a fishy game planned by zoo staff.
The zoo solicited suggestions from the public for names for the chicks, who were born at the zoo in the spring. Zoo officials said the contest resulted in 646 entries from as far away as the United Kingdom. Zoo staff narrowed the list down to 16 names.
During the naming event this week, the zoo’s adult penguins were chosen to pick four names from a bucket containing paper fish with the names written on them.
Shown at far left, Vicki Croisant, wild animal keeper, helps an adult penguin choose the name Guapo for one of the chicks.
One of the other names chosen was Aletta, and she is shown happily swimming above. The other two names chosen were Fausto and Poquita.
Most of the names suggested have their roots in South America, the native continent of the Humboldt penguins.
Two of the adult penguins play, as shown at near right, right before the naming ceremony.
The chicks join 19 adult penguins that are at the zoo.
— By Kathleen Folkerth
Photos: Ken Crisafi
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