This summer, SeaWorld Orlando will become the only place in the Western Hemisphere where visitors can get up close and personal with emperor penguins - the largest and most recognizable penguin species on the planet. Starting June 14, visitors will have the rare opportunity to see these majestic flightless birds in the park's renovated Antarctica Realm.
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HideMembers of SeaWorld's annual pass receive a special treat with exclusive early access to the emperor penguin habitat on June 12 and 13, giving them a sneak preview of these incredible animals before the general opening.
With options starting at just US$ 14 per month, pass holders enjoy exclusive benefits such as unlimited entry to the park, free parking, visitor tickets, invitations to special events and discounts on food and park products.
Originally from the extreme and icy environment of AntarcticaThe emperor penguins are perfectly adapted to the harsh environment. Their dense feathers provide insulation against extreme cold, while their exceptional swimming skills allow them to dive deeper than any other known bird species.
To ensure the penguins' health and comfort, SeaWorld Orlando has improved the Antarctica RealmThe new residents were carefully relocated from SeaWorld San Diego, reducing temperatures to approximately -2°C and replicating Antarctic light cycles to stimulate natural behaviors. The new residents were carefully relocated from SeaWorld San Diego, recognized for pioneering the care and breeding of emperor penguins since the 1980s.
"This is an incredibly rare and exciting opportunity for visitors to meet one of nature's most extraordinary species," said Jon Peterson, president of SeaWorld Orlando. "We are proud to continue SeaWorld's legacy of care and conservation by offering visitors the unique chance to interact with these animals in surprising ways."
To celebrate the arrival of emperor penguins, o SeaWorld Orlando teams up with Creative City Project to launch "Big City Penguins"an eye-catching public art exhibition made up of three large penguin sculptures in downtown Orlando. The installation, available until June 19, encourages locals and tourists to take photos and share them on social media, generating enthusiasm for the park's official debut.
In addition to the sculptures, giant inflatable penguins are part of the latest edition of the "Big City Birds" project. Until June 19, two 4.2-meter adults and a 3-meter chick will be located on the terraces at 60 N. Orange Ave., 55 W. Church Street and 30 S. Orange Ave.
These initiatives aim to raise conservation awareness, reinforce SeaWorld's commitment to the environment and promote Orlando as a vibrant cultural and tourist destination.
SeaWorld San Diego is the world's first zoo to successfully breed emperor penguins outside Antarctica, having hatched and raised more than 20 individuals since 1980, including a chick born in 2023.
They maintain their ongoing commitment to the protection and care of these magnificent birds, holding important certifications from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and recognition as Certified Humane by American Humane. These efforts are essential to preserve the natural habitats and guarantee the future of the species.
SeaWorld Orlando is also committed to the conservation and protection of the animals, applying strict welfare and safety protocols, as well as maintaining modern facilities specifically designed to meet the species' specific needs. Local environmental education and awareness-raising activities are essential for visitors to understand and appreciate the importance of preserving these unique animals.
These initiatives strengthen SeaWorld's reputation as a global leader in animal conservation and environmental education, highlighting its commitment to biodiversity.
The arrival of the emperor penguins at SeaWorld Orlando is promising significantly boost domestic tourismespecially attracting North American families interested in unique and educational experiences. Although it is not usually the main attraction for international tourists, such as Brazilians, this novelty is highly anticipated by American visitors, generating additional demand for local accommodation and services.
The expectation is that thousands of visitors are attracted to the park during the summerThis will strengthen the local economy and increase bookings at hotels and holiday properties. Vacation home owners can expect a significant increase in demand for accommodation, expanding opportunities for tourism-related businesses.
The arrival of the emperor penguins at SeaWorld Orlando represents a significant milestone for tourism, the local economy and environmental conservation, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. This event not only provides unique moments of interaction with wildlife, but also strengthens the commitment to environmental education and preservation, highlighting Orlando as a must-see destination.
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