Gay penguin Sphen dies at Sydney Aquarium, with partner Magic ‘singing’ in mourning

Sphen and Magic were a world-famous same-sex penguin couple (Image: Sea Life Sydney)

Sphen, one half of a world-famous same-sex penguin couple, has died aged 11, marking the end of a partnership that captured global attention and became a symbol for equality.

Staff at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium made the decision to euthanise Gentoo penguin Sphen earlier this month due to declining health. An investigation into the cause of his deterioration is currently underway.

Sphen and his partner Magic first gained international recognition in 2018 when their relationship blossomed at the aquarium. The pair successfully fostered two chicks over the years, Sphengic (also known as Lara) in 2018 and Clancy in 2020.

Richard Dilly, general manager at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, said in a statement: “The loss of Sphen is

READ MORE OF THIS POST AT Attitude