African penguins usually live 10 to 15 years in the wild, but can live much longer in captivity. One such elderly avian is Beach Donkey (yes that’s her name) who at 24 years, she’s old enough she probably watched the Seinfeld finale on TV. In 2020, she was sadly diagnosed with a foot condition called pododermatitis.
Also known as “bumblefoot”, this is a common condition for penguins and can lead to infection if not helped. But after two years of specialized care from the staff at the New England Aquarium, she is now doing great! She’s had hands-on foot treatments, medication, and then surgery.
And to help her recover from surgery, she got fitted with a custom pair of kicks to help with large calluses on her feet.
As a treat to get her used to her brand new shoes, she’s been touring the aquarium to visit other animals, as well as humans in the staff offices. The tough bird went through a second surgery and her bumblefoot is now cured!
For another flightlessly feathered story, check out: Fishflation – Penguins at Japanese aquarium refuse to eat cheaper fish.