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Exciting News: Magellanic Penguin Chicks at Kobe Suma Sea World

Kobe Suma Sea World, managed by Granvista Hotel & Resort, has just welcomed a delightful event—the birth of Magellanic penguin chicks! This remarkable occurrence took place between April and May 2026, marking an exciting time for both the animals and the visitors who come to witness their growth.

Picture this: five adorable penguin chicks have successfully hatched and are currently under the watchful eye of their parent birds. As of June 8, 2026, approximately one month after their hatching, these little ones have started to venture out of their nesting area, allowing visitors to enjoy their charming antics.

The fascinating journey of these chicks does not stop here. By around three months of age, they will grow to the same size as their adult counterparts and will even start feasting on fish provided by their caretakers. One interesting detail about these chicks is their fluffy juvenile feathers, known as “down,” which will shed over time. For the first year, they will lack the distinctive two black lines on their chests, making it easy to distinguish them from the adults.

Kobe Suma Sea World's management prioritizes the health and well-being of these penguin chicks, which may lead to occasional restrictions on public viewing. However, the staff warmly encourages visitors to kindly observe and support the healthy growth of the Magellanic penguin chicks during their visit.

Where to Spot the Chicks

The delightful Magellanic penguin chicks are currently showcased on the fourth floor of the Aqua Live area, specifically in the Rocky Life exhibit. The chicks rely on their parents for nourishment, eagerly waiting for the regurgitated food that the parent birds provide. Visitors might even hear the lively chirps of the chicks as they request food from their parents. As the days go by, these chicks are getting bolder, often stepping out into the surrounding area, much to the delight of visitors who come to see them.

Please note that there may be instances where viewing of the chicks is restricted depending on their health conditions.

Understanding Magellanic Penguins

Magellanic penguins, scientifically known as Spheniscus magellanicus, are fascinating creatures native to the coastal regions of South America, particularly in Chile and Argentina, and around the Falkland Islands. These penguins measure about 70 centimeters in length and are identified by their classic black and white coloration, with two distinctive black lines across their chest. In captivity in Japan, the breeding season for these penguins generally follows the spring months, typically beginning in February when they collect small stones and twigs to build their nests.

Typically, two eggs are laid between March and April, and both parents take turns incubating them for about 40 days until they hatch. Initially, the chicks emerge covered in down feathers, but as they grow, these will gradually fall away, and for the first year, their lack of the iconic black lines on their chests will help differentiate them from the adults.

About Granvista Hotel & Resort

Glanvista Hotel & Resort is well-known for its diverse range of properties across Japan, including the historic Sapporo Grand Hotel, recognized as the first western-style hotel in Hokkaido. The company operates several city hotels, business accommodations, hot spring inns, marine leisure facilities, golf courses, and highway restaurants, and emphasizes building strong community relationships. Founded on August 27, 1958, with a capital of 100 million yen, Granvista continues to flourish under the leadership of CEO Yukio Arai.

To learn more about Granvista and its facilities, visit Glanvista’s official website. Additionally, you can keep up with updates through their social media platforms across Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Kobe Suma Sea World isn't just about showing magnificent marine life but is also distinguished by its unique educational experiences where families can learn through engaging and entertaining activities. Stop by; you may just find your new favorite furry friends amongst these cute penguin chicks!