Happy World Penguin Day!
Today, we’re shining a light on one of the world’s most charming and resilient birds, the penguin. As much as they make us smile, there’s a more serious side to their story. Conservationists warn that some species could face extinction in the wild as early as 2035 due to rapidly declining populations. It’s a sobering thought, and one that highlights just how important it is to protect these incredible animals before it’s too late.
Why Penguins Matter (and Why We Care)
At Talking Tortoise, penguins hold a particularly special place in our hearts. In fact, when we were in the early days of setting up the business, we even considered calling ourselves ‘Penguin PR’. That idea may have changed, but the affection stuck.
The connection doesn’t end there. Jessica’s father spent time studying penguins in Antarctica, so there’s a strong personal link that’s stayed with us ever since.
That’s why World Penguin Day means more to us than just a date on the calendar. It’s a chance to reflect on what these birds represent and why they’re worth celebrating and protecting and using storytelling to make a difference.
The Great Waddle of Worcester
Last summer, we were thrilled to take part in the Great Waddle of Worcester celebrations. This creative and community-focused art trail featured 80 beautifully designed penguin sculptures across the city, all in support of St Richard’s Hospice.
We loved it so much that we were able to secure one of the one-of-a-kind sculptures. Our ‘Wish Upon a Star’ penguin now lives in our Stratford-upon-Avon office. She’s not just a striking feature but a daily reminder of the power of community spirit and giving back.
Should Attractions Rethink Penguin Pools?
While penguins are undoubtedly a draw for visitors, we believe there’s an important conversation to be had about ethics and practicality.
Our Commercial Director, Martin, recently wrote a blog exploring this topic in depth. He answered why attractions should reconsider investing in penguin pools or zoo animals altogether. While the idea can seem appealing, the significant costs and challenges involved make it a tough venture for many.
In many cases, these setups are not the most sustainable or responsible way to engage the public.
That said, there are plenty of creative alternatives that still deliver memorable, meaningful experiences. A few suggestions we would recommend include:
- Showcasing rare breed farm animals
- Enhancing nature-based experiences
- Improving interactive play spaces for families
These approaches tend to be more inclusive, cost-effective, and easier to maintain. Most importantly, they align better with the growing public interest in ethical and sustainable tourism.
You can read Martin’s full blog post here.
How You Can Support Penguin Conservation
World Penguin Day isn’t just about acknowledging these birds; it’s a call to action. You can make a difference by supporting conservation organisations like WWF or the Global Penguin Society, staying informed about penguin conservation and choosing eco-friendly tourism offerings that respect wildlife and natural habitats.
At Talking Tortoise, we believe in the power of storytelling to create real change. Whether it’s supporting environmental efforts, celebrating local communities, or sharing stories that matter, every action counts.
Written by Natasha Burton.
