Gay penguin dies in Australia – leaving behind his beloved partner
Sydney penguin Sphen, whose same-sex love story made him and his partner Magic symbols of equality around the world, has died.
The couple rose to fame in 2018 when news of their same-sex relationship with a man at a Sydney aquarium made headlines worldwide.
The adorable and loyal duo recently celebrated their six-year anniversary, successfully adopting and raising two chicks: Sphengic (Lara) in 2018 and Clancy in 2020.
The SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium said in a statement on Thursday that the couple had more than just a beautiful love story; their impact worldwide as a symbol of equality was immeasurable.
Their love story inspired a Mardi Gras float, was included in the NSW education program and was even featured in the Netflix series Atypical.
According to the aquarium, numerous books have been published about their love story and there have even been documentaries about same-sex animal couples that feature Sphen and Magic.
βThe loss of Sphen is heartbreaking for the penguin colony, the team and everyone who has been inspired or positively impacted by the story of Sphen and Magic,β Richard Dilly, the aquarium’s general manager, said Thursday.
“We want to take this opportunity to reflect on and honor Sphen’s life, remember what an icon he was, the unique connection he had to Magic, and the positive impact he had on the world.”
Sydney Gentoo penguin Sphen (left) has died at the age of 11, leaving behind his partner Magic
It appears that Sphen died of natural causes in August, just before his twelfth birthday.
His younger partner, aged eight, was brought in to help him cope with the loss and understand that his partner would not be coming back.
βHe immediately began singing, which was beautifully responded to by the colony,β the aquarium said.
Aquarium staff said their focus was on the well-being of Magic, who is heading into his first breeding season without his mate.