In Sydney aquarium, regrettably, one member of the globally recognized homosexual penguin duo succumbs to mortality.
In 2018, Sphen gain worldwide recognition when he joined forces with fellow gentoo penguin Magic. The two were frequently spotted frolicking and swimming together prior to breeding season, capturing the hearts of many.
This renowned same-sex penguin duo, affectionately known as "Sphengic," sparked admiration worldwide with their unbreakable bond and touching family dynamic. Together, they nurtured two offspring: Lara, 6, and Clancy, 4.
As a means to help Magic, who was 8 at the time, cope with the unfortunate loss, aquarium staff brought him to meet Sphen. According to Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, they did so "so that he could understand why his partner wouldn’t return."
Upon seeing Sphen, Magic began singing, a heartwarming gesture that was echoed by the entire penguin colony.
Richard Dilly, the aquarium's general manager, shared his sentiments, stating, "The loss of Sphen is devastating to the penguin colony, our team, and everyone inspired by Sphen and Magic's story."
He further expressed, "We wish to remember Sphen's life, honoring his status as an icon."
Gentoo penguins typically live around 12 to 13 years, and Sphen lived a fulfilled life within this lifespan.
Sphen and Magic shared an unbreakable bond, often seen together even during non-breeding seasons, a rarity for their species.
Now, the focus shifts to Magic, who is soon to embark on his first breeding season without Sphen.
This remarkable pair inspired a Mardi Gras float, featured in the Netflix series "Atypical," and is even included in the New South Wales education curriculum. Countless books and movies have also been dedicated to their love story, according to the aquarium.
In 2018, Sphen and Magic became parents when they were entrusted with a "backup" egg, gifted to them by another penguin couple who had laid two eggs.
Although gentoo penguins typically lay two eggs per breeding season, they often lack the resources to successfully hatch and raise two chicks. However, in this instance, the "backup" chick not only survived but thrived. Lara, a delightful 91-gram penguin chick, was born to the doting couple on October 19, 2018. In 2020, Clancy joined the family, making the Sphengic family four strong.
Sphen and Magic are not the only same-sex penguin couple to hatch a successful egg. Couples in New York and Spain have also experienced the joy of parenthood.
Through their fame, Sphen and Magic contributed significantly to raising awareness and funds for critical causes, including conservation, plastic pollution, climate change, and protecting wild penguins, as stated by Sea Life.
Tributes poured in on the aquarium's website, with messages like, "Farewell little one, may you rest peacefully, a marvel to the world you were with your beloved Magic,” penned by Vivienne, and "RIP to a champion," written by Vicki. "Love knows no boundaries" was a common phrase of endearment.
Sphen and Magic's heartwarming story gained international attention, becoming a beacon of love and resilience for penguin couples around the world.
The worldwide recognition of Sphen and Magic's bond inspired numerous organizations in Australia to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality, highlighting that love knows no boundaries even in the animal kingdom.
