What are the next steps and how are you addressing concerns?

We remain committed to making decisions which are informed by the best available expertise. At the same time, we recognise the importance of listening to a broader range of perspectives. We’ll be doing this by having one-to-one and group conversations with a diverse mix of engaged and active stakeholders. This dialogue is getting underway, and we look forward to engaging with individuals and organisations who share our passion for protecting and celebrating these extraordinary animals. Together, we can ensure that our approach reflects both scientific insight and the values of all of us who care about these penguins, while always being guided by what is best for them.

How long will this process take, and when can we expect an update?

We are looking to progress at pace, but the most important thing is ensuring the process is thorough and considered, allowing us to get to the right outcome. We appreciate your patience and will provide an update when we are able to.

How is Penguin Point designed to meet the Gentoo penguins’ needs and what expertise helped with its creation?

Penguin Point is a purpose-built climate-controlled habitat developed in consultation with veterinary experts and specialists in penguin behaviour and habitat design. It reflects key elements of their natural environment and meets the high standards set by the UK Government’s Standards of Modern Zoo Practice. The habitat maintains a temperature of 7-12°C to mirror the Gentoo penguins’ native climate and incorporates advanced ventilation and filtration systems to ensure clean air and protect their health. The habitat also uses seasonal lighting technology to support natural behaviours such as moulting, nesting and breeding. This collaborative approach ensures that the penguins’ welfare is prioritised and encourages behaviours essential to their wellbeing.

Why can’t you just move the animals to another facility? / Why can’t you move the penguins to an outdoor facility (or into the wild) so they can feel fresh air?

This is a complex issue – and any alternative has to guarantee that the health and wellbeing of these penguins is maintained at a high standard. Penguin Point was carefully designed to reflect important elements of the animals’ natural environment as closely as possible to ensure good health, including climate-controlled temperature and filtered fresh air. These are things that can’t easily be replicated outdoors, creating a potential risk to their health. Introducing these Gentoo penguins into the wild would not be appropriate. They have spent their entire lives in human care, and will be missing many of the important life skills required for survival in the wild, such as hunting for live food and avoidance of predators. In line with the <a id="OWA8a911985-d19f-ef28-7035-ecc798b32267" href="https://iucn.org/resources/publication/guidelines-reintroductions-and-other-conservation-translocations" title="https://iucn.org/resources/publication/guidelines-https://iucn.org/resources/publication/guidelines-reintroductions-and-other-conservation-translocations-and-other-conservation-translocations" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">IUCN reintroduction guidelines, this approach would not be recommended as it would put their lives at risk. However, we recognise that there are some groups and individuals who believe that a different approach is needed. We want to better understand these perspectives, and are interested to hear a range of views and constructive ideas on what could be done differently.

Are the penguins healthy?

Yes. Their behaviour, breeding cycles and health indicators are regularly assessed by experts. The habitat is designed to support their health and wellbeing.

Who monitors the penguins’ health and welfare?

The penguins are cared for daily by a team of experienced aquarists and animal welfare specialists. We also host independent specialist vet visits every two months for routine checks, and we continue to be assessed by independent organisations like Global Humane Society and the International Zoo Veterinary Group.

Why keep penguins in an aquarium at all?

Gentoo penguins at SEA LIFE London Aquarium play a vital role in education and conservation awareness. Their presence sparks vital public awareness of the urgent threats penguins face globally, from the devastating impacts of climate change and overfishing, to the dangers of oil exploration, plastic pollution, and emerging diseases like Avian Influenza. Through these remarkable birds, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the fragile ecosystems we must protect.

What do you do to help animals in the wild?

We collaborate with global organisations to protect seabirds, including rescue, rehabilitation and release of endangered species like the African Penguin. Our aquarists also share expertise in the field to support these efforts. Learn more: SANCCOB Conservation.

Do you have a zoo licence?

SEA LIFE London Aquarium’s Zoo Licence was renewed in April 2025 following a full and comprehensive inspection. The care of these penguins meets all the requirements set out in the UK Government’s Standards of Modern Zoo Practice for Great Britain.

What is the maximum group size for the SEA LIFE London VIP Penguin Experience?

The maximum group size for this experience is two people.

How long does the SEA LIFE London Aquarium VIP Penguin Experience last?

This is a 30-minute unique experience which includes up to 25 minutes inside the penguin habitat

Are there any restrictions on what can be worn during the VIP Penguin Experience?

Guests will be given a pair of SEA LIFE wellies and a coat to wear during the experience. For this activity, you must wear or bring along a pair of socks.

Do I need to book the SEA LIFE London VIP Penguin Experience in advance, or can I buy tickets on the day?

The experience needs to be booked online in advance. The experience will last for 30 minutes for up to 2 people. Experience is available at 1pm daily. Subject to availability. Please arrive at the attraction by 12.45 pm to ensure you are ready for your experience. Late arrivals will need to be rescheduled for another date.

Can I take photos during the VIP Penguin Experience?

Photos are not allowed during the experience.

Is the SEA LIFE London VIP Penguin Experience suitable for people with disabilities or mobility issues?

The experience is suitable for individuals with disabilities - however may not be suitable for people with reduced mobility. This is due to the set of stairs that takes guests into the Penguin exhibit.

Are Gift Vouchers available for the SEA LIFE London VIP Penguin Experience?

There is currently no gift voucher available for the VIP Penguin Experience. However, there is a gift voucher available for the Snorkel with Sharks Experience, you can access this here .

How long does the SEA LIFE London Aquarium take?

On average, it will take you 1 to 1.5 hours to enjoy the full experience of SEA LIFE London. However, the experience is mostly self guided so you can set your own pace and decide how long you would like to enjoy our underwater world.

How many species of sea turtle are there?

There are 7 species of sea turtle: Green Sea Turtle, Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Leatherback Sea Turtle, Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle, Olive Ridley Sea Turtle and finally the Flatback Sea Turtle.

Do jellyfish have hearts, brains or blood?

Jellyfish do not have hearts, brains or blood! They have a basic set of nerves in their tentacles and depend on reflexes to respond to stimuli

How many species of jellyfish are there?

There are around 2000 types of known jellyfish, with plenty more waiting to be discovered.

Do penguins have feathers?

Penguins have feathers, just like other birds, although penguin feathers are much shorter and stiffer than most other bird feathers.

Why do penguins moult?

Penguins moult as their new feathers begin to grow on top of their old feathers, and then the old feathers eventually shed.

How often do penguins moult?

Penguins go through an annual "catastrophic" shed, meaning the moult once a year.

When do penguins moult?

Penguins moult once a year and the moulting process usually last for a few weeks. During this time they increase their food intake and body weight, as they prepare to stay on dry land while they shed.

Latest News | SEA LIFE London Aquarium

Thursday 12^th September 2013

Each year, 100 million sharks are slaughtered for their fins – a rate at which they simply cannot survive – and shark charity Bite Back estimate that unless action is taken, 20 species could be extinct by 2017. So last night, a courageous group of 55 cub scouts – all just 8-10 years old – took a stand and staged a ‘sleep-in’ at the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, sleeping with 15 sharks nestled sardine-like in the dark shadows of the massive Shark Reef Encounter display.