Walter, a young African penguin at the New York Aquarium, steals hearts by popping bubbles.

According to a social media post from the aquarium, Walter has shown great interest in one of the many enrichment activities his keepers offer: breaking bubbles with his beak. “As African penguins explore the world with their beaks, he will nibble on bubbles to investigate further,” the aquarium writes.

Enrichment activities provide animals in human care (from dogs and cats to larger zoo animals) a creative outlet for physical activity, mental stimulation, and a way to choose how they spend their time. They can include anything from introducing a new object for them to learn about or hiding food and encouraging their natural foraging skills.

The penguin hatched on December 4, 2025, marking the 19th hatching of an African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) at the New York Aquarium. The animals are considered critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). The species, endemic to the coasts of Namibia and South Africa, is threatened by fish shortages, human disturbance and pollution, among other threats. Its projected future population decline is more than 80 percent, with no signs of reversing.

With his love of bubbles and his curiosity, Walter is part of the conservation of his species. The New York Aquarium participates in the SAFE African Penguin Program, an effort by more than 50 zoos to save the African penguin from extinction.

“Combining field conservation, breeding and veterinary care, this venture has had remarkable success; since 2005, the African penguin SSP population has grown by 47% and more than 98% of genetic diversity has been maintained,” according to a previous statement from the aquarium.

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