World’s smallest penguins arrive on the Costa del Sol, the only place to see them in Spain

Usually the Costa Del Sol is associated with enjoying warm sea breezes, golden beaches, and palm trees, but local marine life lovers now have a delightful surprise waiting for them in Benalmadena. Thirteen adorable blue penguins, famously known as little penguins or fairy penguins (Eudyptula minor) have safely arrived at Sea Life Benalmadena. Standing at just 33 centimetres tall, these feathered treasures are officially the smallest penguin species on Earth.

A special journey from Dorset to sunny Benalmadena

Sea Life Weymouth in Dorset, England, housed this colony as part of an international breeding initiative. Relocating these delicate creatures involved careful health check-ups in the UK, including screening for avian flu and Newcastle disease. Custom-built transport containers equipped with full ventilation guaranteed a smooth journey to their new coastal residence.

Unlike Antarctica’s icy residents, these blue birds originate from the mild, temperate coastal waters of New Zealand and southern Australia. Mild Andalucian temperatures match their natural requirements wonderfully, creating an optimal setting for their ongoing conservation programme.

Inside the brand new Blue Penguin Island

A custom-designed environment named Isla del Pingüino Azul (Blue Penguin Island) now welcomes the colony. Taking inspiration from rocky New Zealand shorelines, aquarists constructed a habitat featuring both swimming areas and land space. Two spacious group caves give the flock room to socialise, while seven smaller nesting spots offer privacy during breeding seasons.

Elizabeth Zorat, General Director of Sea Life Benalmadena, expressed immense joy regarding the arrival, noting how thrilling this new habitat will be for visitors. Through close partnership with the Weymouth aquarium team, staff members aim to raise awareness about marine conservation, plastic pollution, and eco-system protection. According to the centre, their arrival makes Benalmadena the only location across the entire Spanish territory where people can see these incredible aquatic birds up close.

Why families will adore these tiny ocean swimmers

Distinctive blue-tinted feathers and charming behaviours give these unique creatures an undeniable appeal. Dining mainly on small fish like sardines and herring, they are nimble swimmers well adapted to temperate coastal waters. Local families and expats fancying a day out can visit Benalmadena marina to welcome these delightful new neighbours to the coast.

Head to the Sea Life Benalmadena website for more information.