| Rating | 5 Penguin |
| Penguin Species | Kings, Gentoos, Macaronis and Rockhoppers (Long Crested) |
| Number of Birds | There are about 60 Kings, maybe as many as 100 Gentoos, around 30 Macaronis and probably 15 to 20 Rockhoppers at Edinburgh. However, as they are very successful at breeding the numbers fluctuate a lot, with many birds being sent to other zoos around the world. |
| Description of Exhibit | There are three open air exhibits at Edinburgh. The main exhibit is
very large about 60 metres by 20 metres about half land and half water.
The water varies in depth up to several metres at one end where there is
a large window for underwater viewing of penguins swimming. There is a
pedestrian bridge over the exhibit so you can get a good view of all parts
of the exhibit. At the top end of the exhibit there is a large area where
the Gentoos breed every year using special concrete nesting rings that
are put out in the spring. The Kings roam all over the exhibit but are
most often seen in the middle areas. The Macaronis tend to congregate in
the lower part of the enclosure. There is a second, nursery enclosure adjacent
to the main exhibit which is used to raise the young birds.
The Rockhoppers have their own enclosure in another part of the zoo. However, at the beginning of the breeding season they are moved (males first followed by the females a week later) to the nursery enclosure to try to encourage them to breed. |
| How to get there | Edinburgh Zoo is situated about 4 miles from Edinburgh City Centre in Corstophine. There is a regular bus from the city along Corstophine Road. The zoo has a large car park for those who wish to drive there. |
