5 Penguin Facts Most People Don't Know (A Few Will Surprise You)
Any chance I get to learn something new about animals, I take it. Peak Wildlife Park has been sharing super-informative TikTok videos about their lesser-studied residents, and it's been so much fun to tune in for these little watch-and-learn moments.
@peakwildlifepark Happy World Penguin Day Our Humboldt penguins might not live on ice, and they definitely don't have it easy in the wild. Native to the coasts of Peru and Chile, they rely on the cold Humboldt Current for food, but rising ocean temperatures, overfishing, and habitat disruption are making survival harder. They're currently listed as vulnerable… so they need our help more than ever. Want to make a difference? Choose sustainable seafood Cut down on single-use plastics Support conservation efforts protecting marine life Myths aside, these animals are pretty incredible. helpsafethepenguins animallover
original sound - Peak Wildlife Park - Peak Wildlife Park
In honor of World Penguin Day (April 25, 2026), this clip highlights Humboldt Penguins-and the zookeeper kicks things off by debunking a common myth about how much noise they make. Spoiler: it's a lot. She explains that they're actually very loud animals, and the close-up of a yelling penguin just about sent me over the edge. Think donkey bray, and you're on the right track!
She also points out that, while many people assume penguins live mostly in cold climates, there are actually 17 species, and only five prefer colder environments. The Humboldt Penguins featured in the video are native to Peru and Chile, proving these fascinating birds are a bit more versatile than most people think.
Related: Iceberg Flips in Antarctica and Penguins Got a Ride They Weren't Expecting
"Penguins are strictly monogamous" was the next myth she tackled-and it turns out that's only true for some species. The Humboldt Penguins at Peak Wildlife Park? Let's just say they "aren't always" sticking to that rule.
When it comes to physical features, there are a couple of common misconceptions, too. Many people assume penguins don't have knees (thanks to that iconic waddle) or ears (since you can't see them), but the keeper confirms they absolutely have both. Their ears are just tiny and tucked neatly beneath those sleek feathers.
The Final Penguin Myth Might Surprise You
Can you guess the final myth? It's all about the waddle. While some people think penguins move that way because they aren't built for land, that's not entirely true. The signature waddle actually helps keep them safe. Since they can be a bit clumsy on land, that side-to-side movement helps them stay balanced-especially on cold or slippery surfaces.
And of course, the little guy waddling up behind her in the final scene adds to the video's overall cuteness. It was perfectly timed, to say the least!
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This story was originally published May 13, 2026 at 9:30 AM.