Sydney's gay penguin Sphen dies, partner Magic mourns with song
The Sea Life Aquarium in Sydney witnessed a heart-wrenching scene as Magic, a gentoo penguin, and his companions mourned the death of their fellow penguin Sphen. The same-sex love story between Sphen and Magic had previously made them global celebrities. Sphen's death was confirmed by the aquarium on Thursday morning, just before his 12th birthday. The cause of death is believed to be natural.
Sphen and Magic's love story
Renee Howell, a penguin keeper at the aquarium, had closely observed the blossoming romance between Sphen and Magic. She described their impact as a global symbol of equality as "immeasurable." The couple's courtship rituals mirrored those of many species, including humans. Unique to gentoo penguins, they collected and presented pebbles to each other during this phase.
Sphen and Magic's parenting journey
Sphen and Magic gained worldwide attention in 2018 when their same-sex relationship was reported. They had recently marked six years together and had successfully adopted and raised two chicks: Sphengic (Lara) in 2018, and Clancy in 2020. Howell noted that while same-sex partnerships are not uncommon among penguins, what set Sphen and Magic apart was their equal division of parenting responsibilities.
Magic mourns Sphen's death with song
After Sphen's death, the aquarium staff felt it was essential to show Magic that his partner had passed away. In a touching scene, Magic was brought to Sphen in the presence of the entire gentoo colony and all staff members. Upon seeing his deceased partner, Magic began singing — a song that was soon echoed by all the penguins around him.
Magic continues life without Sphen
Following the emotional farewell, Magic became protective of his partner's body. The staff at the aquarium had never witnessed such an event before and were unsure of what the singing signified. As he enters his first breeding season without Sphen, Magic has been seen collecting pebbles for a nest—an encouraging sign that life goes on despite the loss.
