Penguin ‘Spneb’ turns 38!
Believed to be the oldest Humboldt’s Penguin in the world!
Cornwall’s coolest birthday girl – Spneb, the legendary Humboldt’s penguin of Paradise Park Wildlife Sanctuary, is sliding into her 38th birthday on 16th April 2026 with more sparkle (and Cornish sardines) than ever. According to global zoo records, she’s is believed to be the oldest Humboldt’s penguin on the planet.
To mark the big day, Keeper Archie crafted an ice cake masterpiece loaded with her favourite treats — Cornish sardines — and decorated with blue food dye for that chic nautical vibe. It was presented to her by Keeper Emma at the morning feeding time and much admired by the crowd.
Keeper Becky Waite confirms that despite being the eldest of the colony, Spneb still has a good appetite, enjoys a good nosey peek out of her nest box, and happily supervises the youngsters like a feathery neighbourhood watch. Her companion ‘Prince’ is 21 years old and should have been born a peacock as he loves to show off.
Below a photo of Spneb and Prince together.
Below: Spneb enjoying a Cornish sardine.
Spneb’s unusual name has an equally unusual origin: it blends the names of the medications that helped her through a tough battle with Aspergillosis back in 2007. After four months of treatment (and a lot of determination), she made a strong recovery.
