A Humboldt penguin chick at Woodland Park Zoo is making a big splash with her debut swim, and brand new name this week.
Born May 19, the adorable chick is sporting the name CALiente, also affectionately known as “Lil Dumper.” She was named in honor of Cal “Big Dumper” Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners, and it fits this little penguin’s fiery personality. As her keepers explain, CALiente has a bold, spicy energy that sets her apart from the rest of the rookery.
The word caliente means “hot” in Spanish — a nod to the chick’s Peruvian roots (Humboldt penguins are native to coastal Peru and Chile). But it’s also a fitting description for her spunky disposition. Zoo staff say she’s already showing off a strong personality, and her splashy swim debut (check out the video below) proves she’s got some star power.
CALiente is in a league of her own as the 98th Humboldt penguin chick hatched at Woodland Park Zoo since they started hosting the species in 2010. The zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan for Humboldt penguins, a conservation program coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to help protect vulnerable animal populations. Humboldt penguins are considered vulnerable in the wild due to climate change, habitat loss, and overfishing.
Penguin fans can now visit CALiente and her penguin colony at the zoo’s award-winning Humboldt Penguin exhibit, which mimics the rocky coastline of their South American habitat. CALiente’s swim lessons are just beginning, but she’s already looking like a natural in the water.
- Zoo Hours: Woodland Park Zoo is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Don’t miss the video of CALiente’s first swim — it’s a moment every parent can relate to.
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