Malott Family Penguin Encounters Return at Lincoln Park Zoo

Chicago (April 30, 2024) – Returning for the first time since 2019, Lincoln Park Zoo is excited to re-introduce its beloved Malott Family Penguin Encounter. During this ticketed program, guests get the chance to learn about African penguins at Robert & Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove during a personal, guided experience. The program was previously put on hiatus for the safety of the animals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This hourlong experience is led by experts in the zoo’s Learning and Animal Care departments. Malott Family Penguin Encounters consist of three parts: a walkthrough from the guest side of the habitat, a behind-the-scenes educational overview on how best to share space with penguins, and a chance to step into the penguin habitat. Throughout the program, guests will gain insight into how the penguin colony at Lincoln Park Zoo is cared for, along with the important conservation efforts taking place in the species’ native range.

“The African penguin colony here at Lincoln Park Zoo is full of personalities, and it’s always a joy to learn more about them during each encounter,” said Heather Brousalis, Manager of Guest Engagement. “I’m excited to introduce a new audience to this special species and encourage more people to learn about the ways they can take action with us to support wildlife like penguins.”

All Malott Family Penguin Encounters follow Lincoln Park Zoo’s guiding principles for animal wellbeing, ensuring that individual animals have choice and control over their environment. Each penguin has the choice to participate in the program, with animal care staff monitoring their behaviors during each encounter. Guests will be able to use their own devices take photos during the encounter as well.

Tickets for Malott Family Penguin Encounters are on sale now for $80 per person, or $70 per person for zoo members. Up to eight guests can participate in each experience, and guests must be at least six years old. Encounters begin May 17 and run through October 27. They take place Friday-Sunday at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., as well as an available 10 a.m. program Wednesdays and Thursdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

For more information about Malott Family Penguin Encounters and other events at Lincoln Park Zoo, visit lpzoo.org.

About Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.