Meet Pesto, The Massive Baby Penguin Who Weighs More Than His Parents Combined!

September 20, 2024

A giant king penguin chick named Pesto has captured hearts worldwide, becoming a social media sensation and the star attraction at Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium.

Pesto baby penguin
Pesto the baby penguin / Seal Life Melbourne Aquarium

At just nine months old, Pesto weighs an impressive 49 pounds—making him the heaviest penguin chick the aquarium has ever seen, and he weighs as much as both his parents combined!

Pesto's fame has grown alongside his size, with more than 1.9 billion people worldwide viewing his adorable antics on social media, according to a statement from the aquarium.

@sealifemelbourneaquarium
Our baby King Penguin Pesto is a...
♬ original sound - SEA LIFE Melbourne

But is there any concern about his hefty size? Not at all, says Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium education supervisor Jacinta Early.

“He’s going to start losing that really adorable baby fluff. It might take him one to two months to really get rid of it. Then he’ll be nice and sleek and streamlined.”

@sealifemelbourneaquarium From one icon to another—@katyperry come meet Pesto. 🐧💃 Catch this VIP (Very Important Penguin) at SEA LIFE Melbourne 🎶 #lifetimes ♬ original sound - SEA LIFE Melbourne

For now, Pesto is enjoying his time in the spotlight, captivating visitors and internet users alike with his fluffy, oversized appearance.

As he sheds his downy coat and matures, Pesto is sure to remain a fan favorite, but for now, this giant chick is waddling his way into the hearts of millions.