Photo from Northside Chronicle archives.

By Ed Skirtich

A lot of educating, preservation and entertainment took place at the Aviary’s Penguin Painting Program Sunday, Oct. 12.

Aviary education trainer Jamie Travitz explained the lifestyle and habitat of penguins in addition to having a penguin actually paint with its feet. Visitors could choose from a wide palette of colors, and the penguins “painted” a one-of-a-kind piece.

The painting activity occurs once a month at the Aviary. The Aviary staff works hard at keeping the penguin activity and exhibit unique.

“The Aviary staff is always trying to find the best way to care for them,” Travitz said.

Travitz explained penguins live in the warm climate areas of Australia, New Zealand, Africa, South America, and Galapagos Island.

When penguins are awake, Travitz mentioned they eat equivalent to 50-60 McDonald’s quarter pounders a day.

Travitz also explained how penguins swim in 40 degree temperature in the ocean.

“When penguins swim in water, they’re camouflaged because other sea

animals will have a hard time seeing them,” he said. “When penguins swim in water, they fly.”

Penguin paintings can be purchased from the event. For more information visit the official website.