Humboldt Penguins are a protected species. The total population of these penguins is merely 3300 to 12000 from over 1 million in mid-19th century. Their population is declining over the last many years due to human interference with habitat loss and over-fishing being the main cause. They are afforded safeguard under several international wildlife protection laws.

India is bringing six of these Humboldt Penguins to its The Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Byculla Zoo in Mumbai. They are building an artificial habitat for these penguins currently.

1.   If captivated, these social animals will be torn apart from their colonies.

2.   Aquarium and exhibits can never replicate the natural habitat of an animal. The artificial habitat of forced temperatures, painted rocks, imitation water bodies, synthetic enclosures, sharp lighting and not to mention prying eyes and commotion created by hundreds of visitors will be distressing for the penguins. Without their wild habitat, natural light and fresh air, declining health and mental issues that is not uncommon in captive animals and birds, will start to affect these penguins. Keeping any animal in such conditions is downright cruel, much less a creature that is already on the brink of endangerment.

3.   To transport these penguins across the globe is a stressful experience especially for this kind of penguin as they as a species never migrate and they lead sedentary lives.

4.   Mumbai municipal corporation is spending somewhere from Rs.63 to Rs.68 crores for importing these penguins. The Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Byculla Zoo is continually in need of funds, already captive animals in the zoo are kept in pathetic conditions. This money could be used for these animals or for infrastructure of the city which is in constant need of repairs and rebuilding.

5.   In drought hit Mumbai, creating an environment for animals that need numerous gallons of water is nothing but wasteful, especially when farmers in Maharashtra are committing suicide in thousands due to the lack for water for crops. This money could be given to them for recuperation from dearth of funds to survive.

6.   Mumbai reaches temperatures as high as 113 degrees for most part of the year. These penguins cannot survive in this climate.

Bringing them to Mumbai will not only make these social creatures miserable but also due to the climatic and other conditions, these penguins are unlikely to survive. 

Please sign this petition to urge Prime Minister of India and the Chief Minister of Maharashtra to stop the import of these penguins that are already declining in numbers.